Allegations of rural inaccessibility, internet shutdowns, hefty tariffs, and service unreliability were forwarded against Ethiopia’s state-owned telecom operator at Parliament.
Management from Ethio telecom, which recently issued Ethiopia’s first Initial Public Offering (IPO), were busy Wednesday morning responding to over 236 questions issued by the public and MPs. As the 130-year-old state-owned operator embarks on the final stage of its three-year growth strategy, it has amassed a formidable 80 million-strong customer base.
However, an underdeveloped road infrastructure, limited reach of national electric grid, and financial constraints continue to undermine ethio tel’s service accessibility across rural Ethiopia.
Desalegn Chane (PhD), an opposition MP, demanded explanations regarding internet blackouts in areas experiencing political instability.
“Internet is just about as important as water and electricity,” Desalegn stated.
He pointed out how internet coverage becomes even more essential in conflict areas as it enables mobile payment and minimizes exposure of citizens to violence. Desalegn also expressed frustration over the mobile data prices of ethio tel which he felt were far too hefty.
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