Econet launches dedicated AI unit to drive digital transformation

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Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has officially launched Econet AI, a new business unit aimed at accelerating the adoption of artificial intelligence across Zimbabwe’s economy.

 

Unveiled in Harare yesterday, Econet AI immediately introduced a suite of products and capabilities designed to accelerate AI use across the market, in multiple sectors, by corporate organizations and individuals. During the launch, Econet AI announced an exciting offer to Econet customers – starting in May (next month) – of free six-months access to Google Gemini, one of the world’s most advanced AI platforms. Google Gemini uses advanced multimodal generative AI models that simultaneously process, understand and create content across multiple data types – such as text, images, audio, video and code. Econet AI also introduced Cassava AiCloud, a platform that will give Zimbabwean enterprises access to high-performance computing, powered by NVIDIA GPUs – the super high-speed processors that can handle complex and multiple tasks simultaneously. The infrastructure is hosted at the Cassava AI Factory in South Africa, currently the only facility of its kind on the African continent.

 

Delegates to the launch included ICT, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera – who was guest of honour – senior government officials, regulators, business leaders, equipment vendors and partners, suppliers and clients of the Econet group.
Econet Group Chief Executive Officer Douglas Mboweni earlier revealed that the AI unit had been evolving quietly over the past five years as an internal innovation hub.

 

“We have been using and applying artificial intelligence within our own operations – improving customer experience, optimising network performance and enhancing decision-making across the business,” he said. “Our experience shows that AI is a remarkable technology that every business should be deploying. It dramatically reduces costs and has the potential to significantly grow revenue.”

Econet InfraCo lifts VFEX market cap

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Econet InfraCo’s maiden trading on the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange has materially lifted the exchange’s market capitalisation, adding just over US$900 million in equity value and pushing total market cap to approximately US$3.88 billion. The stock closed its first session at US$0.30 per share, before rising to US$0.33 by close of Wednesday trading, accounting for roughly 23% of the overall market value. This follows the strategic spin-off from Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, where infrastructure assets including telecom towers, energy assets and key property holdings were separated into a dedicated platform.

 

Strategically, the listing significantly strengthens VFEX’s scale, liquidity and product diversification, with exchange leadership highlighting the transaction as an important step toward deeper regional capital market relevance. The structure allows existing Econet shareholders to retain both direct and indirect exposure, while positioning InfraCo as a stable, yield-oriented infrastructure vehicle focused on long-term returns and expansion across critical sectors of the economy. For board-level interpretation, this reinforces both investor confidence in the InfraCo platform and VFEX’s growing stature as a regional capital formation hub.

Ericsson and Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Partner to Advance AI-Powered Networks in Zimbabwe

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Ericsson and Econet Wireless Zimbabwe have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona, Spain to design, test and deploy next-generation mobile services in Zimbabwe powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI), 5G Advanced and enhanced network security.

 

The joint innovation programs will include initial focus areas such as AI-driven radio access network (RAN) optimization and energy-efficient network evolution, 5G Advanced features, AI-driven RAN, exposed network APIs, network slicing and Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled services to enhance network performance, drive service reliability, and boost user experiences.

 

The collaboration will deliver practical solutions that support Zimbabwe’s national sustainability goals while enabling Econet’s continued network growth. Ericsson and Econet will deploy AI driven network optimization and automation to enhance energy performance and improve operational efficiency. Moreover, deploying energy efficient LTE and 5G solutions, and network architectures will reduce carbon footprint while expanding coverage and capacity

 

By combining advanced connectivity with automation and security capabilities, the collaboration aims to support Zimbabwe’s national ICT Policy 2022 – 2027 by enabling wider digital inclusion and facilitating new and improved digital services across sectors such as education, healthcare, enterprise and industry digitalization.
The collaboration is expected to improve network capacity, energy efficiency, and service reliability across key urban and rural areas.

 

“This memorandum of understanding with Ericsson reflects our continued focus on evolving our network capabilities to meet growing customer expectations and national digital priorities. By exploring AI-driven automation, advanced connectivity and sustainable network solutions, we aim to enhance service performance while enabling new digital opportunities across Zimbabwe.”

 

– Roy Chimanikire, Deputy CEO, Econet Zimbabwe
“Together with Econet Zimbabwe, we are advancing the evolution toward intelligent, programmable and more sustainable networks in the country. By leveraging Ericsson’s leadership in programmable and AI-native networks, this memorandum of understanding creates a framework for testing and deploying technologies that enhance network resilience, automation and service innovation to provide communities with advanced connectivity that can enable meaningful digital services in their daily lives.”

 

– Alain Maupin, Vice President and Head, Ericsson East and North Africa
The MoU builds on a trusted and long-standing relationship spanning more than 20 years, during which Ericsson has delivered core and radio network solutions supporting Econet Zimbabwe’s infrastructure.

Econet InfraCo Powers Rural Clinics

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Econet InfraCo, the infrastructure arm of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, has been quietly providing free solar power to some rural clinics and hospitals around the country.

 

This is a groundbreaking initiative that is improving healthcare delivery in underserved rural communities which began last year. It targets rural clinics and hospitals located within five kilometres of an Econet base station, and connects them to the base station’s solar power system, at no cost to the health facility.

 

The initiative forms part of the company’s community outreach mandate as Econet InfraCo transitions into a full standalone infrastructure company.

 

To date, a number of clinics have already been connected, with Econet working in partnership with Higher Life Foundation (HLF), prioritizing facilities where power and connectivity needs are most pressing.

 

Access to reliable electricity remains one of the biggest challenges facing rural health institutions. This affects vaccine storage, emergency medical procedures, maternal health services and overall patient care. Econet InfraCo’s intervention is expected to significantly enhance healthcare outcomes in remote rural areas.

 

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr Douglas Mboweni, said the initiative reflects a long-standing philosophy championed by Econet founder and Group Chairman, Mr Strive Masiyiwa, that companies ought to play an active role in national development.

 

“Each of our companies is required by our founder to have its own social impact and philanthropic initiative,” said Dr Mboweni.

 

“Econet Wireless supports education through Higher Life Foundation’s Capernaum Scholarship programme which, over the last 30 years, has sent more than 400 000 children from disadvantaged backgrounds to school. Liquid Intelligent Technologies Zimbabwe provides free Internet access to universities, and Econet InfraCo has been stepping up to power critical rural services,” Dr Mboweni said.

 

He stated that integrating social impact into business operations ensures that development initiatives are sustainable and impactful.

 

He said Econet InfraCo is exploring other community infrastructure projects, including the construction of small footbridges over dangerous rivers in remote areas, adding that the company last year submitted a proposal to Government seeking permission to proceed with the initiative.

 

“We have the capability to put up small bridges to help women and children cross rivers safely. Our engineers can put them up while attending to base stations. We hope that we will receive the go-ahead to proceed with the programme,” Dr Mboweni said, adding that such bridges would improve access to schools, clinics and markets, particularly during the rainy season when rivers often cut off access to basic facilities for rural communities.

 

Dr Mboweni said Econet’s approach demonstrates how private sector players can contribute to national development beyond commercial objectives.

 

“When companies are given a social mission by their leadership, it provides a sense of purpose beyond making money. This has always been at the heart of businesses founded by Mr Masiyiwa across Africa,” he said.

 

He cited Econet’s collaboration with the royal family in Lesotho to support education and health services, as well as Liquid Intelligent Technologies’ provision of free Internet to educational institutions across Africa.

 

Unlike traditional corporate social responsibility initiatives that rely on ad hoc donations, Econet’s programmes are embedded into annual budgets and operational structures designed to have real social impact.

 

“We cannot do everything all at once or reach all the places we want at the same time, but we set aside money every year as part of our social impact budget and we have full-time staff working on these initiatives. Our commitment goes well beyond one-off donations,” Dr Mboweni said.

Econet tech expo positions Zimbabwe on global tech stage

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Econet Wireless Zimbabwe’s three-day E-Novate Expo delivered a compelling preview of Africa’s digital future, drawing thousands of students, developers and technology leaders keen to explore the latest developments in technology, artificial intelligence, networks and consumer technologies.

From hands-on demonstrations of 5G, Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud-based solutions to expert masterclasses, hackathons and e-gaming, the expo highlighted the pace at which Zimbabwe’s digital ecosystem is evolving, in line with global innovation trends.

Held this week at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC), the expo attracted some of the world’s leading technology brands, including Ericsson, Huawei, Samsung and ZTE, and mirrored the innovation-rich atmosphere seen at major global events such as Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, CES in Las Vegas and GITEX Global in Dubai. Ericsson’s Key Accounts Manager, Luis Martins, said the Swedish technology giant’s partnership with Econet stretches back more than two decades. “It’s an honour for Ericsson to be present at this expo. We’ve worked with Econet since 1998 — right from the launch of 2G, through 3G and 4G, and now 5G. We are very pleased to be part of this journey,” he said.

Martins applauded the turnout, particularly among young people, and said he hoped the expo becomes a regular feature on Zimbabwe’s technology calendar, emphasising the need for continuous digital skills development.

“At Ericsson we not only provide network technologies — from core systems to radio access solutions — but also new and innovative solutions and offerings tailored to meet the needs of the Zimbabwean market,” he said.

A Huawei representative echoed the same sentiment, pointing to sustained infrastructure investment and Zimbabwe’s increasing adoption of next-generation technology.

“Zimbabwe has the talent and the ambition to build a digital economy. Our role is not only to provide technology, but to support the goal of connecting everyone and enabling new digital services. What we are seeing here is a country ready for the next leap,” the representative said.

Samsung’s regional representative said the expo clearly showed that innovation must be inclusive and accessible.

“For us, innovation is not only about devices, but also about usability and access. Partnering with Econet allows us to bring premium smartphone experiences to more people, and that’s essential for Africa’s digital growth,” the representative noted. ZTE, another major global technology firm, highlighted opportunities to introduce emerging device ecosystems to Zimbabwe and strengthen partnerships that drive affordability.

“We see tremendous opportunity here. By working closely with Econet we can expand access to smart devices and help accelerate digital adoption across Zimbabwe,” the ZTE official said.

Several technology experts at the event also spoke of Zimbabwe’s readiness to embrace global innovation trends, sparking deeper conversations about digital transformation, smart industries, cloud services, cyber-security and the growth of emerging tech talent.

The conference programme further provided start-ups with guidance on investment, entrepreneurship and competing on the global stage, ensuring young innovators left not only inspired, but better prepared to participate in Africa’s rapidly advancing digital future.

Econet unveils 2025 Christmas Promotion with US$500 000 prizes up for grabs

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Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has launched its 2025 Christmas Promotion, once again offering customers the chance to win prizes worth up to US$500 000 – including six smart homes, four vehicles, eight solar systems, smartphones, home appliances, cash, airtime and more.

Running until February 28, 2026, the promotion is themed “iJoy After Joy”, reflecting Econet’s commitment to delivering sustained cheer throughout the festive season and into the new year.

Econet said all customers can automatically enter the weekly and monthly draws when they recharge with US$5 or more per week, when they make EcoCash transactions of at least US$25 per month,

when they subscribe to SmartSuite data packages, buy a device from the Econet Online Shop, or when they purchase a new Econet SIM card. No completion of forms is required.

The company said it is committed to delivering meaningful value to customers during the festive season – a time that holds deep cultural and emotional significance for many families.

“Christmas carries deep emotional and cultural importance to Zimbabweans, and we want our customers to feel appreciated during this season,” a company spokesman said.

“By offering smart homes, solar systems and other practical prizes, we are giving families the opportunity to improve their everyday lives. This promotion is our way of saying thank you to the millions who continue to choose Econet.”

Econet – a publicly listed telecommunications and technology company – now serves more than 16 million connected customers.

Since introducing the annual Christmas Promotion in 2019, Econet has given away close to US$2 million in prizes, including 12 smart homes, 16 residential stands, 48 solar systems, five brand-new cars, five holiday packages, and thousands of smaller prizes such as cash, appliances and airtime

Econet bags top award at Zimbabwe Agricultural Show

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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 exhibiting at ZAS 2025, targets communities and farmers with its new technologies

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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 eyes growth through AI, digital transformation

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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.