Key Points
- Econet 5G expansion adds 60 new sites across Zimbabwe.
- EcoCash’s 210 percent rise in transaction values boosted growth.
- Masiyiwa aims to combine 5G expansion with AI services.
Strive Masiyiwa’s Econet Wireless Zimbabwe is pushing deeper into 5G, switching on 60 new sites across the country.
The rollout is part of a bigger plan to modernize its network and secure its lead in Zimbabwe’s fast-growing telecom market.
Econet 5G expansion widens national coverage
Econet also installed 77 new base stations, upgraded 546 radio units, and modernized 365 microwave links. To reach rural areas, it built 10 lightweight stations designed for hard-to-connect communities.
“These additional sites will ensure faster and more seamless connectivity for homes and businesses,” Chairman James Myers said, noting that a core network upgrade now allows more tailored services.
Digital payments drive stronger growth
In the year ended Feb. 28, 2025, data traffic increased by 36 percent and voice usage by 23 percent. EcoCash, its mobile money platform, saw a 21 percent rise in transactions and a 210 percent surge in transaction values.
According to a report by Billionaires.Africa, Econet paid out a final dividend worth nearly $19 million, balancing investment with steady shareholder returns.
Masiyiwa pairs 5G expansion with AI
Masiyiwa, who controls 52.85 percent of Econet, has kept the company focused on digital innovation. With more than 14 million subscribers and over 70 percent market share, Econet now plans to bring artificial intelligence into its operations to improve efficiency and expand services.
