The Board of Directors of Ethio Telecom has appointed Mr. Tariku Demissie as Acting Chief Executive Officer of the company, effective October 16, 2026.

The appointment was communicated in a letter issued by Ms. Frehiwot Tamiru, Chairperson of the Board of Directors. Ms. Frehiwot previously served as Chief Executive Officer of Ethio Telecom. On October 8, 2026, Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed appointed her Minister of Innovation and Technology.

In the letter, the Chairperson stated that the company has developed and begun implementing a three-year strategic plan entitled Next Horizon: Digital and Beyond 2028. She noted that the first year of the plan was concluded with significant success.

Ms. Frehiwot described the present period as a critical juncture for the company. Ethio Telecom is implementing the second year of its strategy while undergoing a change in its top leadership. She stated that three matters require focused attention: an orderly leadership transition, the uninterrupted continuity of the company’s operations and services, and the further strengthening of capacities already built.

Accordingly, the Board has entrusted Mr. Tariku with responsibility for ensuring the effective implementation of the strategic plan, in coordination with the company’s management, staff and relevant stakeholders. His mandate also covers:

  • directing day-to-day operations through appropriate leadership oversight and control;
  • improving service quality and operational efficiency; and
  • strengthening the company’s sustainable growth and competitiveness.

The letter did not specify the duration of the acting appointment or a timeline for the appointment of a permanent Chief Executive Officer.

Source: Tikvah Ethiopia