OWN CORRESPONDENT
HARARE-Following its 9th Annual General Meeting held on 8 August 2025, NetOne has reaffirmed its bold commitment to shaping Zimbabwe’s digital economy through sustained network expansion, innovation-led growth, and deep-rooted community empowerment.
The AGM served not only as a platform to reflect on the company’s strong progress in 2024, but also as a launchpad for renewed confidence in its trajectory — one anchored in tangible results, purpose-driven strategy, and visionary leadership.
Key takeaways from the AGM revealed that NetOne registered a remarkable 110% growth in data revenue, reinforcing its strategic shift towards digital connectivity as Zimbabweans increasingly turn to cloud-based communication, remote work tools, and e-learning platforms. This growth was backed by the rollout of 86 new sites across the country, including 264 LTE and 16 5G-enabled base stations, with every new site launched offering at least 4G capability. This deliberate investment in modern infrastructure reflects the company’s dedication to delivering fast, reliable, and inclusive service to all Zimbabweans — urban and rural alike.
Beyond its commercial gains, NetOne’s 9th AGM placed strong emphasis on its nationwide social impact, with interventions directly aligned to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In pursuit of SDG 4: Quality Education, the company renovated and refurbished five rural schools, including Nyamuroro Primary School, and launched computer laboratories to bridge the digital divide. Advancing SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, NetOne capacitated clinics and hospitals in areas such as Kwekwe and Chiweshe, and launched five virtual telemedicine hospitals across five provinces. Under SDG 5 and SDG 10, the #Impacting Lives campaign provided lip balms and sunscreens to people with albinism in six provinces, while also supporting girls with sanitary wear.
To address food security and clean water access, aligned to SDG 2, SDG 6, and SDG 13, NetOne installed 16 solar-powered nutritional gardens and drilled 20 boreholes in all ten provinces, including Gokwe Kana. The company also led 30 nationwide clean-up campaigns, including major drives in Harare CBD. These interventions reaffirm NetOne’s role as a national development partner supporting Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) — connecting communities and transforming lives across Zimbabwe.
Financially, the AGM confirmed encouraging signals. Revenue rose by 62% compared to prior year, driven primarily by strong performance in data and voice products. While operating costs adjusted in line with inflation and increased activity, NetOne posted a healthy 68% increase in EBITDA, reflecting efficiency in operations and a resilient commercial model. Despite macroeconomic volatility, the company continues to demonstrate that it can navigate a complex environment while building long-term value.
Stakeholders were also assured of the company’s stability and governance structures, with strong support from the Shareholder; Mutapa Investment Fund, a responsive and visionary Board, and the stewardship of Group Chief Executive Officer Eng. Raphael Mushanawani, whose leadership has positioned NetOne as both a technology enabler and a development partner.
Looking ahead, the AGM outlined a forward-looking roadmap that includes the launch of cloud-based enterprise services, specialised IoT offerings, and the continued rollout of base stations in connectivity-starved areas. These plans are not only commercially strategic — they are a statement of intent: that NetOne is here to power a digitally connected Zimbabwe where no one is left behind.
The 9th AGM did not just review a year of results — it cast a clear, ambitious vision of the future and by all measures, NetOne is on the right trajectory — building networks, uplifting communities, and reinforcing its place as a pillar of national progress.
