The Zimbabwean government, led by ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera, has announced new measures aimed at improving telecommunications services in the country.

These measures include implementing fines ranging from $200 to $5,000 for telecommunications companies that fail to provide reliable service.

Fungai Mandiveyi from Econet Wireless noted that the new penalty model is clearer and easier to comply with, as it specifies breaches of service quality.

This initiative comes in response to widespread dissatisfaction among Zimbabweans regarding poor and expensive telecom services.

In a bid to enhance connectivity, the government has also approved Starlink, owned by Elon Musk, to operate in Zimbabwe, aiming to provide affordable internet access.

Independent consultant Willard Shoko emphasized that collaboration between the government, local ISPs, and Starlink could lead to improved internet services and infrastructure investment.

Shoko further advocates for better infrastructure sharing and collaboration among service providers to enhance internet quality, which is crucial for the digital economy.

However, Christopher Musodza, a digital policy consultant, cautioned that frequent power outages could challenge telecom companies' ability to maintain service standards.

Musodza also highlighted the high costs associated with running generators to avoid fines, amidst the economic stress caused by long load shedding hours.

Despite these challenges, Shoko believes that the fines could ultimately strengthen the telecommunications industry and enhance competition in southern Africa.