Ethio telecom has inaugurated teleStream, a new internet-based content streaming platform, alongside a fully digital “Zero-Touch” system aimed at modernizing fixed broadband service delivery across Ethiopia.
The launch forms part of the company’s broader “Next Horizon: Digital & Beyond 2028” strategy, which focuses on digital inclusion, job creation, and expanding Ethiopia’s footprint in the continental digital economy.
Related articles
teleStream Targets Satellite Dependency
The newly introduced teleStream service is built on Ethio telecom’s existing fiber, 4G, and 5G infrastructure, supported by its telecloud platform and integrated telebirr digital payment ecosystem. The service delivers content via fixed broadband Wi-Fi without requiring satellite dishes, positioning itself as an alternative to traditional satellite-based television services.
According to the company, teleStream currently offers more than 60 live TV channels and over 350 Video-on-Demand (VOD) titles. The service is accessible through fixed broadband or SIM connectivity using a Set Top Box (STB) device, which converts non-smart televisions into smart-enabled devices.
By hosting broadcasts on local telecloud infrastructure, the company says the platform reduces reliance on foreign satellite leases and aims to ensure service stability unaffected by weather conditions.
Platform for Media and Content Creators
Ethio telecom stated that teleStream opens opportunities for local TV stations, production houses, film producers, writers, and advertising agencies to distribute content more widely. The platform allows content providers to offer programming either free of charge or through paid models and introduces targeted advertising capabilities.
The company indicated that shifting to local infrastructure could help media houses reduce foreign currency expenditures associated with satellite leasing.
Service Applications Across Sectors
Beyond household entertainment, teleStream is positioned as a solution for hotels, businesses, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and government agencies. The platform is designed to support remote learning, digital libraries, awareness campaigns, and information dissemination across sectors.
Ethio telecom also highlighted the platform’s potential contribution to smart city initiatives by reducing rooftop satellite dishes and hosting content locally to support what it described as national digital sovereignty.
Fiber Expansion and Copper Switch-Off
Alongside teleStream, the company announced continued progress in upgrading fixed broadband infrastructure. Ethio telecom has deployed 14,413 kilometers of metro fiber and built capacity to serve up to 1.2 million customers. As part of its copper switch-off initiative, more than 79,000 customers have been migrated from legacy copper networks to fiber.
The company has also introduced “Fiber to the Room” (FTTR) services, enabling high-speed internet connectivity directly to specific rooms within homes or offices, aimed at supporting cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and smart home applications.
Zero-Touch Digital Operations
Ethio telecom has implemented a new Operation Support System (OSS) designed to digitize fixed internet service delivery. Through this “Zero-Touch” system, customers can request new Wi-Fi or bundled services and register faults digitally via the telebirr SuperApp mini-app without visiting service centers.
Service activation and payments are integrated with telebirr, and registration requires a National ID (Fayda) and an active telebirr account.
The company stated that the combined rollout of teleStream and zero-touch fiber services represents a significant step in advancing Ethiopia’s digital economy transition and aligns with the national Digital Ethiopia 2030 vision.
Customers can access teleStream bundled with fixed broadband through the telebirr SuperApp’s Zemen Gebeya platform or at Ethio telecom service centers nationwide.
