The ManicaPost
Post Reporter
STATE-OWNED mobile communications giant NetOne’s subscriber base has increased to nearly 14 million, marking a three percent growth.
Statistics released by Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) in the Sector Performance Report for the third quarter in 2021 show that NetOne enjoyed a 3,4 percent increase in subscriptions to 13 935 233 (September) from 13 481 527 as at June 30, 2021.
Its mobile penetration rate also grew by 2,2 percent to reach 93,5 percent in the third quarter from 91,3 percent recorded in the second quarter.
NetOne recorded the highest growth rate of 6,3 percent among local operators in the sector.
In a statement, NetOne said: “As part of our efforts to positively contribute towards Vision 2030 and make Zimbabwe an upper-middle class economy, we have taken a deliberate thrust to increase our subscriber base. This is in line with the National Development Strategy’s (NDS1) pursuit to digitalise the economy and facilitate the easy access to Information Communication Technology (ICTs) in rural communities.
“ICTs are at the heart of development of the Zimbabwean economy and we are directing our efforts towards ensuring connectivity. We are continuing to invest in infrastructure so as to enhance increased network coverage in previously marginalised areas.”
The growth trajectory has been sustained by the growth in infrastructure against competition.
“The same POTRAZ quarterly report for the postal and telecommunications sector indicates that NetOne has gained a market share of 2G, 3G and LTE by 0,1 percent, 0,4 percent and 2,2 percent respectively,” reads the statement.
NetOne chief executive, Mr Raphael Mushanawani said they are committed to their mandate as the public’s digital communication solutions partner.
“In the third quarter of 2021 we deployed a total of over 50 new base stations. Recently the company introduced new innovations on the market driven by smart technologies.
“NetOne has been continuously enhancing its product and services portfolio to suit the lifestyle of its customers. We are happy to have added a number of innovations into the basket this last quarter,” said Mr Mushanawani.
He said their innovation drive has seen them introducing OneMoney Remit, a much needed financial inclusion solution that has made domestic forex remittance possible.
Other smart solutions include an e-agriculture platform that supports the farming community. Another innovation is a platform that allows customers to get smart health solutions on the go.
“We appreciate the times that we are in, especially regarding the effects of Covid-19. Our commitment to enhancing digital literacy saw us launching a platform for university students to access e-learning. NetOne has also staked its claim in the hugely profitable mobile gaming market,” he said.
Mr Mushanawani said they are geared to embrace the digital era, adding that they are committed to equipping future generations with relevant ICT solutions.
