Wedoany.com Report-Jun 21, Paratus Zimbabwe, a subsidiary of the Paratus Group, has signed an agreement with PowerTel to launch a new high-capacity national fiber network across Zimbabwe. The collaboration aims to enhance digital infrastructure and provide reliable, high-speed connectivity across the country and beyond.

PowerTel, a fully owned subsidiary of the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), holds the license to operate an optical fiber backbone network. Paratus Zimbabwe, which was granted its communications license earlier this year, will work jointly with PowerTel to develop this fiber network. Both companies will invest equally in the rollout of the infrastructure.

The project will be carried out in phases, with the first phase scheduled for completion within the next six months. It will involve connecting the towns of Plumtree, Bulawayo, and Livingstone. The initiative also includes the development of cross-border links, enhancing regional connectivity with Zimbabwe’s neighboring countries.

Willard Nyagwande, Acting Managing Director of PowerTel Communications, commented: “This marks a major step forward in Zimbabwe’s digital transformation because this partnership will enable us to deliver on our mission to provide high capacity and affordable connectivity to the people and enterprises of Zimbabwe. We are proud to be working with Paratus Zimbabwe and to be creating a resilient national long-distance backbone.”

Martin Cox, Chief Commercial Officer of Paratus Group, stated: “This is very good news for Zimbabwe, and we are delighted to be partnering with PowerTel to bring about this landmark deal. Paratus Zimbabwe will be offering an unmatched service through the Paratus Group’s quality network. By extending our footprint into yet another African territory, we will bridge gaps between neighbouring countries and further strengthen and widen our contiguous network offering.”

The Paratus Group is involved in building and operating digital networks across Africa. Through this partnership, it aims to support the growth of regional connectivity and provide businesses and communities with improved access to digital services. The joint network will help meet increasing demand for high-speed data and resilient infrastructure, contributing to Zimbabwe’s broader goals in digital development.

This new fiber network is expected to become a critical part of Zimbabwe’s digital backbone, supporting both public and private sector needs. With improved connectivity, it will help enable more inclusive access to information, education, and economic opportunities.

The partnership between Paratus Zimbabwe and PowerTel underscores ongoing efforts to expand digital infrastructure in Africa through collaboration, investment, and innovation. It also marks another step for Paratus Group in strengthening its presence across the continent.