Mobile operators in Zimbabwe saw their total revenue jump over eight percent last quarter, reaching nearly seven point three billion ZiG. The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority reported this growth was fueled by internet and data services, which now make up half of all income. Increased usage of apps like Netflix, YouTube, and TikTok drove data traffic up by more than ten percent to over one hundred forty-four petabytes.
The sector continued deploying next-generation infrastructure, adding dozens of new 5G base stations. Econet maintained a leading market share in data traffic, with NetOne also expanding its network coverage. Telecel's position remained minimal and stagnant. This infrastructure rollout aims to support the accelerating shift toward data-intensive services.
Despite higher revenues, the financial picture was mixed. Operating costs rose sharply, worsening the cost-to-income ratio for the networks. Total capital expenditure fell significantly compared to the previous quarter, indicating a pullback in investment spending. The regulator noted that cost increases are currently outpacing revenue growth, impacting operational efficiency.
The sector continued deploying next-generation infrastructure, adding dozens of new 5G base stations. Econet maintained a leading market share in data traffic, with NetOne also expanding its network coverage. Telecel's position remained minimal and stagnant. This infrastructure rollout aims to support the accelerating shift toward data-intensive services.
Despite higher revenues, the financial picture was mixed. Operating costs rose sharply, worsening the cost-to-income ratio for the networks. Total capital expenditure fell significantly compared to the previous quarter, indicating a pullback in investment spending. The regulator noted that cost increases are currently outpacing revenue growth, impacting operational efficiency.
