Vusumuzi Dube
Jacqueline Ntaka, Feature
ACCORDING to the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz)’s annual postal and telecommunications sector performance report of 2024, more and more people in Zimbabwe are getting connected to the internet, and that’s a big deal. It signifies a major leap forward in the nation’s development, offering new opportunities for individuals, businesses, and communities.
This surge in connectivity means more Zimbabweans can access vital information, education, and online services, fostering economic growth and social inclusion.
To put some numbers on it, by the end of 2024, there were approximately 12,5 million active internet connections across the country. That’s over a million more than the year before, indicating a substantial increase in access within a relatively short period. This expansion is crucial for Zimbabwe to participate fully in the global digital economy.
So, how are people getting online? Here’s a breakdown:
Mobile internet
The most common way people connect is still through their mobile phones. Services like 3G and 4G (you might see these letters on your phone) have seen a healthy increase. This widespread access to mobile internet is particularly important in Zimbabwe, where mobile devices are often the primary means of accessing the internet, connecting people in both urban and rural areas.
Fixed internet
More and more people are also getting internet at home, similar to how you might have a landline. This type of internet service is getting much better and faster. The improvement in fixed internet services means households and businesses can enjoy more reliable and higher-speed connections, facilitating activities such as streaming, online learning, and conducting business.
Satellite internet
A big change is happening with satellite internet. Starlink has started providing internet from space, and this has led to a huge jump in people using this type of connection. This is really good news for people in rural areas who haven’t had good internet access before. The expansion of satellite internet is a game-changer, as it extends connectivity to previously under-served and remote regions, bridging the digital divide and enabling more Zimbabweans to access the benefits of the internet.
Because of all this, a large portion of Zimbabweans can now access the internet. Just over four-fifths of the population can get online. This increased connectivity empowers citizens, enhances communication, and facilitates participation in the digital world.
There are a few key reasons why more people are using the internet:
Better infrastructure
Phone companies are improving their networks, making it easier to connect. These improvements in infrastructure are essential for providing more reliable and faster internet services, supporting the growing demand for connectivity across the country.
Demand for online services
We are doing more and more online, whether it’s keeping in touch with family, using social media, or getting information. This growing demand for online services is driving the expansion of internet access, with Zimbabweans increasingly relying on the internet for various aspects of their daily lives.
More smartphones
More people have smartphones, which are like mini-computers that let you access the internet wherever you are. The increasing affordability and availability of smartphones have played a key role in boosting internet penetration, as these devices provide a convenient and portable means of accessing the digital world.
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]
Online Reporter