Online Reporter
Debra Matabvu-Senior Reporter
MODERNISATION of telecommunications infrastructure and expansion of networks across Zimbabwe have driven significant growth in internet and data traffic during the first quarter of this year, Cabinet has noted.
According to the Postal and Telecommunications Sector Performance Report for the first quarter, presented to Cabinet yesterday, internet and data traffic increased by 57,28 percent, largely driven by accelerated long-term evolution (LTE) and 5G infrastructure deployment along with increased smartphone ownership and use.
There was a 2,99 percent increase in active mobile subscriptions and a 1,5 percent rise in mobile penetration.
The report noted that 13 new 5G base stations were deployed during the quarter, bringing the national total to 379.
Speaking after the Cabinet meeting yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said the information and communication technologies and telecommunications sector remained central to Zimbabwe’s digital transformation agenda under the National Development Strategy 2, the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan, the National ICT Policy and the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026-2030).
“Zimbabwe continued to record significant internet and data traffic increase with a remarkable 57,28 percent, driven by accelerated LTE and 5G infrastructure deployment, increased smartphone adoption and use of modern applications including TikTok, Instagram and Netflix,” said the Minister.
“The sector also reported trends including the following: infrastructure modernisation and expansion, with an additional 13 new 5G base stations deployed, bringing the total to 379 bases, together with 161 LTE (Long Term Evolution), 85 3G and 68 2G new base stations.”
Minister Soda commended all players in the sector for accelerating progress and helping to close the connectivity gap, particularly in underserved areas.
He said the country’s fibre network had expanded significantly during the quarter under review.
