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In line with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and the Vision 2030 agenda, NetOne on 9 October 2024 launched the 5G technology, reflecting an unwavering commitment to transforming Zimbabwe into a middle-income economy, through technology, innovation, and sustainable development.
In his keynote address during the launch, Honourable Vice President, Colonel (Retired) Kembo C.D. Mohadi, at Boka Tobacco Auction Floors in Harare South, reiterated that the event signified a turning point in the journey towards achieving Vision 2030 and fulfilling our NDS1 goal – modernizing the economy through ICTs and digital technology.
“Fellow Zimbabweans, esteemed guests, ladies and gentlemen, today, I stand before you filled with pride and hope as we embark on a remarkable milestone in our journey towards Vision 2030. The launch of the Net One 5G Base Stations signifies a transformative leap forward in Zimbabwe’s commitment to innovation, modernization, and technological advancement.
“Ladies and Gentlemen, as we celebrate the rollout of our 5G services, let us recognize how this initiative aligns with our National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), which seeks to establish Zimbabwe as a knowledge-driven economy. The introduction of 5G technology promises to enhance connectivity nationwide, stimulate innovation, increase productivity, and ensure access to vital services for all our citizens.
“On this day, we proudly stand at the threshold of a transformative era, where technology serves as the driving force behind economic growth, national development, and social advancement. The launch of 5G is more than just an upgrade in communications infrastructure, it symbolizes our commitment to a digital future that positions Zimbabwe as a key player in the global technological landscape,” Vice President Mohadi said.
With innovative solutions like this, Zimbabwe is dedicated to cultivating an ecosystem that encourages creativity, efficiency, and progress across all sectors of our nation. Embracing cutting-edge technologies paves the way for a smart Zimbabwe marked by smart cities, smart agriculture, advanced industries, and enhanced education.
This digital transformation will permeate every facet of the economy and society, with these base stations serving as a crucial building block that empowers Zimbabweans to flourish in an increasingly interconnected world.
Addressing the same gathering, the Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Hon. Dr. Tatenda Mavetera, encouraged stakeholders to embrace technology with enthusiasm and responsibility and use it to solve challenges, create new opportunities, and build a brighter future for all Zimbabweans.
“It is my great pleasure to address you today at this momentous occasion – the launch of NetOne Cellular (Private) Limited’s 5G Connectivity here at Boka, Harare. We are also here to witness the virtual launch of two hundred and seventy-five (275) 4 G-enabled base stations from NetOne and another fourteen (14) 4G base stations erected by POTRAZ as part of the Tower Relocation Program initiated by the Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services under the Infrastructure Sharing Policy.
“As a sector that is conscious of the need to protect the environment, we are proud to announce that as many as 140 sites out of the sites being launched today are using solar power. This event thus marks a significant milestone in our nation’s journey towards digital transformation and economic prosperity,” Hon Mavetera said.
In his address, Engineer Raphael Mushanawani, the NetOne Group Chief Executive Officer said Zimbabwe is now poised to experience connectivity like never before.
“We are ensuring that our urban and rural areas are linked through this powerful high-speed data network, creating new opportunities. The activation of the 5G services opened doors to innovation that will shape every sector of our economy. Farmers will be adopting smart technologies that optimize food production while conserving water and energy.
“Industry and service providers will be revolutionized by automation and efficiency. Innovation will be transformed through digital classrooms and cities becoming smart hubs that serve citizens more efficiently. This is not a distant dream, it is happening now. Zimbabwe is leading, not following, in the fourth industrial revolution. The extensive high-speed data network we have built doesn’t stop with 5G technologies We have also deployed 275 4G base stations across the country, under the model of broadband phase 3, which was launched by His Excellency, Comrade E. D. Mnangagwa, on the 20th of September 2021,” Engineer Mushanawani said.
With 140 solar-powered sites, NetOne is bringing connectivity to remote areas, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting the way in sustainable development. Its efforts in rolling out 5G technologies are not merely about fast internet speeds.
This network represents the foundation of Zimbabwe’s emerging digital economy. It is about ensuring its businesses are globally competitive, and that the OneConnect enterprise solutions empower sectors like construction, transportation, mining, and beyond to excel in a rapid economy.
The following are the 5 G-based solutions in practice:
Smart Parks
Zimparks partnered with NetOne and Teleios to proffer 5G-based solutions for Smart Parks. Showcased yesterday were drone-based monitoring and imaging as well as climate sensing and protection. The solution has also been deployed at mines where Private 4G/5G networks are being utilized. This is a big step towards the rollout of Massive IOT solutions in the country.
Smart Surveillance
Smart Security and Surveillance solutions for businesses and homes in partnership with Hikvision and Satewave Technologies.
Smart Hybrid Power Solution
NetOne showcased a smart power solution that has a hybrid backup system. The solution has been tested and provides extended power autonomy for their base stations. Moving away from traditional batteries that have been prone to vandalism, the new solution is a game changer and runs off an AI engine to provide optimum power in real time.
Telemedicine
NetOne has been making significant strides together with their partners ZimSmart Villages to deploy Virtual Hospitals. There are already several deployments of this solution in the country in the Midlands, Mashonaland, Harare, and other areas. These were running off e-Band Microwave Technology but will now be powered by NetOne’s 5G network.
Together with Smart Services, NetOne also celebrated the launch of key network deployments.
1. 275 LTE base stations
2. 219 base stations under the National Mobile Broadband Phase 3 project.
3. 130 base stations now on solar
4. 20 5G base stations
NetOne demonstrated speeds of up to 1.1Gbps for their 5G. Though this is launch speed, subscribers are set to get some interesting speeds from NetOne as they continue to roll out.