HARARE – Mobile services now reach nearly 89% of Zimbabwe’s population, with mobile subscriptions rising to 14.83 million by mid-2024, up from 14.74 million in the first quarter, according to the latest Postal and Telecommunications Sector Performance Report.
The report, adopted by Cabinet on Tuesday, highlighted a 12.5% increase in data and internet traffic, reflecting a growing reliance on mobile data for online activities.
The report, presented by ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera, noted investments in high-speed broadband, including the deployment of 272 Long Term Evolution (LTE) base stations.
Econet added 31 new stations, while NetOne replaced older 2G stations with 4G infrastructure, the report noted.
“Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) are developing at a rapid pace worldwide hence the country has to be proactive to use these technologies for its growth,” Information Minister Jenfan Muswere said at a post-Cabinet briefing on Tuesday.
“The quarterly report underlines the significance of creating transparent, responsible systems that align with the country’s national vision and strategic intent,” he continued.
“Highlights of the Report include that the number of mobile subscriptions stands at 14 834 345, an increase from the 14 739 613 recorded in the first quarter. Fixed telephony maintained a tele-density of 1.90%, while there was an increase in data and internet subscriptions,” Muswere added.
“Of particular note is the 12.5% increase in data and internet traffic on mobile devices, which indicates that more online activities are relying on mobile data,” Muswere said.
The shift from voice-centric to data-centric services, he added, has driven significant investments in broadband infrastructure. Kukurigo
