The landscape of internet connectivity in Zimbabwe is about to change dramatically, as state-owned telecommunications company TelOne embarks on an ambitious expansion of its 4G LTE network.
This ambitious project promises to bring faster, more reliable internet access to a wider segment of the population, potentially transforming the country’s digital landscape.
The company has already made significant progress, with 12 sites already equipped with 4G LTE technology, including key locations within Harare.
These include Budiriro, Glen Norah, Mufakose, Chitungwiza’s Unit J, Hatfield, Boka, the new Parliament building and the Harare Main Exchange, which features advanced Massive MIMO antenna technology.
“This expansion is a significant milestone for the State-owned telecoms company, which has been working to upgrade its legacy copper infrastructure and better meet the growing demand for high-speed mobile data across the country,” stated TelOne’s Acting Commercial Director, Maureen Chirambaguhwa.
This network expansion goes beyond Harare, with TelOne setting its sights on bringing 4G LTE to other major cities and towns across Zimbabwe, including Bulawayo, Beitbridge, Gweru, Kwekwe, Mutare, Masvingo and Victoria Falls.
“This is an important step forward in TelOne’s mission to bridge the digital divide and connect all Zimbabweans to fast, reliable internet,” Chirambaguhwa added. “The 4G LTE network will empower communities with new opportunities for e-commerce, education and innovation.”
The company’s ambitious plan is to have a nationwide 4G presence by the end of 2025, with the rollout taking place in phases.
Once completed, TelOne’s 4G LTE network will significantly expand high-speed mobile broadband access, reaching a much larger segment of Zimbabwe’s population.
The announcement by TelOne comes at a time when Zimbabwe is set to experience a major leap forward in connectivity, with another telecoms giant, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, partnering with US communications technology firm Globalstar to deliver advanced 5G solutions across the country, Africa, the Middle East, and the Gulf region.
This game-changing partnership will see Liquid gain exclusive rights to sell and distribute Globalstar’s XCOM RAN private networks 5G access solution in these regions. XCOM Radio Access Network is a multipoint radio system that delivers high capacity and flexibility, making it ideal for private wireless networks. It boasts four times the capacity and superior performance compared to other systems.
