Econet Zimbabwe Partners with Ericsson to Expand AI-Driven Network Infrastructure

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe (EWZ) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Swedish telecommunications equipment manufacturer Ericsson to strengthen its network infrastructure using artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies.

Through this partnership, the two companies aim to improve network performance, enhance service reliability and deliver a more consistent user experience across Econet’s mobile services.

Focus on AI, 5G and Network Automation

Under the agreement, the companies will collaborate on a range of innovation initiatives. These include AI-driven optimisation of radio access networks (RAN), development of 5G Advanced capabilities, open network application programming interfaces (APIs), network slicing and Internet of Things (IoT) services.

The collaboration will also explore AI-powered automation tools designed to improve operational efficiency and energy management. These technologies could also help expand the coverage and capacity of both 4G and 5G networks.

Ericsson says the initiative could also reduce the environmental impact of network operations by improving energy efficiency and lowering carbon emissions.

Building More Autonomous Networks

The agreement reflects Econet’s growing focus on artificial intelligence and machine learning within its operating model. According to the company, these technologies are expected to support the development of more autonomous networks capable of self-configuration, self-optimisation and self-repair with limited human intervention.

Jim Myers, chairman of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, said integrating AI into network operations should help deliver a more consistent service experience for customers. Continued investment in advanced technologies, he added, is expected to support revenue growth, expand service offerings and improve overall profitability.

Market Position and Financial Performance

Econet remains Zimbabwe’s largest telecommunications operator. Data from the national telecom regulator shows the company has 11.78 million mobile subscriptions, giving it a market share of 73.23%.

Rival operator NetOne accounts for 24.78% of the market, while Telecel holds 1.99%. As of June 2025, Econet also carried 82.21% of Zimbabwe’s internet traffic.

Financial results also point to strong growth. For 2025, Econet reported revenue of 22.2 billion ZiG, equivalent to about $866.36 million. This represents a 23% increase from the previous year. Net profit rose sharply to 2.3 billion ZiG, marking year-on-year growth of 274%..

Read More About Ericsson in Africa HERE