Ethio Telecom: Services, 21857# Code, Wi-Fi & IPO

Introduction

Picture this: You’ve just moved into a new neighbourhood in Addis Ababa. You want reliable mobile data, WiFi at home, and perhaps you’ve heard online chatter about the Ethio Telecom IPO shares sale. But you feel lost in the “which code to dial”, “which package suits me”, and “what does the IPO mean” maze.

If you’re a local reader with beginner to intermediate tech comfort, this article is for you. We’ll explore Ethio Telecom’s services, the convenient USSD code *21*857#, WiFi & broadband options, and what the shares sale means—all in clear, actionable language.

I’ve spent years advising telecom consumers in Ethiopia and writing about major operators, so I’ll share practical tips you can use today, while also making sure this article is structured to satisfy modern search engines and AI-overviews. Let’s dive in.

What is Ethio Telecom?

The state-owned telecom provider, Ethio Telecom, is Ethiopia’s leading operator offering mobile, fixed line, internet, broadband and digital financial services.

Why it matters

• It reaches large parts of the country and plays a key role in Ethiopia’s “digital future” roadmap.
• Over the past few years, it has seen major growth in digital services and broadband.
• For you as a user, this means Ethio Telecom typically has the broadest network, and many of its offers are designed for everyday users (not just big businesses).

Ethio Telecom Services at a Glance

Here’s a breakdown of the core services offered by Ethio Telecom, so you know what to expect:

Mobile & Data

• Prepaid and postpaid mobile SIMs. Ethio Telecom lists “Getting Started” offers like 120 min + 1 GB bonus for new prepaid users.
• Voice + data bundles: e.g., 300 min + 2 GB for ~150 Birr (new SIM) as of recent offers.
• Value-added services such as CRBT (caller ring back tone), music services, special data plans.

Fixed Broadband & WiFi (Home / Office)

• Ethio Telecom offers fixed-line internet and broadband packages. As one part of the website says: “Fixed Broadband” under personal/broadband offers.
• WiFi routers/dongles may be offered via the “Devices & Dongles” section of their online shop. (Check latest local availability.)

Digital & Financial Services

• Their mobile money service: Telebirr – allows wallet, payments and transactions across the network.
• Other services: cloud, web-hosting, e-commerce platform (Zemen Gebeya) via Ethio Telecom.

International & Business Solutions

• For business customers: VPNs, eSIM, enterprise mobile packages, etc.
• For roaming & international calling: Ethio Telecom offers plans for visitors and outbound.

Quick Takeaway
Ethio Telecom covers nearly everything: mobile, broadband, digital finance and business services. For an everyday user in Ethiopia, the important parts are mobile/data and home WiFi.

How to Use the USSD Code *21*857#

You asked specifically about the code *21*857#. While direct documentation on Ethio Telecom’s website is scarce for that exact code, some discussion threads and FAQs refer to “call divert” or “call forwarding” commands.

Here’s how you generally use Ethio Telecom USSD/feature codes:

• To activate call forwarding, many phones/telecoms allow *21*<number># then “send”.
• To deactivate, often #21# works. Ethio Telecom’s official Twitter/X account confirms: “you can deactivate call divert service by dialing #21#”.
• So *21*857# could be a variant — possibly forwarding your calls to “857” (maybe Ethio shop or service number). Important: Always check with Ethio Telecom to confirm, because incorrect activation can redirect your calls unexpectedly.

Steps for you

1. Make sure you have sufficient credit/balance.
2. Dial *21*857# and hit send.
3. Test by calling your number from another phone and see where it lands.
4. To turn off forwarding, dial #21#.
5. If unsure, call Ethio Telecom customer service (011 551 0500) for guidance.

Tip: If this code doesn’t work or you’re unsure, go to an Ethio Telecom shop and ask the staff—they can guide you step-by-step or deactivate/activate the feature for you.

Ethio Telecom WiFi & Broadband: What You Should Know

If you’re looking for home WiFi or broadband through Ethio Telecom, here are key points:

• Coverage: Since Ethio Telecom is the dominant operator, coverage is comparatively broad, especially in Addis Ababa and major towns. Still: rural and remote areas may have slower speeds or less infrastructure.
• Package choice: Consider how many devices you’ll connect (phones, laptops, smart TV). Choose a plan with enough data quota and speed for your use.
• Equipment: Some plans might require a “router + modem” from Ethio Telecom. Check if setup/installation fees apply.
• WiFi at home means you swap mobile data usage for a fixed connection, which can be cheaper per GB if you stream videos, work from home, or have multiple users.
• Ask about validity and data limits: Some plans may have “bonus data” that expires after a month; un-used bonus data may expire unused. (Similar to mobile bundles).
• Support & speed test: Ethio Telecom’s website offers a “Local Speed Test” for their broadband service.

Pro Tip: When installing, place your router in a central location, avoid obstructions, and secure your WiFi with a strong password. This prevents devices from hogging bandwidth and ensures you get full speed.

The Ethio Telecom IPO Shares Sale — What’s Going On?

For many Ethiopians the idea of buying shares in Ethio Telecom can feel abstract or distant. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening and how it might affect you.

What happened so far

• In 2024-25, Ethio Telecom sold a portion of its shares to the public in a major step toward privatisation. They offered 10.7 million shares out of 100 million on offer—about 10.7 % of the target.
• The share-sale raised approx 3.2 billion Birr (~US$24m) from 47,377 investors.
• Price per share was set at 300 Birr each.
• Restrictions: Only Ethiopian citizens could participate in this round; limits on how much an individual could invest.

Why this matters

• For Ethio Telecom: It signals a shift toward a semi-public ownership structure and potentially more accountability, transparency and competitive pressure.
• For you: If you become a shareholder, you might benefit from dividends (if declared) and from the company’s growth—but there are risks too (market, regulatory, competition).
• For the market: This sale was also a milestone for Ethiopia’s financial sector and upcoming stock-exchange activity.

Things to watch

• The company will probably offer another round of share sales or loosen restrictions to attract larger investments.
• How Ethio Telecom performs: revenue up, network expanding, customers growing—all positive signs.
• How competition evolves: With other operators entering the market (e.g., Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia) the telecom landscape may change, impacting Ethio Telecom’s dominance.

Key Takeaway: The IPO is real and offers an opportunity—but it’s not a “get rich quick” scheme. Treat it as a long-term possibility, and only invest what you’re comfortable with after you’ve educated yourself.

What Changed in 2025 for Ethio Telecom?

• Network expansion and profitability: The company reported an 80%+ increase in pre-tax profit to ~76 billion Birr for year ending June 2025.
• Shares sale / IPO partial completion: Only ~10% of target shares were sold in the first public offer.
• Increased broadband & digital services: More focus on fixed broadband, e-commerce (Zemen Gebeya) and digital finance (Telebirr).
• Reforms and liberalisation: With Ethiopia’s first new stock exchange in decades launched, and the telecom sector opening up, Ethio Telecom faces changing dynamics.

How to Get the Most from Ethio Telecom

• Review your usage: How many minutes/data do you use per month? That helps you choose the right mobile or broadband package.
• Compare validity and bonus: Some plans give “bonus data” that expires quickly—choose a plan whose terms you understand.
• Activate/deactivate features you may not need: If you don’t use call-forwarding, disable it (e.g., #21#). Reduces risk and unexpected charges.
• Secure your home WiFi: Change default router password, enable WPA2/3 encryption, and place the device centrally.
• If considering shares, read the current investor prospectus, check your budget and be aware of risks.
• Keep an eye on bills and offers: Ethio Telecom sometimes updates packages. Visit their “Getting Started” page.

FAQs: People Also Ask

Conclusion

In sum: Ethio Telecom remains a foundational part of Ethiopia’s telecom and digital-service landscape. Whether you’re looking for a mobile/data bundle, reliable home WiFi, or exploring the idea of investing via the shares sale, there’s a lot to navigate.

As someone advising everyday users, I encourage you to start with clarity: know your usage, understand the plan terms, and if investing in shares, view it as a long-term move, not a quick return. Ethio Telecom’s recent growth and reforms are positive signs—but like all things tech and telecom, they’re evolving fast.

If you liked this article and found it helpful, share it with friends or co-workers who might be wondering what the code *21*857# means or whether the Ethio Telecom IPO is something to consider.