Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Business Hub
ECONET Wireless Zimbabwe has installed 103 new base stations, including 27 lightweight and cost-effective units targeting underdeveloped urban and rural areas, as part of efforts to enhance network coverage and meet growing demand driven by urbanisation.
The installations were carried out during the third quarter ended November 30, 2025, according to the Group’s latest trading update.
Econet said the new sites provide a critical foundation for future innovations, enabling the business to roll out new product offerings and activate a range of Internet of Things (IoT) use cases to unlock new markets.
“The Group completed the core network expansion for voice and data services, which will improve both data and voice service quality,” the company said.
“To complement this progress, we are in the final phase of commissioning a new billing and subscription platform aimed at automating critical business processes and enabling more personalised, customer-centric digital experiences. This marks a significant shift from traditional operating models.”
On mobile network operations (MNO), Econet said it remained focused on strengthening customer experience through scaled digital self-service platforms and improved first-contact resolution.
“Anchored by continued network infrastructure investment, data usage remained the primary growth driver, increasing by more than 50 percent compared to the same period last year,” the Group said.
“Voice usage firmed by 35 percent over the comparative prior period. The continued growth in volumes underscores the need for commensurate network infrastructure capacitation and optimisation. This is a key enabler to improve customer experience and drive digital services usage towards regional peer averages, a key revenue driver and value creator.”
Looking ahead, Econet expressed confidence that the proposed carve-out of its infrastructure business would unlock greater shareholder value.
“The proposed carve-out enables clearer visibility of asset values, focused capital allocation, and a distinct operational strategy for infrastructure deployment and management, demonstrating our strategic focus on optimising shareholder value,” the Group said.
It added that continued investment and network modernisation position the business to leverage AI-driven solutions to improve efficiency and customer experience.
“These include network fault detection and healing, fraud detection, and hyper-personalised customer experiences. Innovation will remain at the core of our strategic intent to diversify revenue streams and enhance service offerings in a dynamic and competitive landscape.”
Bongani Ndlovu