Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, the country’s leading telecommunications and technology company, has won both the Best Overall Stand and Best ICT Exhibitor awards at the 2024 Zimbabwe Agricultural Show (ZAS). The accolades are a recognition of the cutting-edge technology Econet is providing to multiple sectors of the economy, including the key agricultural sector. This year Econet’s stand at ZAS features engaging and interactive digital displays of its current services, showcasing product use cases as well as offering sneak previews into the future. The displays feature immersive Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) capability demos, which visitors to the Show have been sampling and trying for themselves.

In addition, Econet has added a 3D Digital Billboard chronicling the company’s journey with its customers over the past 26 years. An Econet spokesman said this year’s Zimbabwe Agricultural Show’s theme: “Cultivating Prosperity: Growing Business. Innovating for Change. Nurturing Our Future,” sat well with the company’s commitment to leverage ICT to drive economic development and agricultural growth. Fungai Mandiveyi, Econet Wireless Zimbabwe’s Media and Corporate Affairs Executive, said the Best Overall Stand and Best ICT Exhibitor awards that the company won, were a testament to the company’s innovation culture. “We are grateful for the recognition, and believe it partly stems from our innovation culture as a business.  “Our stand this year showcases how our products and services are transforming agriculture and positively impacting the economy by enabling farmers to access real-time information, connect with markets and improve productivity through the appropriate use of technology,” he said. The Econet stand – which features a range of innovative products and services tailored for the agricultural sector, the financial services sector and insurance sector, among others – has been attracting thousands of visitors, including policy makers, industry leaders and farmers keen to learn how digital solutions can enhance their farming operations. The Zimbabwe Agricultural Show, one of the nation’s premier trade show, attracts thousands of exhibitors and visitors annually from various sectors, showcasing the best of Zimbabwe’s agriculture, manufacturing and technology industries.

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe’s ambitious nationwide network upgrade has begun to reap rewards, with customers across the country starting to notice a marked improvement in network service quality. Over the past two years, Econet has undertaken modernisation work on its mobile network infrastructure. The upgrade work has included the rollout of 5G technology, the accelerated upgrade of 3G sites to faster and enhanced LTE (4G) technology, and the deployment of new network sites in areas where there was previously sparse or no coverage. In Mashonaland East, customers have reported significant improvements in connectivity and call quality, thanks to the infrastructure upgrade work in the province. Customers have particularly credited the network modernisation work with transforming their digital experience in the province, delivering on the company’s commitment to deliver technology that improves the lives of people. Ms Tarisai Chokuposha, a businesswoman from Makaha in Mutoko, said Econet’s network upgrade had yielded tangible benefits in her business operations. “The new 4G technology is much faster and has simplified the process of ordering products from countries like Tanzania and South Africa for me, making my business operations better. “We are even using WhatsApp to sell to our customers, and so we are grateful to Econet for upgrading their network here.” Many Econet network users in the province have reported a significant improvement in their customer experience and a drastic reduction in connectivity issues.

Ms Sharon Marume, a resident from Wedza said: “The network is now very good. We can connect to our social media platforms without any challenges. It feels like a new era for us.” Ms Pauline Makuzunga, another customer from Mudzi in Mutoko, expressed her delight at the improved quality of service. “We are incredibly happy with what Econet has done here. One morning we just woke up and saw that LTE (4G) was now connecting on our phones. It was like a gift,” she said. Her comments highlight the welcome nature of the improvements, which have significantly enhanced the user experience. Dallen Mudzengerere, a tech-savvy user from Murehwa, commended the speed of the new network technology. “The network is now very fast, and we are enjoying every moment of it. It used to be quite a bit slow to connect, but now we connect ‘just like that’. This is what we needed.” His comments reflect a growing appreciation for the reliability and efficiency of the upgraded services. Besides Mashonaland East, Econet has invested significantly in upgrading its network infrastructure across the country to 4G, including upgrades major cities like Harare and Bulawayo, where it has also deployed the superfast 5G technology. The company deployed over 1 000 LTE (4G) base stations across the country, over the past year alone, underlining its commitment to continuously improving network quality and the overall customer experience.

ECONET Wireless Zimbabwe has reported significant growth in both data and voice usage, with increases of 74 percent and 46 percent respectively for the first quarter ending May 31, 2024, compared to the same period last year.
In its latest trading update, the technology and telecommunications firm said data and voice revenue now contributed 42 percent and 38 percent of the company’s total revenue respectively, a shift from 33 percent and 45 percent respectively in the first quarter of 2023.
“The marked growth in data usage underscores the need for sustained network expansion and upgrades to adequately meet the ever-increasing demand for mobile broadband and digital services,” the company stated.
“With the advent of 5G, IoT, and other cutting-edge technologies, the need for robust, agile, and future-proof network infrastructure has become more pressing than ever.”
During the quarter, Econet commissioned over 30 new sites across the country, enhancing network performance and quality of service. The company said it plans to continue its network modernization programme, extending coverage in urban, peri-urban, and rural areas.
“Increasing our 5G penetration is also a key initiative, with plans to commission additional 5G sites by the end of the financial year,” said the company.
To address the growing utilization of data services, Econet has added functionalities to its core network, transitioning to a cloud-based system that promises better service personalization to meet diverse customer needs.
However, it said it has faced significant challenges due to ongoing power cuts, leading to increased costs for backup power and investment in solar energy.
“Load shedding on the national power grid continues to negatively affect the business through reliance on costly backup power to maintain the requisite network uptime and meet quality of service standards.
“The business continues to invest in renewable energy sources like solar power,” it said.
Following the acquisition of FinTech businesses from EcoCash Holdings, Econet’s mobile money unit delivered a strong performance, driven by a growing active customer base and increased usage of its digital financial services.
The mobile money business saw active customers grow of 189 percent, compared to the first quarter of the prior year, with international remittance values increasing by 265 percent.
EcoCash has also continued its partnerships with Mobile Transfer Agencies from various source markets to terminate into the EcoCash wallet, leveraging its distribution network for customers to access funds. This is expected to drive further growth in remittance values in the coming period.
The synergies between Econet’s digital insurance platforms and mobile money ecosystem have led to increased adoption and cross-selling opportunities.
The life insurance business recorded a 14.2 percent growth in premiums against the last quarter, while Airtime Cover subscriptions under EcoSure exceeded 400,000 by the end of the quarter. Maisha Health Fund saw a 5.5 percent growth in gross premiums compared to the prior period.
Moovah, Econet’s short-term insurance business, recently introduced mobile phone insurance, reinforcing its position as a pioneering leader in the market and reaffirming its commitment to innovation and responsiveness to customer needs.
“We remain dedicated to expanding our offerings and focusing on customer insights to provide comprehensive and tailored insurance solutions, enabled by the Group’s capacity to develop agile products,” said the company.
In the quarter ended May 31, 2024, Econet declared and paid an interim dividend of 0.26 US cents per share.
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COLLEN Ann Rowe (50) based in Saudi Arabia, is on cloud nine as she is participating for the first time at the Econet Victoria Falls Marathon which had eluded her since 2007.
A teacher by profession, Rowe, who is accompanied by her daughter Kelli Ann Rowe (20) and her 73-year-old mother Ina Johanna Cochran, said a combination of factors including commitment at work as the marathon would fall during the school term where she was teaching, and relocation to other places made her fail to register for the marathon.
She has done a number of marathons before in Colombia, where she was once based, China and South Africa.
Rowe and her daughter Kelli are running the 21.5km half marathon at the 2024 Econet Victoria Falls Marathon while her mother Cochran who is based in Durban, South Africa, is accompanying them for support. Rowe is using the event as a birthday celebration for herself after turning 50 recently.
“The Victoria Falls Marathon has been on my bucket list since 2007 and I am happy that this time I am here for it,” said Rowe after collecting her badge.
He commended Victoria Falls’ hospitality.
“I currently live in Saudi Arabia. I am here to do the half marathon and I had wanted to do this race since 2007 when I first heard about it but it never worked. So, finally this year is my year and I have been able to bring my mom and my daughter and they are very excited to be finally visiting Victoria Falls.
“I am school teacher so it would happen when schools are open or when I am travelling. I just turned 50 and so I decided I should come celebrate here. It is lovely here and everybody has been so friendly and welcome. I have done a couple of races like the national half marathon in South Africa where I used to live, and I have done races in Colombia and China,” she said.
Her daughter Kelli who is based in Spain said she was excited to be in Victoria Falls.
“It’s very important for me to be here because my mother is a runner and she has been dreaming of this race since when I was very little. So I am joining her in this race. I have done a 10km before and that’s furthest I have ever run, so I am doing 21.5km this time and we will see how it goes. I am very excited to be here, Victoria Falls is beautiful and the people are very kind. Everyone is loving, we have been here a day and so far its been very beautiful,” she said.
Cochran is here to support her daughter and granddaughter.
“I am from Hilcrest, Durban in South Africa. I had never been to Victoria Falls so my daughter said we should come. I love this country, it is clean and unbelievably wonderful. I am not running but will be supporting my daughter and granddaughter,” she said.

Econet Wireless and Sasai Money Transfer recently launched an initiative to scrap transfer fees on remittances Zimbabweans around the country have hailed Econet Wireless and Sasai Money Transfer’s recent initiative to scrap transfer fees on all remittances sent from to the United Kingdom and South Africa to Zimbabwe. Econet Wireless, Zimbabwe’s largest telecommunications and technology company, achieved a first in Africa at the beginning of this month, by opening two free remittance corridors into Zimbabwe, completely eliminating costs for both sender and receiver.
Now, recipients of free money transfers from both the UK and South Africa have commended the initiative as “a lifeline” for citizens grappling with an impending drought.
“I am pleased that Econet has removed cash-out charges because it allows me to use all the money I receive to buy more food. “This is especially important now, as we are facing a drought and most of my crops have wilted under the intense sun,” said Primogenitor Mbambo from Gokwe
She added that she frequently received money from relatives in South Africa to supplement her food and grocery requirements.
Zimbabwe faces an El Nino-induced drought that has left more than 2.7 million people in need of food aid. Econet said the free remittance initiative was aimed at helping Zimbabweans weather the impact of the drought.
Vimbayiwashe Zhakata, from Murehwa said she used the money she received from relatives in South Africa to pay for her medical expenses.
“When I received money last week I cashed it out at a pharmacy and bought the medication I required. The introduction of this free service is commendable, especially in these challenging times,” she said.
Cephas Makurumidze from Rusape, applauded Econet for ensuring that funds to cash out remittances are readily available at its shops. “I am happy that each time I visit the Econet Shop, funds are always available. The removal of fees is a great initiative as it leaves me with more money to spend,” he said.
International remittances currently attract charges of up to 13% for the sender, while the receiver is charged between 1.7% & 2% when cashing-out.
Chinhoyi resident Letwin Gunduza said the removal of sender and receiver charges will help her family to start saving for the rainy day.
“I receive money every month from my husband who works in South Africa, to pay school fees and buy groceries. Now with the removal of transaction charges, we can use the extra money for investments or savings,” she said.
The same sentiment was shared by Chiedza Chikukwa, from Masvingo who noted that the initiative is leaving her with more money in her pocket.“The zero-fees remittance promotion is an enticing offer that significantly enhances the value of the service. It’s an initiative I find immensely beneficial and eagerly look forward to utilizing further,” she said.
Last year alone, Zimbabwe received over US$1.873 billion in diaspora remittances, up 16% from US$1.617 billion received in 2022. The UN says about 75% of remittances are used to buy food and to cover medical expenses, school fees and housing expenses.
Ruth Vela, an 83-year-old pensioner from Harare, described the Econet-Sasai Money Transfer zero-fees remittances initiative as “a blessing”.
“I collected money sent by my niece in the UK without incurring any charges. For us pensioners, every dollar counts, and not having to pay fees is a huge relief. It means I can afford more essentials, like medication and food, which are crucial for my well-being,” she said.
Econet Wireless Zimbabwe’s Group CEO, Douglas Mboweni, recently said the free remittance initiative will remain in place “for the foreseeable future”. He also announced plans to extend it to other remittance corridors , such as the United States, Europe and Middle East.
“The initiative will continue for the foreseeable future. We are now working on expanding it to other source markets, such as the US, Europe and Middle East,” Mboweni said.
With more than 3 million Zimbabweans living abroad, analysts say the zero-rating initiative by Econet and Sasai Money Transfer will result in more foreign currency inflows into the country.

LISTED mobile network operator Econet Wireless Zimbabwe is intensifying network expansion and upgrade initiatives in a bid to enhance connectivity and profitability, as well as ward off competition.
During the year to February 29, 2024, the group was on a robust network modernisation and strategic investment drive, which has been the cornerstone of its strategy to enhance service quality and expand coverage.
Econet chairperson Dr James Myers said the group will continue to invest in network infrastructure to meet customer demands and keep abreast with global trends, in line with the vision of a digitally connected future that leaves no Zimbabwean behind.
“Our strategic partnerships with key equipment vendors have enabled us to accelerate our network modernisation after several years of underinvestment due to limited foreign currency availability,” he said in a performance update for the year under review.
Econet has modernised over 1 012 sites with 4G high-capacity base stations, with a significant concentration of these upgrades in Harare, Bulawayo and the Manicaland region. The telecoms giant is also looking at an additional 550 base stations to be installed across the country, aimed at further improving service coverage and quality.
This comes as the Government, through the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz), has now provided spectrum within the 700MHz frequency band, which will extend the coverage of existing base stations to serve customers who are on the periphery of the current coverage limit. As a result, the group added more than 50 new base station sites, contributing to increased network capacity and reliability.
“This investment has enhanced our quality of service and increased network coverage, ensuring that our customers enjoy superior connectivity,” explained Dr Myers.
The group has also integrated artificial intelligence (AI) into its operations, which, according to Dr Myers, has played a pivotal role in boosting operational efficiency and enhancing customer experiences.
The company has deployed AI algorithms to improve customer segmentation and offer personalised services, resulting in increased customer activity. The group has integrated AI-driven recommendation engines and predictive models into daily operations to drive usage and revenue.
This reflects the company’s commitment to leveraging on technology for business growth and customer satisfaction.
“This has enabled us to deliver a remarkable 47 percent growth in usage in the voice segment,” he said.
To address challenges emanating from erratic power supplies, Econet has invested in renewable energy solutions to maintain service continuity. The deployment of green power solutions has been crucial in ensuring high uptime for the majority of base stations.
The network upgrade and expanded coverage comes at a time the anticipated entry of Starlink into Zimbabwe is expected to put more pressure on the existing telecoms operators, creating scope for them to innovate and stay ahead of competition.
In terms of financial performance, the group’s revenue more than doubled, or rose by 133 percent to $14,8 trillion on the back of a 34 percent increase in voice volume and a 36 percent rise in data volume. These were also supported by the company’s network modernisation efforts and cost optimisation strategies that yielded a margin of profitability above 45 percent.
However, the depreciation of the local currency impacted the group’s financial results, with exchange losses amounting to $3,2 trillion, equivalent to 22 percent of revenue.
The group’s loss for the period widened to $1,1 trillion from $317 billion in the prior year.
However, retirement of foreign currency-denominated debentures in October 2023 significantly reduced the group’s exposure to exchange rate fluctuations, positively impacting profitability.
Econet is upbeat this will help boost its profitability for the current financial year and going forward.
The group is also hoping the introduction of the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) currency will bring the much-needed economic stability and facilitate better financial planning and reporting. Additionally, the company will also leverage on its 5G network service.
“We are looking to scale up our 5G penetration to unlock new opportunities, leverage on artificial intelligence and process automation to improve operational efficiencies and customer service delivery,” said Dr Myers.

Analysts and business leaders alike have hailed the marathon as a key driver of economic activity, attracting an influx of both local and international participants, spectators, and tourists.
The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon which has grown to become one of the top events on the Zimbabwe sporting calendar has continued to receive rave reviews ahead of the 16th edition of the competition – which will take place in the scenic resort town on July 7.
With its growing economic significance, the international marathon – held every winter amidst the majestic backdrop of the iconic Victoria Falls – has grown to become a catalyst for economic growth, as it draws local and global participation and attention.
Analysts and business leaders alike have hailed the marathon as a key driver of economic activity, attracting an influx of both local and international participants, spectators, and tourists.
The event has bolstered the profile of the Victoria Falls as a global tourist destination and also contributed significantly to the local economy.
“The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon is growing to be a significant contributor to Zimbabwe’s national vision of creating a multi-billion-dollar tourism economy,” said international business expert Macdonald Ndovi.
He added that the event, popularly referenced as Africa’s Number 1 Marathon, is a strategic investment in Zimbabwe’s future, propelling economic growth and solidifying Victoria Falls as a world-class tourist destination.
The marathon, which is this year expected to attract more than 5 500 runners from around the world, is expected to increase spending on accommodation, food, transportation, and other goods and services in Victoria Falls.
This influx of tourists provides a much-needed boost to the local hospitality industry, with hotels, lodges, and guesthouses experiencing high occupancy rates during the event.
“The Victoria Falls Marathon has become an important event in Zimbabwe’s sporting calendar, attracting both elite athletes and recreational runners looking to experience a memorable race in a breathtaking setting,” said tourism expert and researcher Charles Mavhunga.
“The event serves as a platform for promoting the tourism industry in Zimbabwe and a major driver of tourism and economic activity in the region.”
As the marathon enters its 16th year and continues to grow, it is expected to offer even more opportunities for local businesses to showcase their products and services to a broader audience.
An increase in demand for services in the resort town during the marathon generates direct revenue and helps promote business activities in the town and surrounding areas.
“The positive publicity generated by the Victoria Falls Marathon helps raise the profile of Victoria Falls, leading to increased interest in the region from potential visitors who may not have been aware of the tourist attractions offered by Victoria Falls, thus contributing to the long-term growth of tourism revenue for Zimbabwe’s economy,” Mavhunga added.
Local entrepreneurs and small businesses are among the biggest beneficiaries of the marathon.
From vendors selling crafts and food to service providers offering guided tours and transport, the event provides a platform for local enterprises to thrive.
“The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon is a golden opportunity for local businesses,” said Nyasha Mandizvidza, a market analyst.
“It enables small-scale entrepreneurs to tap into a larger market, driving sales and expanding their customer base. This event is a lifeline for many, promoting economic inclusivity and community growth.”

NOW in its 16th year, the Econet Victoria Falls Marathon — which will take place in the scenic resort city on 7 July has emerged as more than just a premier sporting event.
With its growing economic significance, the international marathon — held every winter amid the majestic backdrop of the iconic Victoria Falls — has grown to become a catalyst for economic growth, as it draws local and global participation and attention.
Analysts and business leaders alike have described the marathon as a key driver of economic activity, attracting an influx of both local and international participants, spectators and tourists.
The event has bolstered the profile of Victoria Falls as a global tourist destination and also contributed significantly to the local economy.
“The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon is growing to be a significant contributor to Zimbabwe’s national vision of creating a multi-billion-dollar tourism economy,” said international business expert Macdonald Ndovi.
He said the event, popularly referenced as Africa’s Number 1 Marathon, is a strategic investment in Zimbabwe’s future, propelling economic growth and solidifying Victoria Falls as a world-class tourist destination.
The marathon, which is this year expected to attract more than 5 500 runners from around the world, is expected to increase spending on accommodation, food, transportation, and other goods and services in Victoria Falls.
The influx of tourists provides a much-needed boost to the local hospitality industry, with hotels, lodges, and guest houses experiencing high occupancy rates during the event.
“The Victoria Falls Marathon has become an important event in Zimbabwe’s sporting calendar, attracting both elite athletes and recreational runners looking to experience a memorable race in a breathtaking setting,” said tourism expert and researcher Charles Mavhunga.
“The event serves as a platform for promoting the tourism industry in Zimbabwe and a major driver of tourism and economic activity in the region.”
As the marathon enters its 16th year and continues to grow, it is expected to offer even more opportunities for local businesses to showcase their products and services to a broader audience.
An increase in demand for services in the resort city during the marathon generates direct revenue and helps promote business activities in the city and surrounding areas.
“The positive publicity generated by the Victoria Falls Marathon helps raise the profile of Victoria Falls, leading to increased interest in the region from potential visitors who may not have been aware of the tourist attractions offered by Victoria Falls, thus contributing to the long-term growth of tourism revenue for Zimbabwe’s economy,” Mavhunga added.
Local entrepreneurs and small businesses are among the biggest beneficiaries of the marathon. From vendors selling crafts and food to service providers offering guided tours and transport, the event provides a platform for local enterprises to thrive.
“The Econet Victoria Falls Marathon is a golden opportunity for local businesses,” said Nyasha Mandizvidza, a market analyst.
“It enables small-scale entrepreneurs to tap into a larger market, driving sales and expanding their customer base. This event is a lifeline for many, promoting economic inclusivity and community growth,” she said.

LONG-Distance runner Blessing Waison is hoping to defend his Econet Victoria Falls Marathon title when he takes part in the 2024 edition of the annual event on Saturday.
Waison improved his time by three minutes from his 2022 performance to win the 2023 race in 2 hours 15 minutes 11 seconds.
Waison beat second-placed Elijah Mabhunu by more than two minutes (2:17:21) while Lyno Muchena was third in 2 hours 17 minutes 30 seconds.
Prosper Mutwira finished fourth in 2 hours 17 minutes 41 seconds while another veteran Mike Fokoroni dropped from fifth last year to eighth, in 2 hours 22 minutes 32 seconds.
Ethel Pangiso was the women’s winner in 2 hours 41 minutes 51 seconds. Waison says his target is to win the race again on Saturday.
“My training has not been at 100 percent because I have been nursing an injury so I can’t promise fireworks but the aim going into Saturday is to defend the title. It’s always a pleasure to participate in this elite competition and I will give it my all to once again be on the podium,” he said.
The 2024 Marathon, running under the theme: “Road to Victory”, offers a variety of distances to cater for any runners.
Econet has advised participants to choose from the famed, full 42km marathon, the half-marathon (21km), a collaborative team relay with two runners doing 10.5km each, or the more popular 7,5km Family Fun run.
Now in its 16th year, the Econet Victoria Falls Marathon has cemented its reputation as a top African running event.
The race’s renowned scenic route takes runners on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife surrounding the iconic Victoria Falls, allowing participants to enjoy its grandeur up-close.

LOCAL and national artistes captivated a full-house live audience at the Buddie Beatz Victory Show as the curtain came down on the 2024 Econet Vic Falls Marathon at Baobab Primary School in the resort town on Sunday evening.
While the performance of the national stars lived to its billing, it was the appearance of the local artistes that was met with familiar enthusiasm and acclaim, marking a significant moment for the local music scene.
Sharing the stage and standing shoulder to shoulder the with national superstars such as Winky D, Jah Prayzah, Feli Nandi, Nutty O, Tocky Vibes, King Her and DJ Chiweda, Victoria Falls-based artistes Ray “Muffia King” Karipache, DJ CJ (Tawanda Cephas Junior Matema) and Daniel “Danman Croc” Ngwenya acquitted themselves well as they gave powerful performances in front of an estimate 5 000-strong audience.
“It was an awesome concert. It felt good being back in my hometown and performing alongside my colleagues who are also in the music industry,” said DJ CJ, soon after the music extravaganza, which has now become a tradition the evening of the Econet Vic Falls Marathon.
He lauded Econet Wireless, through the Buddie Beatz Victory Show, for “gifting” local artistes the exposure by affording them the opportunity to perform on a big stage to a huge crowd.
“I saw my fellow artistes, born and breed in this city, performing in front of a huge crowd. The night surely brought exposure and unity amongst artistes around the nation as we were gifted the space we have always craved for our growth on the music scene,” DJ CJ said.
Daniel “Danman Croc” Ngwenya was equally elated by the event’s success and the audience’s response.
“It was a great event for me, and the way people gave me feedback was just amazing. I feel everyone enjoyed my performance because of the reactions I noted from the crowd. It was certainly a great night for all the local artists because their performances were amazing and the reception by the crowd was just wonderful,” he said.
Danman Croc noted that Buddie Beatz Victory Show was the biggest event of his career, saying: “This is the biggest event I have performed in my career, and it means a lot for my growth as an artiste.”
Ray “Muffia King” Karipache highlighted the event’s great organization, along with the amazing support from the audience.
“The stage was well set, the treatment we got was super as we managed to perform without any glitches. I really enjoyed the way I performed in front of all those people, and the support was just something else,” he said.
“As artistes in Victoria Falls, we have so much talent that is looking for recognition and an opportunity. Getting opportunities like the Buddie Beatz Victory Show means we are exposed to Zimbabwe and the rest of the world,” he said.