Story by Owen Mandovha
GOVERNMENT is moving to lower the cost of voice and data services through a review of levies and taxes, as part of broader efforts to bridge the digital divide and support the growth of a modern digital economy.
The initiative was outlined during the Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services’ annual stakeholder engagement, where industry players reviewed sector performance and contributed input towards the 2026 Strategic Action Plan.
Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) Director-General Dr Gift Machengete said progress had been made in expanding digital access, particularly in underserved communities and schools.
“Our digital centres across the country are making a positive impact in terms of giving young people access to modern digital equipment and infrastructure. Last year, we established dozens of digital centres as part of our mandate to sustain a modern,” he said.
Telecommunications operators, through the Telecommunications Operators Association of Zimbabwe (TOAZ), outlined key cost drivers affecting data and voice tariffs, including regulatory fees, municipal charges and other statutory costs.
In response, ICT, Postal and Courier Services Minister Honourable Tatenda Mavetera said Government was already addressing these concerns through a wider review of levies and fees across the economy.
“The concerns raised by the telcos require urgent action, and Government has already slashed levies and fees for the ICT sector, and the reduction of levies for Municipal Authorities will ultimately go a long way to reduce the cost drivers for the data and voice,” Minister Mavetera said.
Officials indicated that once the relevant Statutory Instrument is gazetted, the revised framework is expected to translate into more competitive tariffs, benefiting consumers while supporting sector sustainability.
The reforms form part of Government’s broader digital transformation agenda, which seeks to improve affordability, expand connectivity and position ICTs as a key enabler of economic growth and service delivery.
