
Econet Wireless in Zimbabwe is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to increase data demand on its network and expand its 5G infrastructure.
In a recent trade statement, Tatenda Ngowe, Econet Wireless’s company secretary, highlighted that the mobile operator is accelerating its shift to a digital services-oriented model for the quarter ending May 31.
Ngowe mentioned that Econet has enhanced its operations during this period by leveraging “the combined strengths of network infrastructure, financial platforms, and data-driven AI solutions. “
“AI-driven applications, which utilise the upgraded network, are becoming essential to our processes. They enable us to better understand our customers’ needs and usage patterns, enabling us to deliver hyper-personalised services,” Ngowe explained.
Econet has been actively modernising its network, and these efforts are yielding positive results. Data traffic more than doubled in the quarter that ended in May, while voice call volumes rose by 44% compared to the previous year.
The company attributes this growth to the ongoing demand for connectivity and the continuous expansion of its digital ecosystems.
“As data consumption continues to grow, it highlights the critical importance of data services for the future of telecommunications, offering substantial untapped opportunities for long-term value creation,” Ngowe added.
Econet has launched 20 new sites to support this growth and expanded its 5G coverage across Zimbabwe.