POTRAZ unveils bold initiatives to drive sustainable growth in Zimbabwe’s telecoms sector

ROBIN PHIRI

The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) has unveiled a series of ambitious initiatives aimed at fostering a sustainable telecommunications sector in Zimbabwe.

Recognizing the pivotal role telecom services play in economic growth, social progress, and environmental responsibility, the authority is proactively addressing key challenges to ensure a greener and more inclusive future.

Phibion Chaibva, POTRAZ’s Consumer Affairs Manager, underscored the sector’s pressing concerns, including high energy consumption, the digital divide, and climate change impacts. As one of the most energy-intensive industries, telecom infrastructure—such as base stations and data centers—relies heavily on electricity.

To mitigate these challenges, POTRAZ has launched several key projects, focusing on renewable energy solutions, infrastructure sharing, and the Universal Services Fund.

“We are collaborating with telecom operators to encourage the deployment of renewable energy solutions,” Chaibva stated, highlighting efforts to reduce the sector’s carbon footprint.

POTRAZ is also advocating for the shared use of infrastructure among operators, a move designed to optimize energy usage and cut down on carbon emissions.

“All new base stations should be designed for shared use by various operators,” Chaibva added.

A major priority for the authority is bridging the digital divide.

By pushing for affordable data plans and accessible devices, as well as supporting digital literacy initiatives, POTRAZ aims to ensure that ICT services are within reach of low-income populations. “We are also engaging with the government to reduce taxes on ICT gadgets and airtime,” Chaibva remarked.

Furthermore, POTRAZ is championing digital transformation across key sectors, including e-agriculture, e-health, and e-education. “We are investing in innovative solutions and encouraging the adoption of digital technologies to drive economic and social development,” Chaibva emphasized.

In its bid to support a low-carbon digital economy, POTRAZ is backing initiatives such as smart grids, intelligent transport systems, and the promotion of electric vehicles to minimize carbon emissions. “We advocate for the use of electric vehicles and smart transportation systems,” Chaibva said.

POTRAZ is also promoting circular economy practices, urging the reuse and recycling of electronic devices to reduce waste and preserve resources. The authority stressed the critical need for collaboration between the government, industry stakeholders, and civil society to achieve these sustainability goals.

“We are optimistic about the future of Zimbabwe’s digital economy, and we believe it holds vast potential for growth, innovation, and transforming the lives of our people,” Chaibva concluded.

As POTRAZ advances its efforts to create a resilient and sustainable telecommunications sector, the authority remains committed to building an inclusive digital economy that benefits all Zimbabweans.