Econet unleashes bold AI revolution: Zimbabwe’s telecom giant accelerates digital transformation
ECONET Wireless Zimbabwe is pioneering a new era of digital innovation, rolling out a sweeping artificial intelligence (AI) strategy that’s reshaping its business from the ground up.
The country’s leading mobile network operator has recruited over 100 engineers and specialists to fuel this transformation, signalling a decisive shift from AI experimentation to full-scale operational integration.
“AI is now at the core of our customer experience, network optimisation, operational efficiency, and product innovation,” said Chairman James Myers.
He underscored that through a strategic partnership with Cassava AI and access to NVIDIA’s accelerated computing, Econet is deploying practical AI solutions across telecommunications, finance, agriculture, insurance, mining, healthcare, retail, logistics, education, and government.
Key highlights of Econet’s AI drive include: CAIMEx – a multi-model platform for seamless AI access, EcoChat AI – boosting customer and enterprise engagement, Google Gemini – launched free for eligible users, expanding productivity, Yamurai – AI-driven engagement supporting local languages (Shona, Ndebele upcoming) and EcoAI Tokens – bundled access to leading AI models (ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, Mistral) through a single subscription.
AI-powered predictive analytics and automation are already transforming Econet’s network operations, optimizing performance, reducing costs, and ensuring proactive service as Zimbabwe’s demand for connectivity soars. The company is also tackling power-related network challenges by rolling out nationwide solar solutions and preparing to commission a new power plant for critical infrastructure.
Econet is expanding its 4G/5G network, phasing out legacy 3G, and driving affordable device adoption, while its EcoCash Super App—now surpassing one million downloads—is redefining integrated digital payments and lifestyle services.
On the infrastructure front, Econet Infraco is investing in renewable energy, predictive maintenance, and monitoring, with Phase One of a 100 MW solar farm advancing to support Tech City developments. Solar installations at 86 clinics and mini-grids for schools and communities underscore Econet’s commitment to sustainability and social impact.
The company continues to strengthen regulatory engagement and compliance, with robust focus on data protection, cybersecurity, and AI governance. As Econet positions itself at the forefront of digital transformation, AI remains central to service quality, efficiency, personalisation, and new revenue streams.
For the half-year ending August 31, 2026, Econet declared and paid interim dividends of 1.30 US cents per share, underscoring confidence in its growth trajectory. – _*NewZimbabwe*_
