Ethio Telecom reported a pre-tax profit of $550 million, an 80% increase from last year, which shows the growing digital potential in Africa. With a strategic push in network expansion and digital adoption, the state-owned Ethiopian operator was able to increase total revenue by 73%.
After adding over 1,600 mobile sites, extending 4G to hundreds of new locations and introducing 5G in multiple cities, they expanded digital access and recorded a total of about 83 million subscribers. This goes to show that when infrastructure meets local demand, digital growth will increase.
The presence of Telebirr, Ethio Telecom’s mobile money payment platform, enabled the efficient service of more than 54 million users. For many, especially in underserved regions, it offers access to banking, savings, and everyday transactions, further embedding mobile money into daily life.
However, the company’s partial IPO, restricted to local investors, sold only 10.7% of available shares. This reflects deeper issues in public awareness, trust, and access to Ethiopia’s developing capital market.
Still, Ethio Telecom’s success shows how telecommunications can drive economic inclusion by emphasising the importance of reaching rural areas, developing digital payment systems, and investing in state-led infrastructure. For businesses and investors, Ethiopia offers untapped opportunities, especially in fintech, e-commerce, and digital services.
As African countries advance with their digital agendas, Ethio Telecom’s case highlights the need for a blend of policy, infrastructure, and innovation. Ethio Telecom’s growth is both a national achievement and a signal for the continent. Africa’s digital economy is progressing, and now is the time to focus on it, supported by research and local expertise.
