Safaricom Ethiopia Starts Commercial Operations in Tigray Region

Safaricom announces the launch of commercial operations in Tigray region.  The telecom operator started services in 16 cities with 125 self-built towers and plans to erect 166 additional towers to reach the remaining areas.

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“We have established a regional office in Tigray that has so far created direct employment opportunities for a dozen people, with more recruitment already underway. Thousands of indirect jobs are being generated through partnerships with local companies for distributing airtime, SIM cards, devices, and producing branding materials,” said Safaricom in a statement posted on its website.

Safaricom has also opened five retail stores in Tigray’s capital, Mekelle.

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“Our phased approach ensures we build an independent, state-of-the-art 4G network that is 5G-ready,” added Safaricom.

Safaricom entered the Ethiopian market three years ago and launched operations in October 2022. However, the conflict in northern Ethiopia prevented it from providing telecom services in Tigray Region.

Conflict and unrest in Amhara and Oromia regions continue to pose operational hurdles for Safaricom.