Story by Providence Maraneli
THE expansion of mobile network infrastructure into previously underserved border communities is unlocking new economic opportunities, with improved connectivity helping farmers and traders in Gwanda South grow their businesses.
For Emmanuel Moyo of Halisupi, reliable mobile network coverage has transformed his horticulture enterprise.
After returning from South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic, Moyo invested in farming, a decision he says has paid off as improved connectivity allows him to access wider markets.
The commissioning of the Mlambapele mobile base station has enabled him to communicate with customers and supply produce beyond his local community.
“I am now able to supply as far as Gwanda and Bulawayo. I learnt this in South Africa, then decided to come home after COVID. Now I don’t regret the decision because we have become a model agro-business venture,” he said.
His wife, Mrs Simeleni Moyo said returning home had exceeded the family’s expectations.
“When my husband said, ‘Let’s go ekhaya’, I was not sure, but now we are living a dream life. Trucks now come here to collect our produce, and everything happening here makes me happy.”
The benefits of improved connectivity are also being felt at the upgraded Mlambapele Border Post, where transport operators and traders now communicate more efficiently.
Local transporter Pledge Gwati, who uses a scotch cart to ferry goods purchased from Botswana, said mobile coverage has made his work easier.
“We are grateful that we now have a mobile network here. I get calls, and then I come to transport their goods.”
Other residents said the network has eliminated the need to travel long distances simply to access communication services.
“We are happy. Back in the day we used to walk more than 30 kilometres because there was no network. Now we can speak to transporters while we are still in Botswana,” one villager said.
In addition to upgrading Mlambapele Border Post from a seasonal crossing into a digitalised border facility, Government has expanded mobile network coverage to improve communication and support economic activity in border communities.
