Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has launched the fifth generation technology standard for broadband cellular networks popularly called 5G.
The Country’s biggest MNO partnered with global technology infrastructure suppliers Ericson and ZTE, making it the first network operator to offer the service in the country.
It officially launched the first phase of the service in the capital Harare and will expand to other areas.
The group said by end of April it would have developed 22 base stations country wide.
Econet CEO Dr Douglas Mboweni said the 5G technology will change the way people live.
“The 5G technology will transform the way we all live and work, offering customers significantly greater network capacity, ultra low latency and super fast broadband speeds that open vast possibilities for our individual, business and enterprise customers.
“The technology allows several devices to be connected at the same time, allowing for new automation possibilities, seamless communication and interconnectivity between multiple smart devices, commonly known as the internet of things (IoT),” Said Dr Mboweni.
Speaking during the launch, Econet Chief Operating Officer Mr Kezito Makuni, said 5G network will offer new use cases while at the same time helping them meet existing demand for mobile broadband services
Industry regulator Potraz’s sector performance reports show that Econet has long been a leader in infrastructure investment beginning with 2G, 3G, and 4G before this launch of 5G technology.