NetOne introduces reverse calling service

In a country grappling with prolonged economic hardship, mobile network operator NetOne has unveiled a new service aimed at easing communication challenges for customers with little or no airtime.

The state-owned telecommunications firm has introduced a feature known as Reverse Calling, or "Pay for Me," which allows subscribers with zero credit to place voice calls and have the cost borne by the recipient, provided they agree to accept the charges.

The service goes beyond the traditional "please call me" or "call back" text messages, enabling real-time voice communication even when the caller has no airtime. Under the system, a customer dials the intended number, prompting the recipient to receive a notification asking whether they wish to accept and pay for the call. If accepted, the call proceeds normally; if declined, no charges are incurred.

NetOne said the product is designed to address everyday realities faced by many Zimbabweans in a constrained economic environment, where access to airtime is often limited but the need to communicate remains critical.

The company cited practical scenarios such as parents trying to reach their children, students calling home over school fees, job seekers following up on employment opportunities, and small traders coordinating deliveries.

"We see you. We understand how you live. And we are here to make communication easier for you," NetOne said in a statement announcing the service.

The operator hopes the new offering will reduce reliance on missed calls and callback messages, while restoring dignity and convenience to customers who may otherwise struggle to communicate during urgent situations.

Reverse Calling is available to all NetOne subscribers and does not require any additional registration or sign-up fees.

The move is part of NetOne's broader efforts to expand its share of the voice call market by offering services tailored to the economic realities of its customer base.