Zimbabwe’s Mobile Coverage Reaches 89% Of Population With Mobile Subscriptions Reaching 14.83 Million
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Loading... - Susan Rono
- 03 Oct 2024
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Zimbabwe's mobile service coverage now reaches nearly 89% of the population, with mobile subscriptions climbing to 14.83 million by mid-2024, according to the latest Postal and Telecommunications Sector Performance Report. This marks a slight rise from 14.74 million subscriptions in the first quarter of the year, underscoring the nation’s growing mobile network penetration.
The report, adopted by Cabinet on Tuesday, also highlights a significant 12.5% increase in data and internet traffic, reflecting the growing reliance on mobile data for online activities.
ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera pointed out that continued investments in high-speed broadband infrastructure are key drivers of this growth. This includes the deployment of 272 Long Term Evolution (LTE) base stations nationwide, with Econet adding 31 new stations and NetOne upgrading several 2G stations to 4G technology. These upgrades are crucial for meeting the rising demand for faster internet speeds and more reliable mobile services.
During a post-Cabinet briefing, Information Minister Jenfan Muswere emphasized the importance of leveraging Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) for national growth, aligning with Zimbabwe’s strategic goals. He highlighted key trends from the report, including a steady increase in mobile and fixed-line subscriptions, with fixed-line telephony maintaining a tele-density of 1.90%.
One of the most notable developments is the shift from voice to data-centric services. The 12.5% surge in mobile data usage has fueled investments in broadband infrastructure, as mobile operators adjust to the rising demand for better internet services. This shift signifies Zimbabwe’s transition toward a more digitally-driven economy, with mobile data becoming a primary driver of online activities across the country.
