Some Rural Areas Still Have Limited Cellphone Network Coverage in Zimbabwe

ICT and Tech Correspondent

A recent report by the Portfolio Committee on Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) has highlighted significant issues with mobile network coverage in rural areas of Zimbabwe, particularly in Manama.

Manama is located around the Gwanda District, in Matabeleland South Province near Kafusi.

Residents in these regions are increasingly relying on foreign networks from Botswana due to inadequate local service, raising serious security concerns.

During visits to rural areas such as Manama, Gachegache, and Zibungululu, the committee found that limited mobile and internet connectivity is exacerbated by frequent power outages, high data costs, and poor management of base stations.

The report emphasizes the urgent need for government intervention and policy reforms to address these connectivity gaps.

In Manama, the reliance on Botswana networks not only undermines Zimbabwe’s telecommunications sovereignty but also poses security risks, as noted in the report.

Residents in Gachegache have also expressed concerns about network accessibility and have proposed the establishment of a citizen-operator engagement platform to monitor service delivery.

Power outages have been identified as a major obstacle affecting the functionality of base stations, which in turn impacts the reliability of telecommunications services. While generators are used as backups, they are often inadequate for prolonged outages. The report criticized the management of base stations, particularly by Telecel Zimbabwe, which is struggling operationally and financially.

The committee has made several recommendations to enhance mobile and internet connectivity:

1. Infrastructure Sharing: Adoption of a robust policy framework for infrastructure sharing to address coordination and resource challenges.
2. Tax Reforms: Review of high taxes on ICT equipment and gadgets to facilitate infrastructure development. Tax rebates on ICT devices could help operators lower operational costs.
3. Licensing Fees: Reduction of high licensing fees for internet and mobile service providers to encourage competition and innovation in the market.
4. Alternative Energy Sources: Encouragement of mobile network operators to install solar power systems for base stations to mitigate the impact of power outages.
5. New Technologies: Embrace new technologies like Starlink to enhance internet connectivity while protecting existing telecommunications players.
6. Fast-Tracking 4G and 5G Rollout: Prioritizing the rollout of 4G and 5G networks, especially in remote areas, to improve connectivity.
7. Citizen Engagement: Establishing platforms for citizens to voice concerns and assess network challenges, with a target completion date set for December 2025.

The report underscores the critical need for immediate action to improve telecommunications infrastructure in Zimbabwe, particularly in rural areas like Manama.

By addressing the challenges of network coverage, power outages, and high costs, the government can enhance connectivity and security for its citizens, ultimately fostering greater economic development and social inclusion.

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