Online Reporter
Nelson Gahadza
Senior Business Reporter
State – owned telecommunications firm, Powertel Communications, says its 2026 growth strategy will be anchored on major capital investments in next-generation network infrastructure, artificial intelligence solutions and expanded broadband connectivity.
This comes as the company seeks to consolidate its turnaround and position itself as Zimbabwe’s national digital backbone.
Presenting the company’s performance and strategic outlook at the annual general meeting, managing director Mr Willard Nyagwande, said Powertel’s priority over the next 12 months would be accelerating network modernisation through the rollout of Long-Term Evolution (LTE) technology, expansion of its high-capacity transmission network and investment in new digital solutions.
“We are solution-oriented and we continue to make sure that the competition respects us by doing the right thing.
“As we look ahead, Powertel is well positioned to become the national backbone company. If we continue investing in this business, we will be able to generate foreign currency from regional operators that continue to demand capacity through Zimbabwe,” he said.
He said the company’s immediate focus would be on completing critical infrastructure projects that will significantly increase network coverage and revenue.
Among the flagship projects is the commercial launch of Powertel’s new LTE network on September 1, 2026, following a US$2,4 million investment to replace its obsolete Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) platform.
Mr Nyagwande said management expects to have 65 LTE base stations installed, configured and generating approximately US$300 000 in monthly revenue once the rollout is completed.
The company is also expanding its footprint into artificial intelligence -enabled services while strengthening its research and development capabilities through innovations such as asset-tracking solutions for vehicles, laptops, solar equipment and livestock.
“We are also working hard to establish a presence in the AI industry as part of our technology innovation strategy.
“Our research and development team continues to develop practical solutions that respond to customer needs while creating new revenue streams,” he said.
The telecommunications provider is simultaneously investing in transmission infrastructure after recently deploying Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) technology, which dramatically increases the volume of data that can be transported across its fibre network.
Mr Nyagwande said the new system has given Powertel the largest equipped transmission capacity between Plumtree and Bulawayo, with active capacity reaching 800 gigabits and infrastructure capable of supporting up to 14 terabits.
