Ethio Telecom, China’s Inspur in Talks Over Digital Infrastructure Deal

Ethio Telecom is preparing to establish a strategic partnership with Chinese technology company Inspur Software Technology.

The proposed deal is aimed at accelerating Ethiopia’s digital transformation and expanding advanced digital infrastructure in the country.

It emerged from high-level talks between Ethio Telecom Chief Executive Officer Frehiwot Tamru, Inspur Software Technology Board Chairman Lin Shuai, and Gao Xinjie, Deputy General Manager of Shandong Hi-Speed Road & Bridge International Engineering.

The talks centred on building a long-term partnership aligned with Ethio Telecom’s “Next Horizon” strategy, which seeks to advance the country’s digital development through next-generation technologies and infrastructure.

If finalised, the partnership will focus on deploying digital infrastructure to support Ethiopia’s growing digital demands.

Areas of cooperation under discussion include high-performance computing, AI-ready data centres, cloud computing platforms and intelligent digital infrastructure.

The two sides are also exploring localised digital applications and sector-specific technology solutions tailored to Ethiopia’s market.

The collaboration is expected to extend to artificial intelligence computing infrastructure, enterprise digital transformation, cloud services, smart industry solutions, research and innovation, technology transfers and digital skills development.

Ethio Telecom said the initiative is intended to strengthen the country’s digital ecosystem by integrating advanced technologies with infrastructure development.

The company said the collaboration would contribute to a more resilient, future-ready digital economy while supporting broader national development priorities.

The discussions also considered opportunities beyond Ethiopia, with both parties expressing interest in jointly pursuing digital transformation projects across African markets.

Representatives from Inspur Software Technology and Shandong Hi-Speed Road & Bridge International Engineering acknowledged Ethio Telecom’s evolution from a conventional telecom operator into a leading digital service provider in Africa.

Tamru has directed technical teams from both sides to accelerate preparation of a detailed cooperation framework and implementation roadmap.

The framework is expected to form the basis for executive-level engagements to formalise the partnership and initiate the rollout of agreed projects.

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