Ethio Telecom Recognized for Digital Transformation Contribution

Ethiopia’s 132-year-old telecommunications operator, Ethio Telecom,  has been recognized for its contribution to the country’s digital transformation during the Stride Ethiopia 2.0 Summit.

The recognition was presented at the summit, organized by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Innovation and Technology, as the country marked five decades of development in science, technology and innovation and reviewed its transition toward a digitally driven economy.

Ethio Telecom’s contribution was highlighted across several areas of Ethiopia’s digital development, including the expansion of telecommunications infrastructure, 4G and 5G network rollout, fibre deployment and international connectivity through the operator’s international gateway.

The summit also highlighted the growing role of digital financial services in Ethiopia’s economy. Ethio Telecom’s telebirr platform was recognized as part of the country’s shift toward more accessible digital financial services and reduced reliance on cash.

Beyond connectivity and payments, the operator’s infrastructure and digital services have supported transformation across sectors including agriculture, education, healthcare, tourism and mining. Its technology capabilities have also contributed to smart-city initiatives and the digitalization of public- and private-sector operations.

Cybersecurity and digital sovereignty were also discussed during the summit, reflecting the growing focus on secure national digital infrastructure as Ethiopia expands its digital economy.

The Stride Ethiopia 2.0 Summit reviewed the country’s five-decade journey in science, technology and innovation while examining its progress in digital development and priorities for the next phase of technological transformation. Several digital platforms with national significance were also unveiled during the programme.

Against this backdrop, Ethio Telecom received recognition for its contribution to the implementation of the Digital Ethiopia 2025 strategy and efforts to accelerate the country’s digital transition.

The recognition comes as Ethiopia moves beyond expanding telecommunications access toward developing the infrastructure, platforms and digital services supporting its Digital Ethiopia 2030 vision.