by MARCUS MUSHONGA
HARARE – ECONET Wireless Zimbabwe has rolled out an additional 60 fifth-generation (5G) sites across the country as part of a major network modernisation programme.
Over the past 12 months, Zimbabwe’s largest mobile operator also commissioned 77 new sites, modernised 546 radio access facilities and upgraded 365 microwave links.
To extend coverage to underserved areas, Econet deployed ten lightweight, cost-effective base stations targeting rural communities.
“The additional sites will ensure fast and seamless connectivity for homes and businesses while enhancing the quality of mobile broadband services,” said James Myers, Econet chairman, while presenting the company’s 2025 Integrated Annual Report.
He confirmed Econet had completed a core network upgrade in the second half of the financial year, positioning the business to offer competitive, personalised digital services in line with its growth strategy.
Econet is also investing in energy resilience by upgrading power infrastructure and deploying monitoring systems to optimise battery performance at site level. “These deployments are crucial to ensuring power autonomy and efficiency,” Myers noted.
During the year under review, Econet’s mobile operation recorded a 36% growth in data traffic and a 23% increase in voice usage.
EcoCash, its mobile money arm, grew transaction volumes by 21% and values by 210%.
The company declared a final dividend of US\$0.73 per share for the year ended February 28, 2025. Looking ahead, Econet plans to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into its operations to improve efficiency, expand services and drive revenue growth.
Econet commands more than 70% of Zimbabwe’s mobile market.
— CAJ News
