Online Reporter
Austin Nyathi, [email protected]
THE construction of the Mlambapele mobile network tower is expected to bridge the digital divide between marginalised rural communities and their urban counterparts, Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Omphile Marupi, has said.
The project is part of the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) Tower Relocation Programme.
Dr Marupi, who is also the legislator for Gwanda South, said the tower will be a game-changer for the community by enhancing connectivity and supporting the Second Republic’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy.
Speaking after touring the project site on Tuesday, Dr Marupi highlighted the importance of the development, particularly for a border community that has long struggled with reliable mobile network coverage.
“The project came at a crucial time when it was difficult for this community to connect with the world.
With this tower, we will now be able to communicate effectively both within Zimbabwe and beyond, given that we are adjacent to Botswana and South Africa,” he said.
Dr Marupi noted that, until now, the Mlambapele community had been relying largely on foreign networks, which was costly and inefficient.
The new infrastructure, he said, will ensure that locals have access to affordable and reliable mobile and internet services.
“With this development, we are happy because it contributes directly to the Vision 2030 agenda, particularly in building a digital economy. There is no way we can talk about economic growth without ensuring that communities are digitally connected,” said Dr Marupi.
The deputy minister said the tower would not only enhance general communication but also have a profound impact on education, agriculture, business, and other socio-economic activities in the area.
“This project is set to benefit the education sector as schools in the area will now be able to use computers for research and e-learning, which will go a long way in improving pass rates. Farmers will also be able to communicate with their markets and access weather forecasts, while small-scale miners and businesses will be able to conduct transactions more efficiently,” he said.
“Additionally, the tourism sector stands to benefit, as improved connectivity will make the area more attractive to visitors.”
Dr Marupi also pointed out that improved communication is critical for disaster management, particularly during the rainy season when the area experiences flooding.
“While this project has been completed ahead of others, such as the construction of a bridge over the Shashe River to enable easier travel between Zimbabwe and Botswana, communication remains a crucial aspect.
“During the rainy season, floods often isolate the community, making it difficult to seek assistance or co-ordinate emergency responses. This tower will help address such challenges,” he said.
Ward 21 Councillor Andrew Ndlovu welcomed the development, describing it as a milestone for the local community.
“We are very grateful that we will now be able to communicate with our counterparts in Botswana and other parts of the country. This will not only strengthen our social ties but also open up economic opportunities,” he said.
