Online ReporterGibson Mhaka, [email protected]
NETONE is positioning itself as a strategic enabler of Zimbabwe’s digital transformation agenda through investments in connectivity, innovation and infrastructure development that are supporting the country’s march towards Vision 2030, the company’s group chief executive officer, Engineer Raphael Mushanawani, has said.
Speaking in an interview after being named Overall Platinum Winner and Best CEO at the Zimbabwe CEOs Network Awards, Eng Mushanawani said telecommunications had become a critical pillar of national development, with digital connectivity now underpinning every sector of the economy.
He said NetOne’s mandate extends beyond providing telecommunications services to building the digital infrastructure required to drive productivity, innovation and economic growth.
“NetOne is more than a telecommunications operator. We are a strategic enabler of Zimbabwe’s digital future,” said Eng Mushanawani.
“Connectivity today underpins every sector of the economy, from agriculture and mining to education, healthcare, tourism and financial services. Our responsibility is to build the digital infrastructure that supports productivity, innovation and competitiveness.”
He said the company remained committed to accelerating digital transformation and expanding access to connectivity in both urban and rural communities as Zimbabwe advances towards an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.
“As Zimbabwe advances towards Vision 2030, NetOne remains committed to playing a leading role in accelerating digital transformation and economic development,” he said.
The telecommunications giant has in recent years intensified efforts to modernise its infrastructure, improve network coverage and drive digital inclusion, particularly in underserved communities.
Eng Mushanawani said the true measure of the company’s success was not simply the infrastructure deployed but the impact it was having on the lives of ordinary Zimbabweans.
“What makes me proud is not only the infrastructure we have deployed or the technologies we have introduced, but the impact those investments are having on people’s lives,” he said.
“Every connected school, every digitally empowered entrepreneur, every rural community brought into the digital ecosystem represents meaningful progress.”
He added that telecommunications had evolved beyond communication and was now a catalyst for economic empowerment and inclusive growth.
“We are proving that telecommunications is not merely about connectivity; it is about creating opportunities, unlocking potential and enabling inclusive growth,” he said.
Eng Mushanawani also paid tribute to the Government for creating an enabling environment that has allowed institutions such as NetOne to innovate and grow.
He said the Second Republic’s emphasis on digitalisation, innovation and industrialisation had provided a strong foundation for the growth of the telecommunications sector.
“Government’s commitment to digitalisation has created an enabling environment for institutions such as NetOne to innovate and grow,” he said.
“Under the leadership of His Excellency, President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe has placed significant emphasis on innovation, industrialisation and digital transformation as drivers of economic development.”
Eng Mushanawani said NetOne was proud to be contributing towards the national vision through investments that connect communities, empower businesses and create opportunities for citizens.
“As NetOne, we are proud to contribute towards that national vision through investments that connect communities, empower businesses and create opportunities for citizens,” he said.
He also acknowledged the role being played by the Mutapa Investment Fund in strengthening governance and performance across State-owned enterprises.
“The Mutapa Investment Fund has played an important strategic role in strengthening governance, accountability and value creation across State-Owned Enterprises,” said Eng Mushanawani.
“Under the leadership of Dr John Mangudya, there has been a strong emphasis on ensuring that national assets operate efficiently, sustainably and in a manner that contributes meaningfully to economic development.”
He said the strategic support had helped reinforce NetOne’s focus on innovation, operational excellence and long-term value creation.
Looking ahead, Eng Mushanawani expressed optimism about the future of telecommunications in Zimbabwe, citing emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, cloud computing and the Internet of Things as key drivers of economic transformation.
“The future is incredibly exciting,” he said.
“Emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, cloud computing and advanced digital services are reshaping economies around the world. Our focus is to ensure that Zimbabwe is not merely a consumer of technology but an active participant in the digital economy.”
He said NetOne would continue investing in future-ready infrastructure to ensure Zimbabwe remains competitive in an increasingly digital global economy.
Reflecting on the company’s transformation journey, Eng Mushanawani said the greatest reward was witnessing the positive impact of connectivity on communities and businesses.
“When you visit a rural community that has just received connectivity, when you see young entrepreneurs building businesses through digital platforms, or when you witness technology improving access to education and information, you realise that the work we do has a direct impact on people’s lives,” he said.
“That sense of purpose is what motivates me every day.”
He said leadership was ultimately about creating value for society and building institutions capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.
“Success is measured by impact. It is about the institutions we strengthen, the opportunities we create, the people we empower and the legacy we leave behind,” he said.
“Financial performance is important because it enables sustainability, but true success is reflected in the positive contribution we make to society.”
