ECONET Wireless Zimbabwe (Econet) has deployed 60 fifth-generation (5G) network sites across the country, a move that is set to give the operator a competitive advantage in the telecommunications sector grappling with digital infrastructure gaps. The deployment of these new sites will enable faster data speeds, lower latency, and improved network reliability.

Data and internet services are crucial to the group’s operations, contributing 42 percent of total revenue in the just-ended financial year.

“We successfully completed our core network upgrade in the second half of the financial year. Base station deployment efforts continued with the commissioning of 77 new sites, modernisation of 246 radio access sites, and upgrading of 265 microwave access links,” Econet’s chairman James Myers said in a statement accompanying financials for the year ended February 28, 2025. In addition, the group managed to deploy 10 lightweight, cost-effective base stations designed to provide mobile network coverage in remote, rural areas.

“Crucially, over the past 12 months, Econet undertook a significant reorganisation of its mobile network operator (MNO) and fintech businesses, aimed at driving growth, efficiency and innovation. This strategic transformation has yielded the intended benefits, positioning us for continued success,” said Myers, underlining that they are set to focus on leveraging the strengths of the integrated businesses to deliver enhanced value to stakeholders.

Consequently, MNO recorded a year-on-year growth in data and voice traffic of 36 percent and 23 percent, respectively. “This growth was enabled by our modernised network, our ability to innovate and offer services that address the evolving needs of our customers,” stated Myers.

The group’s earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation margin softened to 47 percent from 48 percent. The improved revenue performance enabled the business to continue to invest in network infrastructure, a catalyst to drive revenue growth and data usage, which is forecast to continue on an upward trajectory in line with global trends.

Myers added that they are looking to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) into their processes to enhance operational efficiencies and drive cost productivity. “Looking ahead, leveraging innovation and deepening AI infusion into our operations to enhance operational and cost efficiencies will position the group to grow, diversify our product and service offering and drive revenue growth whilst protecting our margins,” he stated.

Going forward, the company will continue to make investments in digital transformation, embracing new technologies and actively pursuing strategic opportunities to enhance and complement its product portfolio. “By harnessing the power of AI, we aim to create seamless experiences for our customers across all business segments,” said Myers.