Ericsson has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s digital transformation through sustained investment in telecommunications infrastructure, expanded connectivity, skills development and strategic partnerships, as the country advances its digital economy ambitions.
Patrick Johansson, President, Market Area Europe, Middle East and Africa at Ericsson, made this known following a recent visit to Addis Ababa, where he engaged with customers, government stakeholders, the Swedish Embassy, Business Sweden and other key players in Ethiopia’s digital ecosystem.
Johansson described Ethiopia as entering a significant phase in its digital development, noting that strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure, broadening access to connectivity and developing local capabilities would be essential to sustaining its economic and technological progress.
“Ethiopia is entering an important phase in its digital development. The ambition is clear: strengthen the infrastructure supporting the digital economy, extend the benefits of connectivity more widely, and build the skills and capabilities that will sustain progress over time,” he said.
Highlighting Ericsson’s longstanding relationship with Ethiopia, Johansson noted that the company’s presence in the country spans more than 130 years, reflecting its contribution to successive generations of communications technology.
He explained that the historical relationship provides a strong foundation for the company’s continued engagement, particularly as Ethiopia prioritises telecommunications network modernisation, improved coverage, increased capacity and enhanced network performance.
“Today, the focus is on continuing to modernise and expand networks, improving coverage, capacity and performance, and creating the foundations for Ethiopia’s continued digital transformation,” Johansson stated.
The visit also coincided with the celebration of 80 years of diplomatic relations between Sweden and Ethiopia, alongside Ericsson’s 150th anniversary. Johansson joined Sweden’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, H.E. Magnus Lennartsson, and other dignitaries in Addis Ababa to commemorate the diplomatic milestone.
According to him, discussions held during the visit reinforced the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in accelerating Ethiopia’s digital ambitions.
He emphasised that long-term investment, technical skills, trusted partnerships and secure, resilient digital infrastructure would be critical to enabling the development of new digital services and economic opportunities.
Johansson also acknowledged the contributions of Ericsson’s local workforce, noting that engagements with employees provided valuable insights into the evolving market landscape and emerging opportunities.
“I also appreciated the chance to spend time with our Ericsson colleagues in Ethiopia and hear directly from them about how the market is evolving. That local perspective is invaluable in understanding both the opportunities ahead and what it will take to turn them into progress,” he said.
He further stressed that reliable, high-performing connectivity would become increasingly important as Ethiopia expands its digital economy, positioning telecommunications infrastructure as a critical enabler of innovation, economic competitiveness and inclusive development.
Reaffirming Ericsson’s commitment to the country, Johansson said the company would continue leveraging its technology, global experience and local presence to support Ethiopia in developing the infrastructure and capabilities required for its next phase of digital growth.
“We remain committed to contributing our technology, experience and local presence, helping the country build the infrastructure and capabilities for what comes next,” he added.
