Zim open for more entrants in ICT sector
STAFF WRITER
Zimbabwe is open for more entrants in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector to bring competition and reduce data prices in the process, a top Cabinet Minister has said.
Speaking at the Business Times’ inaugural telecommunications conference held in the capital Harare on Thursday, Minister of Information and Communications Technology (ICT), Postal and Courier Services, Dr Tatenda Mavetera, said more players in the sector will improve service delivery and data affordability.
“In line with the Zimbabwe is open for business mantra, we continue to call for and to welcome investments in the ICT sector.
“We strongly believe that more players in the industry not only provide healthy competition but they give the consumers wider and better choices.
“The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) remains ready to licence all well meaning entrants into the sector,” Dr. Mavetera said.
This comes as the country made stunning U-turn on Starlink usage after reports that some senior government officials are in talks with the satellite internet service provider owned by billionaire Elon Musk.
The consideration of Starlink usage shows Zimbabwe could open up huge investments in the Telecomms industry.
Dr Mavetera said the government is a partner to the ICT sector and it exists to promote development that improves the lives of our people while also allowing the industry and commerce to make profit and contribute to the national economy.
“I would be remiss If I don’t speak to Telecomms industry players about their important role in shaping the digital development and growth of Zimbabwe.
“All the digital development targets of the government are anchored on the nation having efficient, accessible and affordable access to connectivity,” she said.