MWC Kigali 2025

Ericsson is advancing Africa's telecommunications landscape by modernizing existing 4G networks and paving the way for 5G Standalone rollouts. These initiatives leverage advanced technologies like APIs and Massive MIMO for coverage and capacity improvements, assisting in building the infrastructure needed for next-generation connectivity. Strategic partnerships, such as those with MTN Rwanda, highlight Ericsson’s commitment to expanding network capabilities, enhancing digital inclusion, and enabling widespread access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

Ericsson's dedication to digital inclusion extends to private LTE and IoT-driven network solutions. These technologies empower industries such as mining, ports, and oil & gas with enhanced automation, improved safety, and greater productivity. Initiatives like the partnership with Comsol are integral to supporting industrial transformation in Africa.

Fixed Wireless Access serves as a crucial enabler of connectivity, particularly in rural and underserved regions. Ericsson’s cost-optimized 4G-based FWA solutions ensure quick deployment and sustainable broadband access, delivering benefits to communities such as improved digital education systems, as demonstrated in Senegal. Additionally, a ConsumerLab survey in Nigeria indicates strong household interest, with 3 in 5 participants expressing willingness to adopt 5G-based FWA services. Currently, FWA services are being offered across multiple African markets, including South Africa, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Tanzania.

Ericsson is leading the transformation of telecommunications in Africa by implementing programmable and intelligent network operations. These technologies significantly reduce network energy costs—accounting for up to 45% of network OPEX—and enhance user experience by delivering performance-based services.

Ericsson's innovative radio solutions, such as the Multisector Triple-band Radio 6646 deployed with MTN, FDD and TDD combined Triple-band Radio 4466 in Airtel OpCos, and other advanced models like Dual-band 32T/R M-MIMO Antenna Integrated Radio 3229 in Djibouti, showcase superior customer experience and energy efficiency. Other notable deployments include FDD MM 3284 in MTN Nigeria and YAS opcos across several countries like Senegal and Madagascar. These technologies help telecom operators achieve greater energy efficiency, expand coverage, and improve network performance in diverse environments.

Ericsson's AI-driven RAN solutions optimize network management and intelligently allocate resources, such as spectrum between 4G and 5G, leading to operational cost reductions and enhanced network efficiency. These advancements are critical for bridging infrastructure gaps and reducing Total Ownership Costs (TCO), enabling the rollout of next-generation connectivity in economically constrained regions.

• Ericsson Wallet Platform: Through the Ericsson Wallet Platform, financial inclusion has reached more than 119 million users globally. This platform provides secure and accessible financial services, enhancing economic opportunities for individuals without traditional banking services.
• Mobile money open API service: Ericsson's award-winning Mobile Money Open API service accelerates innovation within the fintech ecosystem. By empowering mobile payment platforms, this initiative further promotes the growth of mobile financial services across Africa, encouraging economic development and increasing access to modern financial tools.

• UNICEF Giga initiative: Ericsson plays a leading role as a private-sector partner in the UNICEF and ITU-backed Giga initiative. The initiative has benefitted over 7.79 million students across 14,500 schools in 34 countries through enhanced internet connectivity and infrastructure. It aims to bridge the digital education divide, reflecting Ericsson's commitment to empowering young learners globally.
• Connect to Learn program: Ericsson’s Connect to Learn initiative has reached more than 485,000 children and young adults across 43 countries. This program leverages digital technology to transform education systems, providing access to digital platforms and fostering digital literacy.
• Smart Africa Digital Academy (SADA): In collaboration with Smart Africa, Ericsson is driving initiatives to enhance digital skills across the continent. SADA has delivered upskilling programs to over 100 policymakers and regulators from 19 African countries, equipping them with the knowledge needed to guide their countries through the digital transformation process.