Safaricom Ethiopia Customer Base Grows Past Magical 10 Million Mark

Safaricom Ethiopia has reached a major milestone, serving 10 million 90 days active customers across Ethiopia, just four years after receiving its license to operate.

This 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.

Wim Vanhelleputte, Chief Executive Officer of Safaricom Ethiopia said achieving an active customer base of 10 million is a significant milestone that also brings with it great responsibility. “Behind each SIM card there is an individual, a family, a business, and a future,” Vanhelleputte said. “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.”

With over 300 billion ETB (USD 2.27 billion) investment to build a strong telecom and Digital Financial Services infrastructure in the last 4 years, Safaricom reflects on strong performance across commercial and social impact areas.

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The fast 4G network now covers more than half of the population, with 3,141 live sites deployed across more than 150 towns and cities. Customer growth remains strong, with an average of 31,000 new customers joining daily, reflecting the continued relevance and demand for mobile connectivity. Our 90-day active customer base grew to 10 million, while 7.1 million customers actively used mobile data services, with per-user consumption rising to 6.5GB per month, up 53% compared to the previous year.

Safaricom Ethiopia employs 900 direct staff, 97% of whom are Ethiopian. In addition, we have created indirect employment for more than 20,000 people through our sim-selling brand ambassadors, distribution partners, and subcontractors supporting network rollout and customer service.

In addition to network and infrastructure rollout Safaricom allocated more than 100 million ETB to support schools through donations of laptops, routers, and free internet access all over the country. Safaricom continues to stand with communities during times of need providing assistance to fire-affected businesses in Ashewa, landslide victims in Gofa Zone, and earthquake survivors in Afar.  The company also contributed 10 million ETB to the Mekedonia Humanitarian Association.

“This milestone of 10 million customers is more than a number,” the Safaricom Ethiopia CEO said. “It reflects the trust of the Ethiopian people, the collaboration of government and partners, and the dedication of thousands of individuals across the country working toward a shared digital future.”

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