Econet Wireless Zimbabwe and Ericsson have agreed to explore a new generation of mobile-network services using artificial intelligence, 5G Advanced features and enhanced security.

The companies signed a memorandum of understanding at Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona. Their stated programme includes AI-driven radio access network optimisation, energy-efficient network evolution, network slicing, exposed network APIs and Internet of Things services.

AI behind the network

Network optimisation uses software to help operators manage how capacity is distributed and how equipment responds to changing demand. Econet and Ericsson say AI-based automation could improve network performance and energy efficiency, while supporting service reliability and future coverage growth.

The work is not the same as announcing nationwide 5G Advanced availability. An MoU establishes a framework for collaboration and testing; the companies have not set out a consumer launch date, pricing or a public deployment schedule for the listed capabilities. Their release says the collaboration is expected to support key urban and rural areas.

Programmable services and security

Network slicing can allow an operator to configure parts of a shared network for different needs, such as a business application requiring more predictable performance. Exposed APIs can let approved developers and enterprises access certain network capabilities through software. IoT services could connect devices used in sectors such as logistics, utilities and agriculture.

Those features make mobile networks more programmable, but they also raise practical questions around security, access and real-world service quality. The value will depend on implementation and whether businesses can use the capabilities to solve concrete problems.

The agreement builds on a relationship of more than two decades between the companies. For Zimbabwean users, the immediate significance is a roadmap for experimentation, not a promise that every handset or location will see a near-term change.

Source: Econet Wireless Zimbabwe’s announcement.