derick.khumalo
Nqobile Bhebhe [email protected]
Zesa Holdings’ telecommunications subsidiary, Powertel Communications, has commissioned the first phase of the Plumtree-Victoria Falls High-Capacity Backbone Upgrade Project, with the network going live today at an initial capacity of 800 gigabits as part of a planned 14-terabyte backbone.
Speaking during a media briefing in Bulawayo, Powertel Communications board chairperson Mrs Miriam Chahuruva said the milestone marks a major step in strengthening Zimbabwe’s digital infrastructure and advancing the country’s economic transformation agenda.
The upgraded backbone is expected to significantly improve the country’s telecommunications capacity, supporting businesses, Government institutions and consumers with faster, more reliable connectivity.
“Today is a demonstration of the shared commitment between the Government, our stakeholders, strategic partners and stakeholders to build resilient infrastructure that supports national development and economic transformation,” said Mrs Chahuruva.
“Today’s launch marks the successful completion of the first phase of the Plumtree-Victoria Falls High-Capacity Backbone Upgrade Project.”
She said the project underscores the board’s commitment to ensuring Powertel continues investing in modern telecommunications infrastructure.
“This achievement reflects the board’s commitment to providing strategic oversight that enables Powertel to invest in modern infrastructure, strengthen its commercial position and deliver sustainable value to our shareholder and the nation,” she said.
Mrs Chahuruva said the backbone upgrade represents a dramatic increase in network capacity compared to previous years.
“To be more specific on this one, we are moving from 3 gig in 2022 to 14 terabytes, which will come live in phases and today we are looking at 800 gig, which is now live,” she said.
She noted that digital infrastructure has become a key enabler of economic growth, innovation and competitiveness.
“As a board, we recognize that digital infrastructure has become an indispensable driver of economic growth.
“Reliable high-capacity telecommunications networks are essential for powering innovation, supporting smart energy systems, enabling digital public services and strengthening Zimbabwe’s competitiveness within the regional and global economy,” she said.
Mrs Chahuruva also acknowledged the support of Powertel’s shareholder, the Mutapa Investment Fund.
“Allow me to express the board’s sincere appreciation to our shareholder, the Mutapa Investment Fund, for its strategic guidance, confidence and unwavering support as we continue to unlock value from these important national assets,” she said.
The company, a subsidiary of Zesa Holdings, remains one of Zimbabwe’s key telecommunications providers, leveraging the electricity utility’s extensive infrastructure to deliver internet, data and voice services to Government institutions, corporates, small and medium enterprises and residential customers.
The backbone upgrade is expected to enhance the country’s digital ecosystem by increasing network capacity and resilience, providing the infrastructure needed to support e-government services, digital financial platforms, remote learning, smart energy systems and the growing digital needs of productive sectors such as mining, agriculture, manufacturing and tourism.
The project is also aligned with Government’s broader digital transformation strategy, which seeks to expand broadband connectivity, improve access to ICT services and position Zimbabwe as a competitive digital economy within the region.
Online Reporter