Safaricom Ethiopia Hits 10 Million Active Customers


Safaricom Ethiopia has announced a major milestone, reaching 10 million active customers within just four years of receiving its operating license. 

According to the telco, the figure is based on users active over the past 90 days.

Safaricom Ethiopia said in a statement that this milestone marks a significant step forward in the company’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s digital transformation by building inclusive, high-quality mobile connectivity that empowers everyone, everywhere, and all the time.

“Achieving an active customer base of 10 million is a significant milestone for us, but it also brings with it great responsibility,” said Wim Vanhelleputte, CEO of Safaricom Ethiopia. ”Behind each SIM card, there is an individual, a family, a business, and a future. Our mission is to serve, enable, and support Ethiopia’s development through world-class connectivity and innovation.”

‘’Our mission is to serve, enable, and support Ethiopia’s development through world-class connectivity and innovation. We are proud of our accomplishments and remain committed to further connecting people, creating opportunities, and contributing to a truly Digital Ethiopia.” 

Since launching operations, Safaricom Ethiopia has invested more than 300 billion Ethiopian birr (approximately USD 2.27 billion) to develop robust telecommunications and digital financial services infrastructure. The company’s fast-growing 4G network now covers over half of Ethiopia’s population, with more than 3,140 live network sites deployed in over 150 towns and cities nationwide.

Customer adoption also continues to grow at a steady pace, with an average of 31,000 new users joining the network daily. Of the 10 million active customers, 7.1 million are active mobile data users. Per-user data consumption has risen sharply, averaging 6.5GB per month, a 53% increase from the previous year.

This success, the company says, is powered by people. Safaricom Ethiopia employs 900 direct staff, 97% of whom are Ethiopian nationals. The wider ecosystem has also created over 20,000 indirect jobs through SIM-selling brand ambassadors, distribution networks, and subcontractors involved in network rollout and customer service.

As Safaricom Ethiopia looks ahead, the company reaffirms its commitment to being a reliable, inclusive, and impactful partner in the country’s digital journey.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our customers for choosing Safaricom Ethiopia,” said Vanhelleputte. “We also sincerely thank the Government of Ethiopia, our regulators, and partners whose collaboration and guidance have been instrumental in this journey. Together, we are building a more connected, inclusive, and prosperous Ethiopia.” 

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By Staff Writer

Tracking and reporting on tech and business trends in Kenya and across Africa. Send tips to editorial@techtrendsmedia.co.ke

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