Journalists in Bulawayo have urged state-owned mobile operator NetOne to prioritise lower data costs, stronger network performance and closer collaboration with media organisations, warning that weak connectivity is increasingly undermining news production and distribution across Zimbabwe.
The concerns were raised during a stakeholder engagement in the city, where media professionals said affordable and reliable internet access had become essential as journalism shifts further towards digital platforms, mobile reporting and real-time publishing. According to Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), mobile data prices in Zimbabwe remain among the highest in the region when measured against average incomes, placing sustained pressure on newsrooms and freelance reporters.
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Participants said connectivity challenges are most visible when journalists compare local conditions with international travel experiences, where public Wi-Fi and stable mobile networks allow immediate access to digital tools. As reported by International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Zimbabwe’s mobile broadband penetration continues to lag behind global averages, reflecting infrastructure gaps and limited investment in high-capacity networks.
Journalists also called for deeper partnerships between NetOne and media houses, arguing that collaboration could improve the reach and impact of public-interest information. Engagements with radio stations were highlighted as particularly important, given radio’s continued dominance in rural and marginalised communities where mobile data usage remains constrained.
Tailored data packages for broadcasters were proposed as a practical intervention to support live streaming, outside broadcasts and digital audience growth. According to Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat), radio remains the primary source of information for a majority of households outside major urban centres, reinforcing its role in national communication.
Beyond newsroom needs, participants linked connectivity to broader social outcomes, suggesting that community Wi-Fi hubs could support education, cultural activities and youth engagement, while also improving access to public services and information in underserved areas.
Journalists further urged NetOne to expand multilingual communication by producing content and promotional material in all recognised indigenous languages, arguing that inclusive digital access is critical in a country with significant linguistic diversity.
In response, NetOne said it was engaging stakeholders as part of its public mandate, noting that regional consultations were intended to better align services with community needs. The company indicated that feedback from the media would inform future decisions on affordability, partnerships and network improvements.