Safaricom Ethiopia plans to commence their services in Ethiopia starting from Dire Dawa from August 2022. This will be followed by it being launched in 24 other cities across Ethiopia.
In July, 2021 Safaricom was granted a license to commence offering telecommunication services in Ethiopia.
The launch of the company’s network will take place until April 2023.
“Currently, we are in a testing period to ensure that when we switch on, we will deliver a quality experience for Ethiopians. We are working to fulfill our commitment to building the long-term foundations for our contribution to Ethiopia’s digital transformation,” said Matthew Harrison-Harvey, Chief External Affairs and Regulatory Officer.
Safaricom has invested $1 billion including on Telecom license fee and imported equipment valued at over $300 million in order to establish their core network and provide services in Ethiopia. The company has built two data centers and has recruited employees in readiness for the launch across the country.
“We Invested in our network and building infrastructure, including our own mobile radio towers’ national transmission network and wholesale agreements for international connectivity.”
Safaricom has been well received in Ethiopia according to a statement released by the company.
“Safaricom Ethiopia thanks Ethiopian citizens, the Government, the Ethiopian Communications Authority, and all stakeholders for the continued support as we prepare for commercial launch.”
Safaricom has so far signed agreements for infrastructure sharing as well as for interconnection. The Chief External Affairs and Regulatory Officer praised this as a win-win scenario.
Safaricom Ethiopia is waiting for approval before they set up their mobile money services (MPESA). They are working closely with National Bank of Ethiopia on this matter.
Safaricom Ethiopia will also provide internet, call, voice and text services.
Safaricom Ethiopia is the first private telecom operator in the country. The firm has so far recruited 500 staff out of which 320 are Ethiopians. They will continue with the recruitment drive across Ethiopia.
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