Ethio Telecom deploys AI-powered mobile network technology

Ethio Telecom has partnered with Chinese telecommunications equipment manufacturer ZTE Corporation to deploy Ethiopia's first pre-commercial Artificial Intelligence Radio Access Network (AIR RAN). The deployment, completed on November 4, 2026, aims to improve mobile network capacity and data speeds as demand for connectivity continues to rise. This development is expected to enhance the overall mobile network experience for Ethio Telecom's subscribers.

The deployment has reportedly increased 4G network capacity by 11 percent and improved peak-hour user throughput by 40 percent compared to conventional network solutions. The technology introduces artificial intelligence into the radio access network, which connects users' devices to the wider network. This innovation is designed to improve how network resources are allocated, particularly during periods of high traffic.

The project uses ZTE's AIREngine intelligent computing engine, combined with AI-driven intelligent beam scheduling and Frequency Division Duplex (FDD) Massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (Massive MIMO) technology. This system enables the network to respond more intelligently to changing traffic patterns by adjusting the allocation of radio resources to meet demand. The goal is to improve network efficiency and service quality without relying exclusively on additional physical infrastructure.

Ethio Telecom serves more than 90 million subscribers and faces growing demand for mobile internet, digital financial services, cloud-based platforms, and other connectivity-dependent services. Peak-hour network congestion remains a significant challenge for telecommunications operators, particularly in urban areas where thousands of users compete for limited network resources. The reported performance gains could be significant for Ethio Telecom.

The deployment is part of Ethio Telecom's broader strategic ambition to transform itself from a conventional telecommunications operator into an AI-driven digital enterprise. The company said the initiative supports its "Next Horizon: Digital & Beyond 2028" strategy, which focuses on expanding digital services, modernizing telecommunications infrastructure, and strengthening its position in the country's rapidly developing digital economy.

Ethio Telecom and ZTE have been working on AI-enabled network innovation over the past two years, seeking ways to improve the performance of Ethiopia's existing 4G infrastructure as mobile data consumption expands. The two companies believe that this technology can help address the challenges of peak-hour network congestion and improve the overall quality of service.

The successful deployment of AI-powered mobile network technology is expected to have a positive impact on Ethiopia's digital economy. With improved network capacity and data speeds, users can expect a better mobile network experience, which can lead to increased adoption of digital services and economic growth.

Key points

• Ethio Telecom's deployment of AI-powered mobile network technology has increased 4G network capacity by 11 percent and improved peak-hour user throughput by 40 percent.