Tatenda Mavetera - minister of information and communication technology, postal services, and courier in Zimbabwe - has unveiled a government initiative to offer free public internet access to the population. While the Minister didn't provide specific details about the project, she emphasized its potential to enhance citizens' information accessibility and boost e-commerce in the country.
This move aligns with the Zimbabwean government's broader digital transformation goals. Earlier this year, the executive validated the implementation of the national broadband program for the 2023-2030 period. The program's objective is to accelerate broadband availability in Zimbabwe and lower its associated costs. The government is committed to reducing broadband expenses from 10.1% of an average Zimbabwean's monthly income in 2022 to just 2% over the next seven years.
This announcement closely follows Starlink's recent request for authorization to initiate commercial services in Zimbabwe. Additionally, Zimbabwe is actively developing its second satellite, which is expected to significantly enhance the quality and coverage of telecommunications services nationwide.
According to the latest data from the regulator, Zimbabwe recorded 9.9 million mobile internet subscriptions in the second quarter of 2023 (April-June), resulting in a penetration rate of 65.2%. It's worth noting that actual figures may be lower, as some individuals possess multiple SIM cards registered under their names.
