Internet

Safaricom expands network, supports communities

Person holding globe symbolizing global connectivity and technology

Safaricom Ethiopia expands network to Assosa, introducing M-PESA and donating laptops and routers to schools, enhancing connectivity and education. (Image source: Adobe Stock)

Safaricom Ethiopia has extended its network to Assosa, marking a significant step in its mission to deliver reliable and high-quality connectivity across Ethiopia

In the past two weeks, the company has launched services in several key cities in Western Ethiopia, including Nekemte, Gambella, Metu, and Bedele. The Assosa launch further strengthens its presence in the region. Since starting operations in Ethiopia over two years ago, Safaricom has achieved remarkable network coverage, now reaching 50% of the Ethiopian population across Central, Northern, Southern, Eastern, and Western areas.

The rollout of M-PESA digital financial solutions in these areas will provide residents with secure, convenient, and cost-effective ways to manage financial transactions. This initiative reflects Safaricom’s broader mission to support social and economic growth through technological advancement.

To give back to the community, Safaricom has donated 80 laptops, 16 routers, and six months of free unlimited internet to schools in Assosa, Nekemte, Gambella, Metu, and Bedele. This initiative highlights the company’s dedication to combining network expansion with impactful community projects.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to local leaders and government officials, whose support has been instrumental in making these launches possible. Safaricom Ethiopia remains committed to connecting people and fostering development across Ethiopia,” the company stated in its press release.

ZTE, MTN launch 5G-A experience

ZTE and MTN South Africa showcase 5G-A technology with record-breaking speeds, innovative applications, and future-ready advancements. (Image source: ZTE Corporation)

ZTE Corporation, a global leader in integrated ICT solutions, has partnered with MTN South Africa to launch a 5G-A public experience at the MTN Store in V&A Waterfront, Cape Town

The event demonstrated an impressive ultra-download speed of 9.2 Gbps, highlighting MTN's strong position in the South African telecom market.

Innovative 5G-A showcase

The event, attended by hundreds, featured advanced applications such as AI-Generated Content (AIGC), a robotic dog, and nubia's glasses-free 3D tablet with cloud-rendered applications.

ZTE presented the latest in 5G-A technology, achieving 9.2 Gbps download speeds using its next-generation millimeter-wave AAU. This milestone demonstrates the combined technological prowess of ZTE and MTN South Africa in 5G-A advancements.

Operating on an 8-server setup within a 5G Standalone network based on 3GPP Release 18, the system delivered ultra-low latency of 6ms. ZTE also highlighted its space division multiplexing and 5GC end-to-end slicing, enhancing resource efficiency and flexibility.

Advancing 5G-A and digital transformation

5G-A, an evolution of 5G, demonstrates seamless 10 Gbps speeds, integrates AI, and paves the way for smart cities and industries.

Rami Farah, chief techical officer of MTN South Africa, stated, "The 5G-Advanced experience allows us to vividly showcase the potential of next-generation network technologies, from ultra-high speeds to immersive experiences. It's not just a demonstration of technology but a significant step toward connecting future digital lifestyles for South African people."

Luca Shen, CEO of ZTE South Africa, added, "5G-Advanced innovation not only enhances connectivity and experiences but also expands the boundaries of application scenarios and business domains, giving rise to new industries, business models, and ecosystems. These innovations will empower MTN to inject strong momentum into the development of the digital economy and accelerate the realisation of an intelligent, connected future."

Future Plans for 5G-A in South Africa

ZTE and MTN South Africa remain committed to advancing 5G-A network deployment and commercialization. This collaboration aims to propel South Africa’s digital transformation and foster economic growth.

Speed up networks with Siemon’s trunks

Revolutionising network installations, Siemon unveils bundled fibre trunks, combining performance, durability, and ease for faster project delivery. (Image source: Siemon)

Siemon, a leading provider of network infrastructure solutions, has introduced its innovative bundled fibre trunks

These trunks are specifically engineered to simplify fibre optic network installations, offering a cost-efficient and dependable solution that significantly reduces deployment time.

By combining high-performance fibre cables into a single, manageable bundle, these trunks enhance pathway utilisation and enable up to 50% faster installations. This advancement helps organisations cut down on project costs and accelerate time-to-market.

“Siemon bundled fibre trunks are a game-changer for network installations,” stated Tony Walker, Siemon fibre product marketing manager. “By simplifying the process and reducing installation time, we are empowering our customers to achieve their project goals more efficiently and effectively.”

Built with exceptional performance comparable to single-jacket fibre, the trunks also feature durable construction for reliable use. They are available in various configurations to suit diverse project needs.

Transforming Africa’s connectivity with advanced 5G solution

Digital map of Africa, concept of global network and connectivity

UnoTelos, a pioneering telecommunications company in Nigeria, has revealed an exciting strategic partnership with Niral Networks, a leading provider of Private 5G and Edge AI computing solutions from India

This partnership represents a significant step towards addressing Africa’s connectivity challenges and accelerating digital transformation across the continent.

Can connectivity evolve?

The collaboration between UnoTelos and Niral Networks is built on a shared vision to overcome the persistent infrastructure limitations that have traditionally impeded technological growth in Africa. By combining UnoTelos’ in-depth knowledge of the African market with Niral Networks’ state-of-the-art NiralOS 5G Core and Edge AI technologies, the partnership seeks to deliver secure, low-latency, and scalable connectivity solutions.

“This partnership is more than a technological alliance—it's about empowerment,” stated Jude Egbokwu, founder & CEO of UnoTelos. “We are not just solving connectivity problems; we’re creating opportunities for businesses to innovate, grow, and compete on a global stage.”

Abhijit Chaudhary, founder & CEO of Niral Networks, added, “Our collaboration with UnoTelos represents a pivotal moment in the digital transformation journey across Africa. By integrating Niral Networks' advanced Private 5G and Edge AI technologies with UnoTelos' profound system integration capabilities and market insights, we are not just deploying telecom infrastructure—we are engineering ecosystems for innovation. This partnership is strategically designed to address the continent’s most critical connectivity challenges, enabling industries from mining to oil & gas to leapfrog technological barriers and compete on a global scale.”

The partnership between UnoTelos and Niral Networks will initially focus on pilot projects across key sectors such as mining, oil and gas, manufacturing, shipping, ports, aviation, airports, and logistics. NiralOS’s modular Private 5G and Edge design allows for the customisation of solutions to meet the unique needs of each industry, ensuring efficient and targeted deployments.

By adopting NiralOS Private 5G and Edge, UnoTelos is positioning itself as a leader in telecommunications, providing Nigerian enterprises with advanced connectivity solutions that were previously unavailable or unaffordable. Key benefits of this technology include secure private networks, low-latency communication, scalable edge computing, and tailored industry-specific solutions.

The partnership is expected to drive digital transformation across industries, with applications such as smart factory solutions, remote operations, and IoT systems that can enhance operational efficiency and global competitiveness. Looking forward, UnoTelos and Niral Networks plan to expand deployments, develop more advanced solutions, and support emerging sectors like telemedicine and autonomous systems.

Nekemte goes digital with Safaricom

Wim Vanhelleputte, CEO of Safaricom Ethiopia, at the launch ceremony. (Image source: CIO Africa)

Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia PLC has expanded its network to Nekemte City, taking another significant step in its mission to deliver reliable 4G connectivity across Ethiopia

This launch in western Ethiopia follows closely after its recent network deployment in the Somali Region.

Nekemte’s digital leap

The Nekemte expansion introduces 32 advanced towers and a strong fiber backbone, improving connectivity for local residents and businesses. Alongside the network rollout, Safaricom has launched M-PESA digital financial services in the region, aiming to drive economic opportunities. Additionally, five new distributor shops have already generated 250 jobs, bolstering the local economy.

“The expansion of our network to the vibrant city of Nekemte marks a crucial step in rolling out our services to Western Ethiopia. Following our extensive growth in East Ethiopia, Nekemte represents a new chapter in our mission of connecting all of Ethiopia. With our fast 4G connectivity and M-PESA digital financial services, we aim to empower residents and foster new opportunities in this region,” said Wim Vanhelleputte, CEO of Safaricom Ethiopia, during the launch ceremony.

As part of its community development efforts, Safaricom Ethiopia is donating 20 laptops and four Wi-Fi routers with six months of free unlimited internet to two high schools in Nekemte, a contribution valued at USD 8,041 (one million birr).

The Mayor of Nekemte, His Excellency Misganu Tulu, acknowledged the initiative’s positive impact, “Our community has faced telecom connectivity challenges over the past few years, which has hindered business and daily life. Safaricom Ethiopia’s presence will significantly improve access to reliable telecom services, creating a foundation for economic growth and new opportunities in Nekemte.”

Prior to Nekemte, Safaricom expanded its network to the Somali Region, bringing dependable coverage to towns like Gode, Kebridehar, and Degehabur. These advancements demonstrate the company’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and supporting communities throughout Ethiopia.

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