renewable energy

Zimbabwe: Telcos Econet, Netone walk a tightrope amid power crisis

By Farai Shawn Matiashe

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Posted on January 24, 2023 14:55

© A Zimbabwean man speaks on his phone outside a branch of mobile service provider Econet Wireless in central Harare, June 6, 2014. REUTERS — A Zimbabwean man speaks on his phone outside a branch of mobile service provider Econet Wireless in central Harare, June 6, 2014. REUTERS

Some areas in Zimbabwe are experiencing load-shedding for more than 18 hours, a power crisis that has ripped through businesses across the country. Telecom operators are not spared, with some key players in the sector long investing in renewable energy, aiming for a respite amid the ongoing electricity outages.

One of these firms is Econet Wireless, a leading mobile operator owned by telecom giant Strive Masiyiwa. Shortages of foreign currency in Zimbabwe, however, are hampering plans to increase solar-powered base stations.

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