This extended partnership will both optimise the subscriber experience and strengthen Airtel’s market leadership in the country.
The contract covers equipment, software and range of professional services, including project management, systems integration and support. It also covers the transformation of existing 2G infrastructure, swap out of existing 3G sites.
Ericsson will provide equipment from the Ericsson Radio System family that are flexible to changing demands on the road to 5G with multi-standard, multi-band and multi-layer technology. This will enable energy-efficient and cost-effective operations while allowing Airtel to meet growing subscriber demands for better and faster mobile internet connectivity.
Fredrik Jejdling, Head of Region Ericsson sub-Saharan Africa, says: “We are excited by the opportunity for inclusion and empowerment that increased connectivity extends to Africa and Zambia. This agreement builds on our long-term strategic business relationship with Airtel, while delivering a superior network performance to Airtel Zambia’s subscribers and supporting part of Africa’s growth story.”
