Grace Ashiru
Safaricom Ethiopia, a telecommunications operator, has announced the receipt of the first batch of 13 telecom towers produced locally by Woda plc, the country’s pioneering firm in manufacturing network towers. This acquisition is aimed at upgrading and expanding Safaricom Ethiopia’s network infrastructure.
According to the telecom provider, Woda plc is set to deliver a total of 68 superior towers for a sum of 50 million birr, equivalent to approximately $870,000.
This development comes on the heels of Safaricom Ethiopia’s announcement a month ago regarding a $1.5 billion plan to construct 5,000 new towers over the next three years. This ambitious project aims to enhance network infrastructure and provide reliable, high-quality telecommunications services nationwide.
Currently, Safaricom Ethiopia operates around 2,800 towers, with two-thirds of them being leased and the remaining third being self-built.
By January 1, 2024, Ethiopia will have 24.83 million Internet users, representing 19.4% of the country’s total population of a little over 129 million people.
The telecommunications company emphasized its commitment to supporting local industries and advancing Ethiopia’s economic development, stating that this progress is crucial to providing all Ethiopians with reliable and accessible telecom services.
“The quality of their towers is excellent; their galvanization plant is the largest in Africa, and their cost-effectiveness will allow us to expand our network more efficiently and effectively. This collaboration not only supports our operational goals but also contributes to making manufacturing in Ethiopia the standard for Africa,” said Wim Vanhelleputte, CEO of Safaricom Ethiopia.
According to Woda CEO Steven Cui, they are the first local business to supply telecom towers to Safaricom Ethiopia. He emphasized that the company is committed to maintaining the highest standards of reliability and quality in its services.
The telecom company announced that the network expansion would enhance coverage and capacity, providing individuals and businesses with access to advanced mobile and digital finance services and improving connectivity. This announcement came when they revealed their intention to invest in new towers in April 2024. The company’s dedication to improving and expanding its services has solidified its reputation as a leader in the industry.
