Zanu-PF MP calls for improved network coverage in rural Matebeleland

Gwanda South legislator and Deputy Minister of Information, Dr Ompile Marupi, has urged Zimbabwe's telecommunications companies to adopt infrastructure sharing models to address persistent network connectivity challenges in remote parts of Matebeleland South.

Speaking during a community engagement event in his constituency, Dr Marupi said vast sections of rural Matabeleland, including areas in Gwanda South, remain effectively cut off from the rest of the country due to a lack of boosters, transmitters, and related infrastructure.

"No one and no community should be left behind," Dr Marupi said. "We are in active engagements with the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), as well as mobile operators Econet, NetOne, Telecel and broadcasting services provider Transmedia, to coordinate efforts around sharing infrastructure and expanding network coverage."

Rural residents in the region have long bemoaned poor mobile network reception, with some villagers reportedly climbing hills or walking long distances to gain access to cellular networks. In extreme cases, residents are forced to rely on cross-border networks from neighbouring countries like Botswana and South Africa to make calls or access mobile data services.

Dr Marupi said a collaborative model between service providers - including joint erection and distribution of network towers - would eliminate unnecessary duplication of infrastructure, reduce costs, and accelerate rural connectivity.

"This is not just a telecommunications issue - it's about development, education, security, and economic inclusion. We cannot afford to have parts of the country in a communication blackout," he said.

Several communities across Matabeleland South, especially in border areas, have for years operated in digital isolation. The lack of connectivity has negatively impacted school e-learning programmes, emergency services, mobile banking, and general access to information.

POTRAZ has previously acknowledged the challenge and indicated that rural connectivity is a priority in its Universal Services Fund rollout, though progress has been uneven across provinces.

Dr Marupi's call adds fresh pressure on telecom operators and regulators to adopt cost-effective strategies and prioritize underserved regions in national digital inclusion efforts.