STATE-OWNED mobile network operator NetOne has launched an ambitious nationwide Wi-Fi hotspot rollout targeting key tourism destinations and economic hubs, aiming to position Zimbabwe as a smart, digitally connected tourism destination.
The initiative comes as Zimbabwe continues to attract global attention, including its recognition by Forbes as a leading tourist destination and a recent viral visit by online personality IShowSpeed, which boosted international visibility.
Speaking to NewsDay, NetOne public relations manager Ernest Magadzire said the rollout was a deliberate, impact-driven programme aligned with national development priorities.
“The rollout is being executed over an accelerated 12 to 18-month timeline, in line with the government’s urgency to modernise critical sectors under NDS2 and fast-track progress towards Vision 2030,” he said.
Magadzire said NetOne had deployed real-time network monitoring systems, artificial intelligence-enabled optimisation tools and rapid-response technical teams to ensure uninterrupted connectivity and high service standards.
He said the initiative was designed to deliver measurable economic impact, with key performance indicators (KPIs) aligned to tourism growth and digital transformation outcomes.
“This is not merely connectivity deployment, it is the creation of a seamless digital experience for every visitor, positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive, smart tourism destination on the global stage.
“Our KPIs include near 100% network availability across strategic tourism zones, increased digital engagement by tourists and operators, and greater uptake of digital payments, bookings and e-services,” Magadzire said.
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He said the rollout was expected to enhance operational efficiency within tourism institutions while contributing to increased tourist arrivals, spending and overall sector growth.
Magadzire said the initiative was also aligned with the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and Smart Zimbabwe 2030 vision, with NetOne investing in future-proof infrastructure to support intelligent tourism systems.
“We are deploying high-capacity broadband and fibre backbone networks, cloud infrastructure platforms, IoT-enabled connectivity and AI-ready architecture to support predictive analytics, personalised services and intelligent resource management.
“This infrastructure will empower stakeholders to collect and analyse real-time tourism data, unlocking insights that drive policy precision, operational efficiency and enhanced visitor satisfaction.”
