Safaricom Ethiopia has crossed 15 million active subscribers, marking a major milestone in its expansion. The telecom operator is also approaching financial break-even, five years after receiving its full-service licence.
The company received the licence from the Ethiopian government on July 9, 2021. However, it began commercial operations in October 2022 and has since expanded its network across the country.
Safaricom Ethiopia now has more than 3,500 network sites, which cover about 60% of Ethiopia’s population. The sites are 4G-enabled and 5G-ready, while the network continues to reach smaller towns and communities.
The subscriber growth comes as Ethiopia’s telecom sector undergoes liberalisation. Safaricom said this has expanded connectivity and accelerated digitalisation.
The changes have also supported the growth of digital payments and internet use. At the same time, internet speeds and data consumption have increased over the past five years.
The company’s growing customer base is also being supported by continued network expansion. As revenues and subscriber numbers rise, Safaricom Ethiopia is moving closer to financial break-even.
Beyond its commercial operations, the company has also invested in community development. Safaricom Ethiopia has committed ETB139 million directly to community development and support.
Its shareholders and partners have contributed a further ETB545 million. Therefore, total community investment has reached ETB684 million during the company’s first four years of operations.
The milestone comes as Safaricom continues to strengthen its position in Ethiopia’s growing telecommunications market. With more customers coming onto the network, the company is also expanding access to digital services across the country.