Powertel Communications has taken a significant step towards strengthening Zimbabwe’s digital infrastructure following the successful commissioning of the first phase of its cross-border fibre partnership with Paratus Zimbabwe, creating a high-capacity regional connectivity corridor.
The first operational section of the project, stretching between Plumtree and Bulawayo, is now carrying live traffic, becoming the first Paratus-connected fibre route into Zimbabwe and linking the country to Botswana, Zambia and South Africa through the wider Paratus network.
Speaking at the commissioning, Powertel Communications managing director, Willard Nyagwande said the milestone reflected the success of a strategic partnership designed to transform Zimbabwe’s telecommunications landscape.
“This is a defining moment for Powertel as the project is planned, built, owned and operated by Powertel as the licensed national carrier under POTRAZ and the telecommunications arm of ZESA. The IRU with our partner Paratus is the commercial vehicle that this project’s success rides on,” he said.
Nyagwande said the Indefeasible Right of Use (IRU) model had turned a national infrastructure ambition into a commercially viable investment capable of supporting future expansion.
“The IRU converts a national infrastructure ambition into a bankable, investable, replicable commercial reality. It aligns the incentives of both parties over the full economic life of the asset,” he said.
Mutapa Investment Fund Head of Energy and Investment Cluster, Tinashe Yafele said the project marked a major milestone in Zimbabwe’s digital transformation agenda.
“With an equipped capacity of 800Gbps, this project stands as a significant landmark in Zimbabwe’s digital transformation journey. It represents a strategic investment in Zimbabwe’s digital economy, regional integration and long-term economic development,” he said.
Paratus Group Chief Commercial Officer, Martin Cox said the commissioning of the first phase was a significant step towards establishing a resilient regional digital corridor that will enhance connectivity and support economic growth across Southern Africa. The partnership combines Powertel’s nationwide fibre backbone with Paratus’ extensive pan-African network and technical expertise, strengthening Zimbabwe’s position as a key digital gateway within the region while improving connectivity for businesses and internet service providers.
