Powertel Communications, a subsidiary of ZESA (Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority), has disclosed that it plans to invest upwards of US$50 million into expanding its fibre network to improve rural connectivity across the country.
Acting commercial director Prosper Mutswiri told NewsDay Business: “In terms of network expansion, we have got a serial digital interface and many other network-related expansion projects that we are also rolling out in terms of investment that is expected. So, this is what we have done in terms of recapitalising the business.”
Mutswiri noted that the firm is exploring other investment opportunities under Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 initiative, with a primary focus on delivering connectivity to areas that receive little to no service. He noted that PowerTel’s work is being carried out alongside an upgrade to ZESA’s electricity supply network as it expands its grid.
“During total electrification, we are rolling out fibre, so be it Dotito, Chendambuya or all the marginalised communities or unconnected areas, will be connected to the internet, so you will have both electricity and internet…We recently launched it in Mutema, we launched it in Bulawayo and we are launching it countrywide to be able to connect all the unconnected areas.”
CommsUpdate reports that Powertel currently operates 3000km of fibre backbone, which connects Zimbabwe to international submarine cables via gateways in Botswana and Mozambique.
