Hiiraan Online

JIGJIGA, Ethiopia (HOL) — Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia PLC is expanding its network services and launching social initiatives in the Somali region with support from the local administration.

In a recent meeting in Jigjiga, Wim Vanhelleputte, CEO of Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia PLC, discussed the expansion plans with Ibrahim Ousman Farah, Vice-President of the Somali Regional State. The discussions focused on the rollout of additional network sites to improve coverage across the Somali region. Farah assured full support for these efforts.

Jigjiga, the capital of the Somali region, is Ethiopia's leading mobile money city. Safaricom's expansion is expected to boost economic activities and financial inclusion through enhanced mobile money services.

The expansion is part of Safaricom's broader strategy to enhance its presence across Ethiopia. The company has already launched operations in various cities, including Tigray and Haromaya, despite initial delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and logistical challenges. 

Safaricom is the first private operator in Ethiopia's previously state-monopolized telecom market.

In Tigray, Safaricom is building a 4G network, upgradeable to 5G, with support from the Interim Regional Government.

Safaricom and the Somali region's government are also collaborating on initiatives to boost high school digital literacy and ICT education, aiming to equip the youth with essential digital skills.

The expansion into the Somali region is also expected to address the digital divide by providing more residents with access to reliable mobile and internet services. This move aligns with Safaricom's goal of fostering inclusive growth and digital inclusion across Ethiopia.