Powertel Communications and Paratus Zimbabwe have activated the first phase of a new cross-border fibre route that will strengthen digital connectivity across Southern Africa. The live section, stretching between Plumtree and Bulawayo, marks the first milestone in a public-private partnership signed in June 2025 to build high-capacity fibre infrastructure linking Zimbabwe with Botswana, Zambia, South Africa and the wider Paratus network.
The project combines Powertel’s national fibre backbone with Paratus’ continental network and technical expertise, with both companies investing equally in the initiative. Built on Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) technology, the network is capable of supporting more than 10 terabits per second, with the first phase launching with an initial equipped capacity of 800Gbps to meet growing demand for reliable, high-speed connectivity.
The next phase, connecting Bulawayo to Livingstone in Zambia, is scheduled to go live in September, completing a strategic three-country digital corridor. According to Powertel Acting Managing Director Willard Nyagwande, the infrastructure remains under Powertel’s ownership and operation, while Paratus supports the investment through an indefeasible right of use (IRU) agreement that provides a sustainable commercial framework for future expansion.
Paratus Group Chief Commercial Officer Martin Cox said the project goes beyond fibre deployment by creating digital infrastructure that supports economic growth, regional integration and access to world-class connectivity. The expanded route also extends Paratus’ contiguous network from South Africa through Botswana and Zimbabwe into Zambia, strengthening regional digital links.
The project has also received support from Zimbabwe’s Mutapa Investment Fund, which said the initiative aligns with the country’s Vision 2030, National Development Strategy and Digital Economy Strategy. By improving digital infrastructure for commerce, education, healthcare, financial services and e-government, the partnership is expected to play a key role in accelerating digital transformation and regional economic development across Southern Africa.
