In the heart of Zimbabwe’s rural districts, where the rolling hills often signaled the end of connectivity, a digital revolution is unfolding.
NetOne, the nation’s second-largest mobile operator with over 4.1 million subscribers, has pivoted its strategy to ensure that “no Zimbabwean is left behind” in the burgeoning digital economy.
This is envisaged to be achieved through the acceleration of 4G coverage across the country’s most underserved areas.
Under the leadership of Group CEO Engineer Raphael Mushanawani, the company is executing an ambitious network expansion.
NetOne’s approach to connectivity is holistic, integrating infrastructure with community empowerment.
“NetOne is implementing practical digital inclusion projects across the country, such as ICT labs in rural schools (e.g., Shanagiso Secondary), community ICT hubs, and expansion of 4G coverage in underserved districts,” Eng Mushanawani said.
These initiatives ensure that no Zimbabwean is left behind in the digital economy.
This expansion is part of a broader future-focused strategy to modernize the economy.
By ensuring that every new site commissioned offers at least 4G capability, NetOne is laying the foundation for advanced services like telemedicine, e-learning, and smart agriculture in regions that once struggled with basic 2G signals.
“Through the Digitalise Zimbabwe Roving ICT Expo, NetOne is helping deliver coding programmes, digitrucks, Wi-Fi zones, and digital literacy initiatives,” said Eng Mushanawani.
For NetOne, this acceleration is not merely about market share—
it is a national imperative.
As annual inflation on the ZiG index declined to 4.1% in January 2026, coupled with the seasonal forecasts which show encouraging rainfall prospects across much of the country between December and February, improving prospects for better yields and national food security, the demand for digital financial tools and data connectivity has surged.
By prioritising the remotest parts of the country, NetOne is ensuring that the benefits of economic reform and technological advancement are felt by every citizen, regardless of geography.
