Ethio Telecom, Ethiopia state-owned mobile provider, launched a 5G network service in Addis Ababa Monday. This puts it ahead of new competitors, particularly in a sector dominated by multinational corporations.
The service will first be offered in the country’s capital, according to Ethio Telecom CEO, Frehiwot Tamru, before expansion to other parts of the country.
Tamru also stated at the launch event that the company plans to provide 150 5G connections around the country in the following year. She, however, did not disclose the cost of deploying the network or how it’s going to be done.
5G – the Ethio Telecom way
Ethio Telecom, with around 64 million users across the country, has chosen Huawei Technologies as its network’s equipment supplier.
Prior to this, the Ethiopian government began a tendering procedure June last year to sell a 40% stake in Ethio Telecom to private investors. However, the plan was postponed to March this year due to a variety of factors, including the domestic and global economic climate.
Ethio Telecom, is a telecommunication company owned by the Ethiopian government. Hybrid SIM account, mobile broadband, VPN service and mobile services are just some of the options available.
It also provides international data services in collaboration with MTN Group – SA, CMC, PCCW, China Telecom, Telecom Italia, US Embassy, AU, UNECA, etc.
What is 5G network service
The fifth generation of wireless technology is known as 5G. It is one of the world’s fastest and most reliable technologies. It can deliver faster data rates, lower latency, and more capacity 20 times faster than the 4G LTE networks.
This means faster downloads, which will play a significant role on how we live.
Websites will load in milliseconds, and videos will download in seconds.
It is also crucial for developing technologies such as self-driving cars and smart device communication and interconnectivity.
5G network service in Africa
There are five nations in Sub-Saharan Africa where 5G is already active, including Togo as the first, Kenya, Madagascar, Seychelles, and South Africa. Nigeria, Mali, Ethiopia, and Mauritius are among the countries that are heading toward 5G deployment.
With the growth of Africa’s tech ecosystem, 5G network features such as low latency and high device density will open up new prospects for tech startups and entrepreneurs, while 5G network coverage will enable digital connectivity for individuals. Businesses can now be run online without being hampered by sluggish internet speeds or other factors.
In addition, 5G network will aid Africa’s Fourth Industrial Revolution. African government’s are hopeful that the continent’s economy would become more efficient and productive.
With 5G, high-speed networks, artificial intelligence, and the internet of things (IoT) will be fused, enabling new and existing technologies transform industrial processes.
Manufacturing, agriculture, financial, healthcare, financial services, and entertainment are among the industries that could gain from 5G-enabled disruptive technology.
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