MWC26: Ethio Telecom CEO calls for affordable infrastructure to drive Africa’s Digital Inclusion
Date: 2026-03-04
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Ethio Telecom’s Chief Executive Officer, Frehiwot Tamru, has shared insights on
Africa’s digital inclusion agenda during a high-level ministerial panel
discussion at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2026 in Barcelona. The session,
themed “Breaking the Cost Barrier,” brought together global policymakers and
industry leaders to address the challenges of expanding access to digital
services.
Tamru
stated that accessible and affordable telecommunications infrastructure is
fundamental to bridging the digital usage gap and achieving Africa’s digital
transformation goals. She noted that sustained network expansion combined with
affordability measures is essential to ensure citizens can meaningfully
participate in the digital economy.
She
emphasized that digital inclusion requires a holistic approach, highlighting
Ethio telecom’s efforts to implement innovative smartphone financing schemes
aimed at increasing device accessibility and narrowing usage gaps.
Tamru
also referenced the company’s “Next Horizon: Digital and Beyond 2028” strategy,
under which Ethio telecom is integrating artificial intelligence-driven
ecosystems and strengthening its digital infrastructure to align with global
technology trends.
In
her remarks, she called for strong policy support and enhanced multilateral
cooperation to sustain growth and unlock new digital opportunities for Ethiopia
and the wider African continent.
