Ericsson and Econet partner in Zimbabwe

Voice network expansion key for growing economy

Cellular network operator, Econet Wireless Global, and Ericsson have signed a three-year upgrade and expansion agreement to increase capacity for voice and data traffic in Zimbabwe.

Under the terms of the agreement, Ericsson will be responsible for the expansion of the Ericsson Core and Access networks as well as key business support system delivery. Ericsson will also serve and expand on Econet’s upgraded network.

Craig Fitzgerald, CEO of EWG, says the agreement has several benefits for the operator. “Ericsson’s solid position as an established infrastructural provider in the local and international market and the diverse connectivity services they are able to offer Econet, underpinned our decision to expand our current relationship and we felt that the company was able to correctly support our growth strategy.”

Lars Lindén, President, Ericsson sub-Saharan Africa, says the expansion agreement will not only deliver significant network and operational efficiencies for Econet, but will also allow for the expansion of voice and data traffic to the country. “Business opportunities exist in a vast number of sectors in Zimbabwe, including information technology and this type of recapitalisation and expansion is just what the country needs to rebuild and develop.”

Ericsson’s coverage is in the densely populated Harare, Chitungwiza, Ruwa and Norton. Under the agreement, Ericsson will provide for the core network, access, transport and transmission technologies and services such as system integration and business consultancy.