NetOne eyes growth despite snags

NETONE is targeting growth as it pushes ahead with a network expansion program targeting underserved communities and aligning with the government’s 2030 digital economy vision.
The mobile operator’s chief executive, Raphael Mushanawani confirmed the initiative, primarily funded by internal resources, in an interview with The Financial Gazette.
“We’re deploying base stations in identified marginalised areas,” he said, emphasising the government’s “leave no one behind” goal.
While utilising internally generated funds, the company hasn’t abandoned its US$71 million government-backed mobile broadband project.
Deploying the remaining base stations from this project remains a priority, Mushanawani said.
He highlighted the successful network upgrade in December 2023, which he says led to “a large improvement in data service.”
He reiterated the company’s focus on expanding data coverage across Zimbabwe, aiming to become a key provider of “digital telecommunications.”
This network expansion aligns with the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe’s (Potraz) praise for the telecom sector’s resilience despite foreign currency challenges.
Finance Minister Mthuli Ncube’s 2024 budget allocation of $185,3 billion to the ICT ministry further underscores the government’s commitment to digitalisation.
NetOne currently sees a 51-49 percent revenue split between data and voice, respectively, indicating voice’s continued relevance. However, with data usage surging, the company is seeking tariff adjustments from Potraz, acknowledging potential public resistance.
“Data remains subeconomic in our region,” Mushanawani argued, justifying the request for tariff revisions. newsdesk@fingaz.co.zw