Online Reporter
Jacqueline Ntaka [email protected]
WHILE many African countries are still expanding 5G networks, some of the world’s most advanced economies have already turned their attention to the next frontier of telecommunications — 6G. Countries such as China, South
Korea, Japan, the United States and members of the European union are investing billions of dollars into research and testing, with commercial deployment expected in the next decade.
Researchers envision a future where 6G networks deliver ultra-fast speeds, near-instant communication and support technologies that today seem futuristic, including advanced artificial intelligence, autonomous transport systems and immersive virtual environments.
The growing focus on 6G highlights the widening digital divide between developed nations and much of the developing world. Across Africa, the priority remains the rollout and expansion of 5G infrastructure. While progress has been made in countries such as South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria and Egypt, large parts of the continent still struggle with broadband coverage, unreliable electricity supply and limited digital infrastructure. In many rural communities, even basic internet access remains a challenge.
The situation presents both a warning and an opportunity. Africa risks falling further behind if it waits until 6G becomes a reality before taking action. The continent has already experienced the consequences of delayed technology adoption, often arriving late to digital revolutions that have transformed economies elsewhere.
As the global telecommunications industry begins planning for the next generation of connectivity, African governments and businesses must ensure they are not left on the sidelines.
Zimbabwe finds itself in a similar position. The country has made notable strides in expanding ICT infrastructure through fibre-optic networks, mobile broadband services and increased internet access. The arrival of satellite internet services and ongoing digital transformation initiatives have also improved connectivity in some areas.
However, network coverage gaps, high data costs, power supply challenges and limited investment continue to constrain the pace of progress.
If Zimbabwe is to remain competitive in the digital economy, significant investment in telecommunications infrastructure will be required. Expanding 5G coverage should remain a priority, but policymakers must also begin preparing for technologies that will define the future. Universities, research institutions and ICT companies need to become active participants in emerging technology discussions rather than simply consumers of innovations developed elsewhere.
Education will be equally important. Advanced technologies require highly skilled professionals in fields such as telecommunications engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, cloud computing and data science. Countries that are investing in 6G are also investing heavily in research and talent development.
For Zimbabwe and the rest of Africa, strengthening science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education will be critical to closing the gap.
Public-private partnerships can also play a crucial role. Governments alone cannot finance the infrastructure required for future digital growth. Collaboration with telecommunications companies, technology firms, international investors and development partners will be essential in expanding networks, improving digital literacy and supporting innovation.
The transition from 5G to 6G may still be years away, but the foundations are being laid today. Africa’s challenge is not simply to catch up with the rest of the world, but to position itself to compete in an increasingly technology-driven future. For Zimbabwe, the message is clear: embracing innovation, investing in infrastructure and developing local talent will determine whether the country becomes a participant in the next digital revolution or merely an observer.
l Jacqueline Ntaka is the CEO of Mviyo Technologies, a local tech company that provides custom software development, mobile applications and data analytics solutions. She can be contacted on [email protected]
