Econet Wireless is Zimbabwe’s leading mobile operator with 9.1 million subscribers in the second quarter of 2022, according to regulator data. This represents 65.2% market share.
Telecommunications operator Econet Wireless Zimbabwe announced on Friday, September 30, that it plans to upgrade its network infrastructure and roll out new infrastructure in the Matabeleland region over the coming months. This initiative should notably enable the operator to improve the quality of services provided to subscribers in the region.
“ We are embarking on a network refurbishment program in Bulawayo [Zimbabwe’s second city, editor’s note] by modernizing more than 150 sites in Bulawayo with the latest technologies. We will also renovate our backup power systems and expand coverage in urban and rural areas of Matabeleland. Customers should begin to feel the impact of these upgrades early in the new year ,” explained Kezito Makuni, COO of Econet.
The investment is part of a program the company has put in place to expand its network in rural communities, improve 5G coverage and restore vandalized network infrastructure. Since 2021, the company has been engaged in a telecom network expansion race with rival NetOne. These include the deployment and upgrading of 3G and 4G stations as well as the installation of 5G infrastructure.
According to Stella Nkomo, Deputy General Manager of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, ” This initiative not only shows Econet’s commitment to serving the Matabeleland region, but also promises improved service delivery, ‘using new network technologies, strengthening partnerships with business stakeholders as well as increasing employment opportunities ’.