Econet Wireless Zimbabwe won the Best Overall Stand in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector at the 2025 Zimbabwe Agricultural Show (ZAS).

Organisers and judges said the award recognised the country’s leading telecommunications and technology company’s outstanding exhibition stand, which captivated the thousands of visitors who thronged the stand throughout the week-long event.

Now in its 115th year, ZAS remains the country’s largest annual business showcase held in Harare, bringing together players from the agriculture, industry, commerce, technology and community development sectors.

This year’s edition ran under the theme Building Bridges: Connecting Agriculture, Industry and Community — a theme that resonated strongly with Econet’s innovative culture and forward-looking exhibition.

The listed company’s double-storey stand, a fusion of sleek design and cutting-edge digital solutions, was one of the show’s standout attractions.

Visitors experienced live demonstrations of the company’s super-fast 5G technology  and its use cases, Internet of Things (IoT) applications, immersive virtual reality experiences, intelligent AI-powered chatbots and next-generation customer engagement platforms.

The showcase offered a bold glimpse into the future of connected living and enterprise, where technology helps scale businesses and enhance productivity and sustainability.

The holistic display reflected the company’s vision of leveraging technology to empower individuals, transform businesses, and support Zimbabwe’s national development agenda.

Econet’s recognition at ZAS also underscores the critical role the company continues to play in the ICT sector in bridging the gap between agriculture and industry through technology and digital transformation.

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, the country’s leading mobile telecommunication and technology company, says it is once again exhibiting at the 115th edition of the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show (ZAS) which opened in Harare yesterday and runs for a week.

ZAS, the country’s premier agricultural and business exhibition event, is this year running under the theme “Building Bridges: Connecting Agriculture, Industry & Community”.

The event, which last year attracted more than 250 000 visitors and featured over 560 exhibitors, serves as a vital platform for showcasing innovation, building partnerships, and driving national economic growth.

Through a spokesman, Econet said its participation at this year’s show underscores its commitment to empowering communities and businesses through cutting-edge technology.

“The Zimbabwe Agricultural Show provides an opportunity to directly engage with hundreds of thousands of our customers, get their feedback by listening to them, and showcase how our products and services are continuously evolving to meet their needs,” the Econet spokesman said.

He noted that the company would be showcasing its digital communication and connectivity products, its financial technology (fintech) services, and its insurance and entertainment products, among many others.

“At our stand, visitors can engage in an interactive experience across our broad product portfolio which includes our flagship EcoCash mobile money platform, our Moovah Insurance suite – which covers personal, agricultural, logistics and business risks – and a whole range of digital entertainment and gaming products,” the spokesman said.

Econet will also be showcasing new technologies designed to transform agriculture and water management, including Smart Water Meters.

“These provide real-time data that helps farmers and water utilities manage water resources more efficiently, reduce water waste, improve customer service, and ensure the sustainable use of water,” he said.

Smart Water Meters are believed to be a game-changer in modern agriculture as they allow farmers and communities to monitor and optimise their water use.

Industry experts say Econet’s presence at ZAS reflects the growing intersection between technology and agriculture.

With agriculture contributing a significant share of Zimbabwe’s GDP, digital solutions in connectivity, mobile payments, insurance and water management are becoming indispensable.

Independent analyst Tafadzwa Moyo said the introduction of Smart Water Meters demonstrates a forward-thinking approach.

“Agriculture today cannot thrive without technology. Farmers need reliable communication, access to markets, financial services, risk protection – and increasingly, smart infrastructure. Products such as Smart Water Meters address one of the most pressing issues for farmers: water efficiency. This is a powerful example of how technology can secure the future of agriculture,” he said.

Econet Wireless Limited, a publicly traded telecoms giant, is sharpening its focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation to boost efficiency, diversify services, and drive revenue growth, Business Times can report.

Board chairman Jim Myers said Econet will continue to make significant investments in emerging technologies to strengthen its portfolio and deliver seamless customer experiences across all business segments.

“Looking ahead, leveraging innovation and deepening AI infusion into our operations to enhance operational cost efficiencies will position the group to grow, diversify our product and service offering and drive revenue growth whilst protecting our margins.

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

The company has accelerated its network modernisation drive, commissioning 77 new 4G base stations, upgrading 365 microwave access links, and modernising 546 radio access sites.

Econet also deployed 60 5G sites nationwide, marking a major step in positioning Zimbabwe for a high-speed, next-generation digital future.

Myers said the group’s investment thrust was anchored on strengthening its network backbone and ensuring that customers and businesses benefit from fast, reliable, and modern connectivity.

“We successfully completed our core network upgrade in the second half of the financial year, strategically positioning the mobile network business to offer new, competitive and personalised services which anchor the digital strategy of the business.

“Our base station deployment efforts continued with the commissioning of 77 new sites, modernisation of 546 radio access sites and upgrading of 365 microwave access links. In addition, 60 5G sites deployed nationwide in the last quarter of the financial year strengthened our capabilities.

“The additional sites will ensure fast and seamless connectivity for homes and businesses while giving enhanced quality of service for our mobile broadband customers,” Myers said.

Econet’s mobile money business, EcoCash, also registered significant growth in transaction volumes and values, buoyed by increased customer activity and higher wallet funding.

With the combined thrust of AI-driven innovation, network expansion, and digital transformation, Econet is positioning itself to remain a leader in Zimbabwe’s fast-evolving digital economy.

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe continues to invest in renewable energy solutions and green technologies to power its business, to reduce green house gas (GHG) emissions and enhance the sustainability of its operations. The company said global warming was increasingly negatively impacting the telecommunications industry, driving up operational costs through higher energy demand for cooling infrastructure.

“The impacts of global warming contribute to rising temperatures, which, in turn, increase the energy demand for cooling telecommunications equipment. This elevates operational costs and intensifies energy consumption.

“Drought conditions, such as those affecting the Kariba Dam, reduce hydroelectricity generation, necessitating greater reliance on diesel generators for backup power, leading to both increased costs and higher GHG emissions,” Econet said in its 2025 annual report.

To counter the effects, Econet has rolled out a multi-pronged energy strategy centred on renewable energy integration, efficiency upgrades and sustainability-aligned supply chain management.

“Our management approach includes investing in green technologies and renewable energy solutions, which have created business opportunities and employment. Our standby diesel generators operate within specified emissions thresholds and do not significantly contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

“Furthermore, we have implemented sustainability screening processes for suppliers and partners to ensure alignment with our environmental policies. A key focus area of our sustainability strategy is transitioning to renewable energy for network operations toreduce GHG emissions,” the company said.

So far, Econet has deployed 380 solar-powered sites, producing 3 315 815 kWh of power and avoiding an estimated 3,249 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) emissions from solar PV generation.

“In addition to solar integration, we are implementing energy-efficient technologies and best practices to optimise power consumption,” the company added.

In its financial year (FY25), Econet revealed that total annual energy consumption stood at 872 970 976 megajoules (MJ).

Diesel fuel dominated the energy mix at 82,7 percent, followed by electricity at 16,4 percent, petrol at 0,8 percent and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) at 0,02 percent.

“The significant reliance on diesel, which has a higher energy density compared to petrol and LPG, underscores its central role in our operations.

“However, this dependency also presents opportunities to explore alternative energy sources and enhance energy efficiency to reduceour environmental impact,” Econet said.

As part of its climate action roadmap, the business has set ambitious carbon reduction targets.

“We have set ambitious targets, aiming to reduce our carbon footprint by 30 percent by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

“The transition to renewable energy is evident, with 282 sites and 8 offices now powered by solar energy. Battery upgrades have been completed at 467 sites to enhance energy efficiency.

“The business is also actively engaged in disaster recovery efforts, community resilience projects and infrastructure restoration programmes, such as its involvement in road reconstruction following Cyclone Idai,” Econet said.

The telecoms giant said its renewable energy programme not only reduces environmental impact but also contributes to national efforts to expand clean energy adoption and climate resilience.

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has expanded its popular smartphone credit scheme, Kancane Kancane, by extending the repayment period from just three months to up to 24 months – with no initial deposit required.

The move is set make smartphones significantly more affordable through the flexible repayment options of 6, 12, 18 and up to 24 months, with monthly instalments starting from as little as US$3.28 – depending on the device selected.

Econet said the scheme is open to all salaried individuals – including civil servants, teachers, nurses, students and young professionals – and is designed to help bridge the country’s digital divide

“We’re giving our valued customers the chance to step into the digital world without the burden of high upfront costs,” the company said in a statement.

As mobile banking, e-learning, online shopping, telehealth and remote working become increasingly central to daily life, the high cost of smartphones remains a barrier for many.

According to the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), smartphone penetration stood at just 55% at the end of 2024, leaving nearly half the population digitally excluded.

But by eliminating the deposit requirement and stretching repayment terms to two years, Econet is ensuring that even low-income earners and rural communities – where affordability remains a major challenge – get to participate in the digital economy.

To access the Kancane Kancane smartphone credit facility, customers should simply visit any Econet Shop nationwide, undergo quick eligibility checks, and thereafter choose from a wide selection of smartphones – ranging from entry-level models to high-end devices.

The expansion of the scheme is expected to have a huge impact on Zimbabwe’s digital inclusion efforts, particularly as more services and platforms transition online. Customers are also encouraged to protect their new devices with Econet’s Moovah Mobile Phone Insurance, available from just US$1.23 per month, which covers accidental damage and quick repairs or replacement.

ECONET Wireless Zimbabwe on Friday handed over four residential smart homes, four brand-new cars and eight solar power systems to lucky winners of its 2024 ‘iJoy afta Joy’ Christmas Promotion.The life-changing prizes were presented at a ceremony held in Penrose, Nyabira, where winners received keys to their new homes and to brand-new vehicles.

Speaking at the event, Econet Deputy CEO Mr Roy Chimanikire, said the promotion was part of the company’s efforts to bring real and lasting joy to its customers, in line with its commitment to transforming lives.

“This campaign was more than just a festive celebration – it was about delivering real value and joy to our customers. It’s our way of saying ‘Thank you’ to the millions of Zimbabweans who walk this journey with us,” said Mr Chimanikire. “We are not only handing over houses and vehicles – we are handing over hope, dignity, and a fresh start for entire families.”

He explained that the promotion, which ran from December 2024 to February 2025, formed part of Econet’s broader strategy to reward customer loyalty whilst promoting clean, sustainable energy through the inclusion of solar systems.

For Loveness Zimwenje, who won one of the four smart houses, fully equipped with solar and security systems, the moment was almost surreal.

“I still feel like I’m dreaming. I never thought something like this could happen to someone like me,” she said. “People always doubt these promotions – but look at me now. I am living proof that it’s for real. If you ever hear the word ‘promotion’ and ‘Econet’ in the same sentence, don’t even hesitate. Participate – and your life could change overnight.”

“I’m forever grateful to Econet, to everyone who came to support us, and to Leengate for building us such beautiful homes.”

Tapiwanashe Magaya, who drove away in a brand-new Suzuki S-Presso, said his life had taken a dramatic and unexpected turn.

“To be honest, I thought this was one of those things you only see on TV – never in real life,” he said. “But today, the impossible became possible. When I held those car keys in my hand, I realised this wasn’t luck – it was Econet recognising our loyalty.”

The Suzuki S-Presso is a compact city car known for its fuel efficiency and manoeuvrability in urban environments. It features a 1.0-litre engine and is available with both manual and automatic transmissions.

Vimbai Chako, the youngest house winner at just 27, could not hide her disbelief and pride.

“I still can’t process it. This is nothing short of a miracle,” she said. “Econet has given me a future I never imagined. I can’t wait to decorate every room and make memories here.”

For Raphael Murambiwa Motsi, winning a complete solar energy system wasn’t just about convenience, it was about independence.

“When I heard I’d won a solar system, I thought maybe a small panel – just something basic,” he recalled. “But what I received is a full solar solution. It means freedom from blackouts, from power bills, from worrying whether my children can do their homework at night. It’s more than a prize. It’s a lifestyle upgrade. Thank you, Econet, for lighting up our homes – and our lives.”

Since the launch of the annual Christmas Promotion in 2019, Econet has given away over US$1,75 million worth of prizes, including 12 smart homes, 16 residential stands, 48 solar systems, 5 brand-new cars, 5 holiday packages, and over 10 000 customers have won cash, stoves, fridges, holiday packages, airtime bundles, and many more.

The 2025 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon – held in the resort town over the weekend – attracted more than 5 200 runners from 40 countries across the world, underlining its role as a key driver for Zimbabwe’s world-class, sporting tourism destination status. Participants from as far afield as Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Australia, Kenya and South Africa converged on the resort town – which attained city status in 2020 – for the annual race, held against the backdrop of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

For many – such as returning French runner Marie Dubois – the Econet Victoria Falls Marathon has become an annual pilgrimage. “This is my third time running here, and every year I’m blown away by the hospitality, the organisation, and the unforgettable magic of this place,” she said.

A spokesperson for a UK-based team of runners fundraising for Play it Forward, a charity that uses football to uplift vulnerable children in Zambia, said they were using the goodwill generated by the Marathon to mobilise support for worthy causes. “The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon has become a beacon of global goodwill. We are using this platform to raise awareness and support for programmes focused on education, health and gender equality,” the group said.

Kenya’s long distance runner Rosina Kiboina, who won the female veterans’ full marathon in a time of 2 hours, 57 minutes and 6 seconds, commended the positive energy around the Marathon. “The atmosphere here is different. You can feel the energy of the Falls and the people pushing you forward,” said Kiboina. Kiboina competed in veterans’ marathon category — reserved for runners aged between 40 to 49 years. She remarkably secured fifth place in the overall women’s 42km marathon, earning widespread praise for her endurance and humility.

Meanwhile, the marathon brought a significant boost to the local economy, with hotels, lodges, and restaurants operating at full capacity and local shops and vendors reporting brisk business throughout the weekend.

Victoria Falls Mayor, Councillor Prince Moyo, lauded the event’s positive impact on the tourism sector. “This marathon is now a fixture on the global athletics calendar. It strengthens our brand as a must-visit destination while creating jobs and business opportunities for our residents,” he said, speaking soon after the Marathon on Sunday. “Victoria Falls has buzzed with energy this week as over 5 000 runners from more than 40 countries joined us for this iconic event. Your participation has showcased our world-class talent and highlighted our wildlife, adventure, hospitality and cultural treasures, delivering a vital boost to our local tourism businesses,” said the Mayor of the host city.