Ericsson and Econet Wireless Zimbabwe signed an agreement at the 2025 Mobile World Congress held in Barcelona, Spain, to introduce 5G core capabilities (a necessary component of 5G standalone (SA) deployment), expand their core network capacity, and introduce Ericsson Cloud Core Exposure Server (CCES) into their network.
While upgrading Ericsson’s wireless access network solution, Econet will upgrade its core network to Ericsson’s cloud native dual-mode 5G core solution in 2023 to support its 4G and 5G non standalone (NSA) deployment and expansion. Now, it is adding 5G core cloud native network functionality (CNF), which will enable it to introduce 5G SA on its network.
Due to Econet’s cloud native transformation, the introduction of these new network features into existing solutions has been simplified. This also means that the cloud native core network provides high-level orchestration and automation for operational efficiency, and offers new features for Econet, such as scalable deployment of cloud based core network functions and dynamic adjustment of network resources.
With the addition of 5G core CNFs, Econet will have a network capable of meeting expected data traffic growth, enhancing mobile broadband capabilities, opening up new use case dimensions, developing existing services, and developing new services for both enterprise and individual users, thereby further benefiting from its 5G connectivity.
As part of the core network expansion, Ericsson will provide lifecycle management for Econet’s existing and newly added Ericsson Virtual Network Functions (VNFs) and CNF nodes. In addition, Econet will expand its existing Network Function Virtualization Infrastructure (NFVI) and Ericsson Cloud Native Infrastructure Solution (CNIS) to support workloads and further advance its ongoing cloud native transformation to leverage the greater energy, resource, and cost efficiency brought by new infrastructure.
The infrastructure expansion will utilize Ericsson Network Manager (ENM) and Ericsson Network Intelligent Query Statistics (ENIQ) tools for fault and performance management, ensuring that Econet maintains a strong, reliable, secure, and scalable network while preparing for next-generation services.
Econet will also introduce Ericsson’s CCES, which will enable Econet to securely showcase core network functionality to developers and ecosystem participants through application programmable interfaces (APIs). By integrating with Econet’s existing API platform, CCES will unlock innovative use cases and revenue opportunities, such as establishing partnerships with third-party applications and services. This solution adopts cloud native architecture and advanced security mechanisms to ensure the reliability and security of the Econet network.
Roy Chimanikire, Deputy CEO of Econet Wireless in Zimbabwe, said, “The cooperation with Ericsson on this agreement marks an important milestone for Econet in driving the transformation of the country’s telecommunications ecosystem. We look forward to enhancing the scalability, reliability, and efficiency of our network, while unleashing advanced features such as orchestration, automation, and virtualization. These features pave the way for new services and revenue streams, drive Econet’s growth, and enhance our customers’ digital experience.”
Alain Maupin, Vice President of Ericsson’s Middle East and Africa region and Head of Central and East Africa, said, “We are honored to collaborate with Econet Wireless in Zimbabwe to help them embark on their journey towards telecom cloud. Our cutting-edge solution will prepare for 5G independent networks and provide next-generation services, enabling them to meet growing data demands while achieving scalable and secure network functionality. According to Ericsson’s # AfricaInMotion vision, we will work together to pave the way for advanced connectivity and breakthrough opportunities in the region.”
Based on their long-term partnership of over 27 years, the latest agreement between Ericsson and Econet supports the digital infrastructure goals of Smart Zimbabwe 2030 and strengthens their commitment to achieving a nationally connected future.