The Launch of Zimbabwe’s National Fiber Backbone Project
Paratus Zimbabwe and Powertel Communications, the information and communication technology (ICT) division of the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), have confirmed that the first phase of the national fiber backbone project is now operational and carrying live traffic.
In an official statement, Paratus Zimbabwe highlighted that this development marks a critical advancement in establishing a high-capacity digital corridor that links Zimbabwe with Botswana, Zambia, South Africa, and the broader Paratus network across southern Africa.
This new route represents a significant milestone in the public-private partnership (PPP) agreement signed in June 2025 between Powertel Communications and Paratus Zimbabwe, aimed at jointly investing in and developing high-capacity long-haul fiber infrastructure across Zimbabwe.
According to Paratus Zimbabwe, Powertel Communications, as an equal investment partner, will enhance its extensive domestic fiber backbone, while Paratus will contribute its continental network reach and technical expertise, fostering the development of resilient telecommunications infrastructure throughout Africa.
Paratus further noted that the Plumtree-Bulawayo service leg is the first active fiber route to be activated in Zimbabwe, marking an important step toward deeper regional integration.
The company emphasized that this project goes beyond simply adding another fiber route; it will facilitate interconnectivity by linking Zimbabwe to Africa’s leading networks. This connection will bolster cross-border communication, enhance digital inclusion, and support long-term economic growth across the region.
High-Capacity Infrastructure Enhancements
Utilizing cutting-edge Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM) technology, the new route is designed to deliver capacity exceeding 10 Terabits per second. The live section connecting Plumtree and Bulawayo is initially expected to operate at a capacity of 800 Gbit per second.
The second phase, which will connect Bulawayo and Livingstone, is projected to go live in September 2026, completing this strategic cross-border corridor linking the three countries.
Expanding the Paratus Group Network
Martin Cox, chief commercial officer of Paratus Group, stated that the live rollout signifies a significant leap toward realizing the vision of interconnected regional corridors.
Cox elaborated that this initiative is more than just infrastructure—it’s about crafting a digital foundation that fosters economic growth, promotes regional integration, and improves access to high-quality connectivity.
By incorporating Zimbabwe into the Paratus network, the company aims to enhance its contiguous network, extending from South Africa through Botswana and Zimbabwe to Zambia. This will fortify connectivity for businesses, service providers, and communities across the region.
Strengthening Connectivity Goals
Powertel Communications Managing Director Willard Nyagwande emphasized that this achievement underscores the power of collaboration in meeting national and regional connectivity objectives.
Nyagwande highlighted that the Inviolable Use Rights (IRU) agreement with Paratus will secure financial backing from a seasoned partner while retaining operational control over the fiber assets.
An IRU serves as a long-term, irrevocable contract granting an organization exclusive rights to utilize a specific strand of dark fiber or network capacity.
He explained that this IRU transforms national infrastructure ambitions into viable, investable commercial prospects, aligning the interests of both parties over the entire economic lifespan of the asset.
Future Prospects in African Connectivity
Paratus Group operates across 16 countries in Africa, managing intercontinental fiber networks and satellite infrastructure, including the Equiano submarine cable. In February 2026, the group activated 2,000 kilometers of fiber routes connecting Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) through Mombasa and Nairobi in Kenya, and extending to Kampala in Uganda and Kigali in Rwanda.
The group also offers data center operations, network services, and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite services. In 2023, Paratus secured exclusive rights in Africa for Starlink’s Global LEO satellite services, allowing it to deliver satellite-based connectivity across various markets on the continent.
