Safaricom Ethiopia Engages Government on Network Expansion and Digital Transformation

Safaricom Ethiopia  has engaged Ethiopia’s Ministry of Innovation and Technology  on the country’s digital transformation agenda and opportunities to accelerate the development of the digital economy.

A delegation led by Safaricom Ethiopia CEO Wim Vanhelleputte met with Minister of Innovation and Technology H.E. Belete Molla (PhD) to discuss the company’s contribution to Ethiopia’s digital transformation and its plans for the years ahead.

During the meeting, Vanhelleputte highlighted Safaricom Ethiopia’s five-year journey in the country, including reaching 15 million 90-day active customers and expanding its network to more than 3,600 sites. He also pointed to the company’s efforts to develop local talent and support the objectives of the government’s Digital Ethiopia 2030 strategy.

The CEO also raised infrastructure and supply-chain challenges affecting network expansion. These include the timely clearance of telecommunications equipment, fibre cables and other essential materials required to accelerate the rollout of network infrastructure.

Minister Belete Molla welcomed Safaricom Ethiopia’s contribution to the country’s digital transformation, particularly its achievement of reaching 15 million active customers within five years. He said the milestone demonstrated strong confidence in Ethiopia and could send a positive signal to other potential investors.

The Minister also acknowledged Safaricom’s broader contribution to Ethiopia’s digital transformation and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to continued collaboration with the operator as the country works towards the Digital Ethiopia 2030 objectives.

The engagement highlighted the role of public-private collaboration in addressing infrastructure challenges, expanding connectivity and supporting Ethiopia’s transition towards a more connected digital economy.