Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Senior Zimpapers Writer
MATABELELAND North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Richard Moyo, has reaffirmed that the province remains an integral part of Zimbabwe, with its development firmly anchored within national priorities.
Speaking during a media engagement hosted by State-owned mobile operator NetOne in Bulawayo yesterday, Minister Moyo commended the company for partnering the Government in communicating and supporting key development initiatives across communities.
He said NetOne’s community-based interventions were accelerating development in Matabeleland North, particularly in education, water provision and social welfare.
“NetOne, in partnership with Government, has successfully contributed to infrastructure development in the education sector, clean water provision through borehole drilling in rural communities, campaigns against drug and substance abuse, as well as sunscreen provision for people living with albinism,” said Minister Moyo.
He noted that improved infrastructure and learning spaces restore dignity to both learners and educators, while affirming Government’s commitment to ensuring that children in rural communities access facilities that inspire confidence, pride and hope.
“The Government is particularly encouraged by NetOne’s alignment with Presidential policy guidance, especially its support for community-based projects that advance education and human capital development,” he said.
Minister Moyo said such initiatives directly support the objectives of the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), which identifies education as a cornerstone for sustainable economic growth and national transformation.
“This initiative speaks directly to NDS2 priorities. I wish to commend NetOne Cellular (Private) Limited for its continued commitment to national development through impactful corporate social investment,” he said.
Minister Moyo added that as a key player in Zimbabwe’s digital economy, NetOne has demonstrated that connectivity must advance alongside development.
“This is development being delivered tower by tower and brick by brick, in line with Government’s inclusive development philosophy,” he said.
The minister also commended President Mnangagwa for his leadership and commitment to national transformation, which continues to guide Zimbabwe towards Vision 2030 of becoming an upper-middle-income economy.
“Government calls upon all stakeholders — communities, school authorities and development partners — to safeguard and maintain these investments so that they benefit future generations. Let us remain united as Government, State-owned enterprises, the private sector and communities in building a prosperous, inclusive and empowered Zimbabwe,” he said.
During the engagement, journalists urged NetOne to prioritise data affordability, improve network connectivity and strengthen partnerships with the media to enhance information dissemination nationwide.
Chronicle Editor, Mr Lawson Mabhena, highlighted the importance of reliable connectivity, drawing comparisons with experiences in other countries.
“Connectivity is key. When we travel outside the country as journalists, the moment you land at an airport you are already connected through Wi-Fi and able to do your work. That remains a challenge locally, including the issue of data affordability,” he said.
Other journalists called for tailor-made data packages for radio stations, noting that such initiatives would help boost listenership, particularly in remote areas.
“When we talk about arts and crafts, it keeps children off the streets. If we had community centres connected with Wi-Fi, it would also help reduce drug and substance abuse,” said one participant.
There were also calls for NetOne to partner with radio stations to expand information dissemination and roll out promotional materials in all 16 official languages to promote inclusivity.
Responding, NetOne Cellular’s Head of Public Relations, Mr Richard Mahomva, said the company is guided by corporate patriotism as a State-owned enterprise.
“Corporate patriotism means engaging and listening to our stakeholders. Our direction is inspired by the leadership of President Mnangagwa, who has consistently emphasised that he is a listening President,” said Mr Mahomva.
“As NetOne, we have humbled ourselves to listen to the people of this region because the people of this region matter.”
