From Slow Connections to Satellite Speeds: Zimbabwe’s Journey Toward a Connected Future

• Current State of Zimbabwe’s Internet Market
• Emerging Technologies Shaping Internet Access
• Key Players and Market Dynamics
• Projected Expansion and User Adoption
• Connectivity Gaps and Progress Across Provinces
• Anticipated Developments in Zimbabwe’s Internet Ecosystem
• Barriers to Progress and Areas for Innovation
• Sources & References

“Advanced Node Progress and Breakthroughs The summer of 2025 saw significant strides in cutting-edge semiconductor process nodes.” (source)

Current State of Zimbabwe’s Internet Market

Zimbabwe’s internet market has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, shifting from unreliable, slow connections to a landscape increasingly defined by high-speed broadband and satellite internet solutions. Historically, Zimbabwe lagged behind regional peers in internet penetration and quality, with connectivity hampered by outdated infrastructure, frequent power outages, and high costs. As of 2015, internet penetration stood at just 40%, with most users relying on slow 2G and 3G mobile networks (POTRAZ).

However, recent years have seen a surge in both investment and innovation. By December 2023, internet penetration had climbed to 65.7%, according to the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ Q4 2023 Report). This growth is driven by the expansion of 4G LTE networks, fiber-optic rollouts in urban centers, and the entry of global satellite internet providers. Major mobile operators like Econet Wireless and NetOne have expanded their 4G coverage, while Liquid Intelligent Technologies has laid over 100,000 km of fiber across Africa, including significant routes in Zimbabwe (Liquid Intelligent Technologies).

The most transformative development is the arrival of satellite internet services. In 2023, Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet arm, received regulatory approval to operate in Zimbabwe, promising to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet even in remote rural areas (TechZim). This move is expected to bridge the digital divide, as traditional ISPs have struggled to reach the country’s dispersed rural population. Early adopters report speeds exceeding 100 Mbps, a significant leap from the national average of 10 Mbps on legacy networks.

Despite these advances, challenges remain. Data costs are among the highest in Africa, with 1GB of mobile data averaging $5.30, compared to the continental average of $3.50 (Cable.co.uk). Power supply instability and foreign currency shortages also hinder further infrastructure upgrades. Nevertheless, Zimbabwe’s internet revolution is well underway, with satellite technology poised to play a pivotal role in achieving universal, affordable connectivity in the coming years.

Emerging Technologies Shaping Internet Access

Zimbabwe’s internet landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation, propelled by the adoption of emerging technologies that promise to bridge the country’s longstanding digital divide. Historically, Zimbabwe has struggled with slow, unreliable internet connectivity, largely due to underdeveloped infrastructure and limited investment in broadband networks. As of early 2023, internet penetration stood at approximately 65.7%, with most users relying on mobile data, which is often expensive and inconsistent (POTRAZ).

However, the arrival of satellite internet services is poised to revolutionize access. In 2023, Zimbabwe granted regulatory approval for Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet venture, to operate in the country. Starlink’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites offer high-speed, low-latency internet even in remote and rural areas where traditional fiber or mobile networks are impractical. Early adopters report speeds exceeding 100 Mbps, a significant leap from the national average of 2-10 Mbps on legacy networks (Speedtest Global Index).

Alongside satellite solutions, Zimbabwe is also investing in fiber-optic expansion. The government and private sector players like Liquid Intelligent Technologies are rolling out new fiber backbones, aiming to connect major cities and business hubs (Liquid Intelligent Technologies). These efforts are complemented by the deployment of 4G and pilot 5G networks, further enhancing mobile broadband capacity.

• Satellite Internet: Starlink and other LEO providers are enabling high-speed access in underserved regions.
• Fiber-Optic Expansion: New investments are increasing urban and peri-urban connectivity.
• Mobile Broadband: 4G coverage is expanding, with 5G trials underway in Harare and Bulawayo.

These technological advancements are expected to boost digital inclusion, support e-learning, e-commerce, and remote work, and attract foreign investment. As costs decrease and coverage expands, Zimbabwe’s internet revolution is set to transform the nation’s economic and social landscape, moving it from lagging signals to sky-high connectivity.

Key Players and Market Dynamics

Zimbabwe’s internet landscape has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past decade, shifting from unreliable, slow connections to a burgeoning market energized by satellite technology and new entrants. This evolution is driven by a combination of regulatory reforms, private sector investment, and the urgent need to bridge the digital divide in both urban and rural areas.

• Key Players:
  • Econet Wireless: As Zimbabwe’s largest mobile network operator, Econet has played a pivotal role in expanding 3G and 4G coverage, boasting over 13 million subscribers and a market share exceeding 65% (TechZim).
  • Liquid Intelligent Technologies: A subsidiary of Econet, Liquid has invested heavily in fiber-optic infrastructure, connecting major cities and providing enterprise-grade internet solutions (Liquid Tech).
  • TelOne: The state-owned fixed-line operator has modernized its network, rolling out ADSL and fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) services, and recently partnered with global satellite providers to reach underserved regions (TelOne).
  • Starlink (SpaceX): In 2024, Starlink received regulatory approval to operate in Zimbabwe, promising high-speed, low-latency internet via satellite, particularly targeting rural and remote communities (Bloomberg).
• Market Dynamics:
  • Rising Internet Penetration: Internet penetration in Zimbabwe reached 65.7% in 2023, up from just 23% in 2015, driven by mobile broadband and satellite adoption (DataReportal).
  • Regulatory Shifts: The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) has liberalized the sector, encouraging competition and investment in next-generation technologies (POTRAZ).
  • Affordability and Access: While data costs remain high relative to income, the entry of satellite providers is expected to drive prices down and improve service quality, especially in rural areas.
  • Infrastructure Challenges: Power outages, foreign currency shortages, and vandalism of network infrastructure continue to pose operational hurdles for providers.

Zimbabwe’s internet revolution is accelerating, with established telcos, innovative startups, and global satellite giants reshaping the market. The coming years will likely see intensified competition, improved connectivity, and greater digital inclusion across the country.

Projected Expansion and User Adoption

Zimbabwe’s internet landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation, shifting from years of sluggish connectivity to the brink of a digital revolution powered by satellite technology. Historically, Zimbabwe lagged behind regional peers in internet penetration, with only 34.8% of the population having access in 2020, compared to the African average of 43% (DataReportal). This was largely due to underdeveloped infrastructure, high costs, and unreliable service, especially in rural areas.

However, the arrival of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet providers, most notably Starlink, is poised to upend this status quo. In May 2024, Zimbabwe’s government officially licensed Starlink, marking a pivotal moment for nationwide connectivity (Bloomberg). Starlink’s promise of high-speed, low-latency internet—regardless of geography—has already generated significant anticipation among businesses, educational institutions, and households previously left behind by traditional ISPs.

Projections suggest a rapid expansion in user adoption. The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) forecasts internet penetration to surpass 60% by 2026, driven largely by satellite and mobile broadband uptake (POTRAZ). Early demand is robust: within weeks of Starlink’s announcement, thousands of pre-orders were registered, and local resellers reported overwhelming inquiries from both urban and rural customers (TechZim).

• Rural Connectivity: Satellite internet is expected to bridge the digital divide, with rural adoption rates projected to triple by 2026 as installation costs decrease and awareness grows.
• Business and Education: SMEs and schools are anticipated to be early adopters, leveraging reliable internet for e-commerce, remote learning, and digital services.
• Affordability: While initial hardware costs remain a barrier, government incentives and potential local manufacturing partnerships could lower entry points, further accelerating adoption.

In summary, Zimbabwe’s internet revolution is set to accelerate rapidly, with satellite technology at its core. The coming years will likely see a surge in user adoption, transforming economic opportunities and digital inclusion across the nation.

Connectivity Gaps and Progress Across Provinces

Zimbabwe’s internet landscape has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past decade, shifting from patchy, unreliable connections to a rapidly expanding digital infrastructure. Historically, the country’s connectivity was hampered by limited investment, outdated copper networks, and a heavy reliance on mobile data. According to the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), internet penetration stood at just 11.5% in 2012. By the end of 2023, this figure had surged to over 65%, driven by both public and private sector initiatives.

Despite this progress, significant connectivity gaps persist across Zimbabwe’s provinces. Urban centers like Harare and Bulawayo enjoy relatively robust 4G coverage and fiber-optic rollouts, with providers such as Liquid Intelligent Technologies and Econet Wireless leading the charge. In contrast, rural provinces—including Matabeleland North, Mashonaland Central, and parts of Manicaland—continue to lag behind, with many communities relying on slow 2G/3G networks or lacking access altogether. The 2022 ICT Access by Households and Use by Individuals Survey found that only 23% of rural households had internet access, compared to 74% in urban areas.

The advent of satellite internet is poised to bridge these divides. In 2023, Zimbabwe approved the licensing of Starlink, SpaceX’s low-earth orbit satellite service, and Eutelsat, opening the door for high-speed, low-latency connectivity in even the most remote regions (TechZim). Early pilot projects in provinces like Masvingo and Mashonaland West have demonstrated the potential for satellite to deliver speeds exceeding 100 Mbps, a game-changer for rural schools, clinics, and businesses.

• Urban-Rural Divide: Urban internet penetration exceeds 70%, while rural areas remain below 25% (ZIMSTAT 2022).
• Mobile Dominance: Over 98% of internet subscriptions are mobile-based, but fixed broadband is growing, especially in cities (POTRAZ).
• Satellite Expansion: Starlink and Eutelsat are expected to cover all provinces by 2025, targeting underserved communities.

Zimbabwe’s internet revolution is far from complete, but the convergence of mobile, fiber, and satellite technologies is rapidly closing the connectivity gap, promising more inclusive digital growth across all provinces.

Anticipated Developments in Zimbabwe’s Internet Ecosystem

Zimbabwe’s internet landscape is on the cusp of a transformative revolution, shifting from historically unreliable connectivity to the promise of high-speed, satellite-powered access. For years, Zimbabwe lagged behind regional peers in internet penetration and quality, with the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) reporting internet penetration at just 65.7% in 2023. This figure, while an improvement from previous years, still reflects significant urban-rural disparities and persistent challenges with affordability and infrastructure.

However, 2024 marks a turning point. The entry of global satellite internet providers, most notably Starlink, is set to disrupt the market. In May 2024, the Zimbabwean government officially licensed Starlink, allowing it to operate through a local partner, Dandemutande. This move is expected to dramatically improve internet access, especially in remote and underserved areas where terrestrial infrastructure is lacking (TechZim).

Starlink’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites promise speeds of up to 150 Mbps, a significant leap from the national average of 5.5 Mbps reported by Speedtest Global Index in early 2024. The anticipated reduction in latency and increase in reliability could catalyze digital transformation across sectors such as education, healthcare, and e-commerce. Moreover, competition from satellite providers is likely to pressure traditional ISPs to improve service quality and lower prices, benefiting consumers nationwide.

Government policy is also evolving to support this revolution. The Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services has outlined a Digital Economy Blueprint (2023-2030) that prioritizes universal access, digital literacy, and the expansion of broadband infrastructure. The blueprint aims to achieve 100% internet penetration by 2030, leveraging both terrestrial and satellite technologies.

• Starlink’s launch is expected to connect over 1.5 million rural households by 2025.
• Mobile internet subscriptions are projected to grow by 12% annually, driven by improved coverage and affordability (POTRAZ).
• Private sector investment in digital infrastructure is forecast to exceed $200 million by 2026.

In summary, Zimbabwe’s internet revolution is accelerating, with satellite technology poised to bridge the digital divide and unlock new economic opportunities. The coming years will likely see Zimbabwe transition from lagging signals to a digitally empowered society, connected by sky-high satellites.

Barriers to Progress and Areas for Innovation

Zimbabwe’s journey toward a robust digital ecosystem has been marked by significant barriers, but recent innovations—particularly in satellite internet—are beginning to reshape the landscape. Historically, the country’s internet infrastructure has lagged behind regional peers due to a combination of limited investment, regulatory hurdles, and economic instability. As of 2023, internet penetration stood at just 34.8%, with rural areas especially underserved (DataReportal).

• Infrastructure Deficits: The majority of Zimbabwe’s internet connectivity relies on aging copper lines and limited fiber-optic networks, resulting in slow speeds and frequent outages. Mobile broadband, while more widespread, suffers from high costs and inconsistent coverage, particularly outside urban centers (POTRAZ).
• Regulatory and Economic Challenges: The telecommunications sector faces heavy regulation, foreign currency shortages, and high import tariffs on ICT equipment. These factors have stifled competition and discouraged private investment, further slowing progress (The Herald).
• Affordability: Data costs remain among the highest in Africa, with 1GB of mobile data costing an average of $4.10—well above the continental average (A4AI).

Despite these obstacles, innovation is accelerating. The arrival of satellite internet services, such as Starlink, promises to leapfrog traditional infrastructure bottlenecks. In May 2024, Zimbabwe’s government approved Starlink’s operation, aiming to extend high-speed, low-latency internet to remote and rural communities (Bloomberg). This move is expected to catalyze digital inclusion, support e-learning, and enable e-commerce in previously disconnected regions.

Areas ripe for further innovation include:

• Local Content Development: Encouraging the creation of Zimbabwean digital platforms and services tailored to local needs.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Leveraging collaboration to expand last-mile connectivity and reduce costs.
• Digital Literacy Initiatives: Scaling up training to ensure citizens can fully utilize new technologies.

As Zimbabwe transitions from lagging signals to sky-high satellites, overcoming persistent barriers and fostering innovation will be crucial for a truly inclusive internet revolution.

Sources & References

• Zimbabwe’s Internet Revolution: From Lagging Signals to Sky-High Satellites
• POTRAZ
• Liquid Intelligent Technologies
• Cable.co.uk
• Speedtest Global Index
• Econet Wireless
• ZIMSTAT 2022
• Starlink
• A4AI