Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has dismissed as false a widely circulated social media post claiming the company will deduct funds from EcoCash wallets of customers who use virtual private networks (VPNs) to access free data.
The post, which resembled an official Econet announcement, falsely alleged that the company had detected unauthorized VPN activity and would impose automated deductions to recover data costs.
The image, which appeared to be from Econet’s official X (formerly Twitter) page, was captioned “Scam Alert” and marked “FAKE” by the company, indicating that it was not an official statement. The fake post reads:
<blockquote>
We’ve detected unauthorized VPN activity that’s been compromising our network security and allowing unauthorized access to our data services. 
Unfortunately, this has resulted in some customers using our data for free.
To rectify this situation and ensure fairness for all, we’ll be implementing automated deductions from Ecocash wallets for customers who have been using the offending VPN application.
The deductions will be based on the amount of data used.
Please note that customers who haven’t used the VPN application will not be affected.
</blockquote>

Pindula News

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe says a post saying they will charge money from EcoCash wallets of people who use VPNs for free data is not true. The fake post claimed unauthorized VPN activity would lead to deductions from wallets. Econet marked the post as fake and said it was not official. The post said customers who used VPNs for free data would have money deducted from their wallets based on how much data they used. The company clarified that only people who did not use VPNs would not be affected by the deductions.

Econet Dismisses Viral Post On VPN Data Access Charges

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has firmly denied claims that it had been hacked and that customer records containing sensitive information, such as full names, addresses, Twitter handles, and mobile numbers, were stolen and subsequently sold.
The allegations were made by cybersecurity watchdog FalconFeeds.io, which reported that over 852,000 customer records had been leaked. The group posted on X:
<blockquote>
<h2>Data Breach Alert: Econet Wireless Zimbabwe</h2>
A threat actor claims to be selling the database of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe (http://econet.co.zw). The leaked data includes 852,791 customer records containing full names, emails, addresses, Twitter , mobile numbers, and more.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://www.techzim.co.zw/2025/02/econet-refutes-data-breach-claims-says-no-hack-detected/">TechZim</a>, the alleged threat actor, identified as Thaihub, is said to have listed the stolen database for sale with a small charge of $299.
In recent days, several Econet subscribers reported being contacted by suspicious people on WhatsApp, leading them to suspect that their contact details might have been sourced from Thaihub’s purported leak.
However, in a statement to TechZim, Econet Wireless Zimbabwe reassured customers that it had thoroughly investigated the claims and found no evidence of a breach. The statement reads:
<blockquote>
<h2>Econet statement on alleged customer data breach</h2>
Econet Wireless Zimbabwe is aware of a social media post first made on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday (February 4, 2025) claiming that a threat actor was selling part of the Econet’s subscriber list containing 852 791 customer records.
Our internal investigations, which started immediately on the day the allegations were made, have detected no breach on our systems that would lead to unauthorised access to sensitive customer data, that is not already in the public domain or accessible through third parties.
However, because we take claims of any breach of our systems very seriously, the moment the allegations were first reported, we activated our incident management processes, working alongside international cybersecurity experts, and have been monitoring our systems 24/7 to ensure heightened security of our business systems and the privacy of our customers’ sensitive data.
We have also kept our regulators and relevant authorities informed.
</blockquote>

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe says they were not hacked and customer data was not stolen. A group claimed they leaked over 852,000 customer records, but Econet denies this. They investigated and found no evidence of a breach. Some people reported getting strange messages on WhatsApp, leading to suspicions of data leakage. Econet reassures customers they take security seriously and are monitoring their systems to keep data safe. They are working with experts to ensure privacy and security for customers. Econet has also informed regulators about the situation.

Econet Refutes Hack Claims And Data Breach

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe said that it has resolved network issues that affected some customers’ ability to make calls, use mobile data services, or transact using EcoCash between 2 PM and 3:30 PM on Wednesday, 5 February 2025.
In a statement issued later on Wednesday, the company confirmed that all services had been fully restored. It said:
<blockquote>
We experienced some issues on the platforms that enable our subscribers to make calls, use data or carry out EcoCash transactions, resulting in some of our customers being unable to use the services for about an hour and half, starting around 2pm to 3:30pm today (February 5, 2025).
We are pleased to advise that the challenges have since been successfully resolved, and all services have been fully restored.
We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this may have caused our valued customers.
</blockquote>

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe had some problems with their network that stopped some customers from making calls, using data, or using EcoCash on February 5, 2025, between 2 PM and 3:30 PM. They fixed the issues and all services are working again. The company apologized for any inconvenience this may have caused to their customers.

Econet Resolves Network Issues, Restores Services After Brief Outage

Following shareholder approval of the transfer of EcoCash Holdings Zimbabwe Limited’s (EHZL) fintech businesses to Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Limited (EWZL), management has extended voluntary and mutual separation offers to staff in EcoCash Holdings Zimbabwe Limited.
The move follows a Scheme of Reconstruction which was first announced by EWZL and EHZL at the beginning of the year and obtained EcoCash Holdings shareholder approval at an EGM held on April 17, 2024.
Among the reasons cited for the Scheme of Reconstruction was the need for the consolidated business to streamline several duplicated roles and activities, to enhance synergies and preserve shareholder value.
This would necessitate staff rationalisation across the EHZL and EWZL businesses. A spokesman for the company said:
<blockquote>
Management have started the process of operationalising the Scheme of Reconstruction. And while other consultations with various stakeholders progress, they have offered interested staff the opportunity to consider and exercise the option of voluntary separation.
</blockquote>
The EHZL fintech businesses that have been transferred and consolidated into EWZL include EcoCash (Private) Limited, VAYA Technologies Zimbabwe (Private) Limited, Econet Insurance (Private) Limited, Econet Life (Private) Limited, MARS Zimbabwe (Private) Limited and Maisha Health.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

EcoCash Employees Face Tough Choices As Company Offers Voluntary Retrenchment

The Government plans to allow the return of mobile wallet agents such as EcoCash agents as part of ongoing efforts to promote the use of the electronic ZiG and to ensure legal foreign currency trading.
Responding to questions in the Senate last week, Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Deputy Minister, David Mnangagwa, said the Government is working with the private sector to facilitate small transactions. He said (via <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/govt-to-ease-forex-exchange-challenges-through-agents/">The Herald</a>):
<blockquote>
We are working on a solution as Government, coupled with the private sector, to allow for small transactions, that is the general populace to be able to get small amounts, $20 or $50, through negotiations with our mobile network operators to be able to access the bureaux de change that are on their EcoCash or Netcash platforms.
This means if you have an Econet line and if you register for EcoCash, you can convert from ZiG to US dollars, or from US dollars to ZiG at the official exchange rate. That is the first part to allow interchangeability without having to go to the streets.
</blockquote>
Mnangagwa said the plan also involved reactivating EcoCash agents across the country, particularly in rural areas, to ensure that everyone had access to legal foreign currency.
Authorities suspended more than 4,000 EcoCash agents in 2020 on allegations of participating in the “burning of cash”. Said Mnangagwa:
<blockquote>
The second part is, that we are still in discussion. Right now, the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe is talking to the mobile network operators, mentioning Econet in particular because they were suspended in 2020 after some issues that now have been ironed out.
We would want to have agents reactivated so that in the most remote areas, our constituents, and the citizenry can access both US dollars and ZiG from their wallets.
Econet went a step further last week and zero-rated the charges for sending money from parts of the diaspora to Zimbabwe.
This was a show of good faith and support for Government during this El Nino period as well as to show the commitment in bolstering our efforts in supporting and defending.
</blockquote>
Arguably, most Zimbabweans depend on illegal foreign currency dealers to acquire hard currency for purchasing goods and accessing services exclusively offered in US dollars, even by the government.
Despite the government’s ongoing crackdown on informal foreign currency trading, buying foreign currency from friends, relatives, and money changers remains a common and normalised practice.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Plans Return Of Mobile Wallet Agents To Boost Electronic ZiG Usage

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, the country’s largest mobile network operator by subscriber base, has with effect from Tuesday, 20 June, hiked data bundles.
In a brief notice sent via SMS to its millions of subscribers, Econet said:
<blockquote>
We are reviewing our ZWL data and SMEs bundle prices effective Tuesday, 20 June 2023.
</blockquote>
An 8 gig private WIFI data bundle now costs ZWL$111 342 up from ZWL$37 114 while a 15 gig bundle is now available for ZWL$201 033 up from ZWL$67 011.
Econent said a 25 gig will cost ZWL$294 675 from ZWL$98 225 and 50 gig users will have to pay ZWL$506 106 up from ZWL$168 702.
The latest tariff hike by Econet comes as the value of the Zimbabwe dollar has continued to plummet against other currencies at both official and parallel markets.
Some service providers are now devising ways to reject the Zimbabwe dollar such as engaging in forward rating and claiming that their point-of-sale machines are down, leaving customers with no option except to make payments in foreign currency.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Econet In Massive Data Bundle Tariff Hike

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe is set increases voice, Data, and SMS tariffs and bundle prices with effect from 20 April 2023.
Econet, which is by far the country’s largest mobile network operator (MNO) by subscriber base, has notified its customers about the impending tariff adjustment.
A notice published on the company’s social media pages this Wednesday reads:
<blockquote>
Dear Customer, This serves to notify you of the planned changes on our Voice, Data, and SMS Tariffs and Bundles Prices effective Thursday, 20 April 2023.
To access Voice and Data bundles, dial *143#
To Access SMS bundles, dial *140#
</blockquote>
This comes after the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (POTRAZ) approved tariff increases in February and April.
State-owned mobile network operator NetOne increased tariffs on 7 April 2023.
Telecommunications companies in Zimbabwe face various challenges that affect their operations and profitability.
These include a complex and often unpredictable regulatory environment, high inflation rates, currency fluctuations, shortages of foreign currency, frequent power outages, and fraud and cybercrime which has led to financial losses.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Econet Announces Planned Tariffs Hike

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has distanced itself from a message circulating on WhatsApp offering Independence Day Econet 10GB free data.
In a statement released this Monday, Econet said the “promotion” did not originate from them but was the work of scammers. It said:
<blockquote>
Beware of scam WhatsApp chain messages claiming that we are giving away free Econet Data.
Please be advised that these posts are fake, and you should ignore them.
We will communicate through our official channels if we are running any promotions.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://www.rd.com/article/how-to-identify-a-scammer/">Reader’s Digest</a>, here is how to identify scammers:
<ul>
<li>Online scammers often claim to be contacting you on behalf of businesses, brands or organizations you know and trust.</li>
<li>If a company or government agency unexpectedly call you on the phone, that’s a tip-off that a scammer may be on the other end of the line.</li>
<li>Beware of anyone who attempts to rush or push you into making a decision without first giving you time to verify and thoughtfully consider their requests.</li>
<li>Scan any emails, messages or online chats you receive for misspellings, grammatical errors, strange subject lines or other discrepancies.</li>
<li>Criminals build fake profiles on dating apps to lure you in with the promise of love, sometimes resorting to love bombing—and then try to coerce you into giving gifts or cash.</li>
<li>On social networks and fake online retailers that are created specifically to appear to be the real thing, it’s not uncommon to find goods at steep discounts. Trust your instincts, and know that if a price is too good to be true, it’s likely a scam.</li>
<li>A promise of easy money – No legitimate financial investment opportunity is sure to ever pay off 100% of the time—and cannot legally be advertised as “guaranteed” income—so be very leery of anyone promising such.</li>
<li>Requests an unusual payment option – It’s not uncommon for romance scammers or someone who’s hacked a friend’s social media account to request that you send money using peer-to-peer payment systems (PayPal, Venmo, Cash App, etc.), gift cards, Western Union, wire transfers or cryptocurrency tokens.</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Econet Independence Day Free 10GB Data Message Is Fake

Twenty-eight-year-old Vimbai Masiyiwa has said she emulates her father, Strive Masiyiwa, the founder of Econet Wireless.
Vimbai is the executive director of Batoka Hospitality, the first black, female-owned safari lodge group in Africa.
She and her mother, Tsitsi Masiyiwa, founded Batoka Hospitality, a luxury eco-tourism and community development group. Their latest project, the Zambezi Sands River Lodge, is a safari lodge located at the western end of the Zambezi National Park and will open in June. The project focuses on community-led initiatives centred around women’s empowerment.
She had worked with her father for some years, starting as an intern at 14, throughout her university years and working as a special assistant for him until almost two years ago when she fully stepped into her role at Batoka.
She says she’s learnt from her dad to be a great listener, and says her father always hears people out and then says his piece. Vimbai told <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/https-www-newzimbabwe-com-vimbai-masiyiwa-uplifts-local-communities-through-her-safari-lodge-group/">NewZimbabwe</a>:
<blockquote>
I used to jump into saying what it is I wanted, being very straightforward but as I’ve grown over the last few years I’ve really mirrored exactly what I see him do. I’m sure if you put us in the same room and put screen between us and had someone talk to us we would look identical, I mirror everything … from how he sits to how he responds just because I’ve seen him grow in business over the years and I’ve seen what has worked. I’m an observer and I learn by observing. I’m a bit of a copycat in that sense.
</blockquote>
Vimbai has lived in Zimbabwe, South Africa and the United Kingdom (UK), and is currently based in the UK and the US. 
Strive Masiyiwa is a prominent Zimbabwean businessman, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. He also sits on several respectable boards which include the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, National Geographic, Unilever, and Netflix. He has been on The Rockefeller Foundation and is the only African member of the United States Holocaust Memorial. He is also the chairman emeritus of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa and African Union Special Envoy to the continent’s response to COVID-19.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Vimbai Masiyiwa Says She Emulates Her Father

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe deputy CEO Roy Chimanikire is confident the company’s <a href="https://www.ericsson.com/en/press-releases/1/2023/econet-partners-ericsson-to-modernize-network-infrastructure-in-zimbabwe">partnership with Ericsson</a> for 5G expansion across Harare will deliver high connectivity for Zimbabweans.
Ericsson will help Econet upgrade its Radio Access Network (RAN) and mobile Core network. Said Chimanikire:
<blockquote>
Econet Wireless Zimbabwe is on a mission to realize an advanced 5G ecosystem in the country.
Our latest partnership with Ericsson brings us closer to realizing this ambition with 5G expansions in more locations.
Powering several digital technologies, 5G will play a pivotal role in realizing many of the goals outlined in the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 agenda, notably in smart industrialization.
Working alongside Ericsson, we aspire to build a high-performing 5G network that will not only deliver high connectivity but also support industrial and societal advancements in Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
Todd Ashton, Vice President and Head of Ericsson South and East Africa at Ericsson Middle East and Africa, said:
<blockquote>
We have enjoyed a close and productive partnership with Econet for more than two decades, and we remain committed to supporting them in strengthening their network infrastructure as Zimbabwe lays out ambitious digital plans.
Our solutions will provide Econet with incredible speeds and mobility and introduce next-generation connectivity services seamlessly.
It will also accelerate the introduction of new 5G use cases that will support the nation’s digitalization momentum and assert its position in the growing digital economy.
</blockquote>
The upgrades that Ericsson and Econet will be working on will improve everything – 2G, 3G, and 4G.
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Econet - Ericsson Partnership To Deliver High Network Connectivity In Zimbabwe"

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has strengthened its partnership with Ericsson as it embarks on a network upgrade to deliver 5G connectivity in more locations across Harare.
In a <a href="https://www.ericsson.com/en/press-releases/1/2023/econet-partners-ericsson-to-modernize-network-infrastructure-in-zimbabwe">Press release</a>, Ericsson said the partnership with Econet aims to boost digital transformation through the evolution of the existing network to cloud native architecture. It said:
<blockquote>
Econet Wireless Zimbabwe (ZSE: ECO.ZW) has strengthened its partnership with Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) at Mobile World Congress 2023, Barcelona, Spain as it prepares for 5G expansion by modernizing its Radio Access Network (RAN) and mobile Core network across Harare, Zimbabwe.
Through upgrades in its mobile Core and RAN solutions, Ericsson will help accelerate Econet’s digital transformation journey.
The network upgrade will pave the way for Econet to deliver 5G connectivity in more locations, unlocking advanced consumer and enterprise use cases.
As part of the mobile Core evolution, Ericsson will modernize the existing Evolved Packet Core (EPC) network to cloud-native dual-mode 5G Core, as well as upgrade the Unified Data Management (UDM) solution.
The scope of the agreement with Econet also includes Ericsson’s cloud infrastructure solutions, the Circuit Switch Core modernization and the introduction of IP Multimedia System (IMS) for Voice over LTE (VoLTE) and Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi).
Modernizing Econet’s network infrastructure will enable a wide range of services to subscribers, including high-definition VoLTE and applications that require low latency and improved responsiveness.
High-speed internet will be enabled through 4G and 5G radio access networks, coupled to the modernized packet core network.
Along with enhancing user experience, Econet will also benefit from increased network coverage and capacity.
The network modernization will include Econet’s existing 2G, 3G and LTE networks, with Ericsson’s latest 5G multi-band, multi-sector radios – such as Radio 4466 – which offers capacity expansion, energy efficiency and an average of 15 percent reduction in tower load.
Through the partnership, Econet will realize greater LTE indoor penetration and continue its seamless deployment of 5G, Narrowband-Internet of Things (NB-IoT) and private networks.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Econet Partners Ericsson to Modernise Network Infrastructure Across Zimbabwe

Some <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Econet_Wireless_Zimbabwe">Econet Wireless</a> users have taken to social media to complain about the company’s “poor” network saying it was becoming a threat to their “marriages and national security.”
Econet Wireless, the first and largest mobile network services provider in <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe" title="Zimbabwe">Zimbabwe</a> which was founded by billionaire <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Strive_Masiyiwa">Strive Masiyiwa</a>, has been having network issues lately leaving its customers fuming.
Pindula News compiles some responses to Econet Wireless’ network failure:
<blockquote>
When Econet data is down you realize it’s a national threat to security &amp; marriages.
</blockquote>
Nori @Sparkles_05 said:
<blockquote>
No network or data the whole day until now Longest day of my life I tell you You will not see heaven @econet_support
@econetzimbabwe
</blockquote>
Another one said some Econet customers “lost out on life-changing opportunities because Econet could not provide mobile data for 10+ hours.”
Econet Wireless sent a message to its customers apologising for network failure. Read the message shared by some users:
<blockquote>
We apologize for the recharging challenges you may have experienced. Normal service has since been restored. Any inconvenience caused is sincerely regretted
</blockquote>
Some were infuriated by the apology asking why Econet Wireless does not tell them in advance that they may likely experience network failure for them to plan accordingly. 
Some even suggested that “Econet must fire all its engineers“
Rowdy G. (Papuchi) @mcbaudy, a councillor in Harare, suggested that Econet Wireless customers were being punished for being loyal to the network provider. He posted on Twitter on 19 February: 
<blockquote>
The saddest thing is how you fail to ditch them and go for a better network that meets your needs. Econet is arrogant because it knows folks like you vent like kids and still run back to them.
</blockquote>
Chef Fadzi @mapz___ said:
<blockquote>
We spent the whole day without network yesterday, and Econet still had the audacity to send a message telling us they’re increasing tariffs.
</blockquote>
Nqaba Matshazi @nqabamatshazi also complained about tariffs:
<blockquote>
Nothing as extortionate as Econet’s data roaming rates. It’s really not worth it.
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"Poor Econet Network Is A Threat To Marriages" - Users

Some <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Econet_Wireless_Zimbabwe">Econet Wireless</a> users have taken to social media to complain about the company’s “poor” network saying it was becoming a threat to their “marriages and national security.”
Econet Wireless, the first and largest mobile network services provider in <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe" title="Zimbabwe">Zimbabwe</a> which was founded by billionaire <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Strive_Masiyiwa">Strive Masiyiwa</a>, has been having network issues lately leaving its customers fuming.
Pindula News compiles some responses to Econet Wireless’ network failure:
<blockquote>
When Econet data is down you realize it’s a national threat to security &amp; marriages.
</blockquote>
Nori @Sparkles_05 said:
<blockquote>
No network or data the whole day until now Longest day of my life I tell you You will not see heaven @econet_support 
@econetzimbabwe
</blockquote>
Another one said some Econet customers “lost out on life-changing opportunities because Econet could not provide mobile data for 10+ hours.”
Econet Wireless sent a message to its customers apologising for network failure. Read the message shared by some users:
<blockquote>
We apologize for the recharging challenges you may have experienced. Normal service has since been restored. Any inconvenience caused is sincerely regretted
</blockquote>
Some were infuriated by the apology asking why Econet Wireless does not tell them in advance that they may likely experience network failure for them to plan accordingly. 
Some even suggested that “Econet must fire all its engineers“ 
  
Rowdy G. (Papuchi) @mcbaudy, a councillor in Harare, suggested that Econet Wireless customers were being punished for being loyal to the network provider. He posted on Twitter on 19 February: 
<blockquote>
The saddest thing is how you fail to ditch them and go for a better network that meets your needs. Econet is arrogant because it knows folks like you vent like kids and still run back to them.
</blockquote>
Chef Fadzi @mapz___ said:
<blockquote>
We spent the whole day without network yesterday, and Econet still had the audacity to send a message telling us they’re increasing tariffs.
</blockquote>
Nqaba Matshazi @nqabamatshazi also complained about tariffs:
<blockquote>
Nothing as extortionate as Econet’s data roaming rates. It’s really not worth it.
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe (EWZ) says recurrent power cuts have negatively affected the quality of services that the company offers.
The mobile network operator (MNO) says it will increase investment in alternative energy, such as solar batteries and diesel-powered generators though this requires significant amounts of foreign currency.
In a statement accompanying the firm’s trading update for the third quarter to November 2022, EWZ company secretary, Charles Banda said:
<blockquote>
Due to the unreliable national power grid, the business continues to invest in alternative power solutions in a bid to ensure network availability.
As green energy solutions such as solar and battery storage require significant foreign currency investment, the pace of investment has remained below desired levels, thereby impacting service quality.
The business has also had to continue investing in diesel engine generators in the face of sharp declines in available grid power.
</blockquote>
Most base stations (boosters) run on electricity but of late, MNOs have been forced to rely on diesel generators due to load-shedding and this has increased the cost of doing business.

Load Shedding Affecting Network Availability - Econet

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Econet_Wireless_Zimbabwe">Econet Wireless Zimbabwe,</a> a telecommunications company founded by <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Strive_Masiyiwa">Strive Masiyiwa</a>, says the shortage of foreign currency on the market has negatively affected its operations.
In its third quarter (Q3) to November 2022 trading update, Econet said the situation is being worsened by persistent power cuts that have prompted the company to use more foreign currency to invest in alternative energy sources such as solar.
The group said it continues to negotiate payment terms with its network equipment vendors that take into account local business challenges. Read the part of the report:
<blockquote>
Foreign currency availability for servicing our network foreign suppliers continues to be a major challenge and has hampered our ability to implement much-needed network maintenance and expansion.
Overall, the local telecommunications industry has been struggling to meet the capacity and coverage demands of consumers as investment in long overdue capacity enhancements and routine maintenance remains severely constrained by the lack of access to foreign currency for our foreign network suppliers.
</blockquote>
Despite these challenges, Econet’s revenue for the 9 months period grew by 9 per cent in inflation-adjusted terms compared to the same period in the previous fiscal year.
The growth was largely driven by voice and data volumes, which were however weighed down by tariffs which were below inflation.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Masiyiwa's Econet Wireless Bemoans Forex Shortages

Zimbabwe’s largest mobile network operator (MNO) by Subscriber Base, Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, has increased tariffs and bundle prices with effect from 1 January 2023.
In a public notice, Econet said the adjustment is to accommodate the 0.5 percent value-added tax (VAT) increase that came into effect on 1 January. Econet said:
<blockquote>
Please take note that our tariffs &amp; bundle prices have been adjusted in line with VAT changes gazetted in the Finance Act (No.2), 2022 effective 1 Jan 2023.
</blockquote>
In his 2023 national budget statement, Finance and Economic Development Minister, Mthuli Ncube increased VAT from 14.5 percent to 15 percent.
Ncube said the country’s VAT rates of 15 percent are comparatively lower than the SADC regional standard VAT rate, which averages 16 percent.

Econet Increases Tariffs And Bundle Prices

Econet Wireless, which is the country’s leading telecommunications company, says it will review voice, data and SMS prices in both Zimbabwe dollars and US dollars with effect from 16 November 2022.
In a notice to its customers issued this Monday, 14 November, Econet said:
<blockquote>
Please note, we will review our ZWL &amp; USD Voice, Data &amp; SMS Bundle price effective, Wednesday 16 November 2022.
</blockquote>
Responding to social a media user who had asked why the telecoms company was increasing prices in USD considering that the greenback is a stable currency, Econet said:
<blockquote>
Take note that the tariff adjustment is necessitated by the increased operational costs as we want to continue providing exceptional services.
</blockquote>
On 1 November 2022, Econet increased its headline tariffs but did not adjust the cost of its promotional bundles.
Since the start of this month, Econet customers have been paying $41.77 per minute, to make a voice call, up from $25.95.
Data charges also went up to $6.6 per MB, up from $4.1 per MB, while sending an SMS was now costing $8.59 per message, up from $5.33.

Econet Wireless To Raise Tariffs Effective 16 November 2022

Econet Wireless, which is the country’s leading telecommunications company increased its headline tariffs effective from 1 November 2022.
The company, however, said the cost of its promotional bundles remains unchanged for now.
Econet customers will now pay $41.77 per minute, to make a voice call, up from $25.95.
Data charges have gone up to $6.6 per MB, up from $4.1 per MB, while sending an SMS will not cost $8.59 per message, up from $5.33.
Econet spokesman, Fungai Mandiveyi, told NewsDay that the new price review will help it to invest in the network and improve the quality of service to its customers. Said Mandiveyi:
<blockquote>
Our aim is obviously to offer our valued customers an unparalleled customer experience. To do so, the right balance between affordability and quality of service is key.
The level of investment we make in upgrading our network infrastructure will improve network quality which will directly impact our customer experience.
But owing to limited access to foreign currency, this has not always been the case – which is why we welcome the US dollar tariff uplift.
</blockquote>

Econet Raises Voice, SMS Tariffs, Cost Of Promotional Bundles Unchanged

NetOne, the second-largest mobile network operator in Zimbabwe has issued an apology after subscribers reported that they continue to face network challenges following the recent system upgrade.
In a statement issued on Saturday, NetOne said:
<blockquote>
We would like to apologise for the intermittent service being experienced, following the system upgrade.
 Our engineers are working to restore data balances to normalcy.
Thank you for your patience whilst we rectify these challenges. Any inconveniences caused are regretted.
</blockquote>
The development comes just days after Econet Wireless, the biggest mobile network operator in the country, also experienced internet challenges which left the customers angry.
<h2>More: <a class="external text" href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/download/" rel="nofollow">Pindula News </a>is best enjoyed <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/download/?utm_source=PindulaArticles&amp;utm_campaign=DownloadLink">via the App. Download it here</a></h2>

NetOne Apologises Over Network Challenges

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Limited has appointed Elizabeth Masiyiwa to its board of directors.
According to a statement released by the company on its official website, the appointment is with effect from 1 April 2022.
In making the announcement, Econet said Miss Masiyiwa brings a wealth of experience to the board having worked as a senior executive for various organisations including Higherlife Foundation where she is the head of Design and Innovation. Reads the Econet statement in part:
<blockquote>
She has worked in various organisations, spearheading the investment and funding programmes as well as the human capital development of those organisations.
Miss Masiyiwa, who is also a social entrepreneur and philanthropist, also serves on the board of the Harvard University Leadership Council for the Centre of African Studies.
The board of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Limited is pleased to announce the appointment of Miss Elizabeth Tanya Masiyiwa to the board of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Limited.
</blockquote>

<ul>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/02/25/strive-masiyiwa-steps-down-from-econet-board/">Strive Masiyiwa Steps Down From Econet Board</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2022/02/13/econet-founder-strive-masiyiwa-announces-hes-leaving-facebook/">Econet Founder Strive Masiyiwa Announces He’s Leaving Facebook</a></li>
</ul>
Miss Masiyiwa holds a BSc (Hons) degree in Banking and International Finance from Bayes Business School, City University London, a Masters of Social Entrepreneurship from Hult International Business School and is currently completing the Executive MBA from Cambridge Judge Business School, Cambridge University. 
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/elizabeth-masiyiwa-appointed-to-econet-board/">The Herald</a>

Econet Wireless Appoints Elizabeth Masiyiwa To Its Board

<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Strive_Masiyiwa">Strive Masiyiwa</a>, the billionaire founder of <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Econet_Wireless_Zimbabwe">Econet Wireless,</a> has stepped down from the telecommunications giant’s board of directors effective February 1.
He has been on the board since the inception of the company in 1998.
In a statement released Friday, Econet Wireless’ board and management expressed gratitude to Masiyiwa whose leadership they credited for the company’s growth. Reads the statement signed by group company secretary Charles Banda:
<blockquote>
It is through his leadership, dedication and perseverance that the company has grown to become one of Zimbabwe’s largest and most successful businesses. 
The Board and management takes this opportunity to express their appreciation to Mr. Masiyiwa for his entrepreneurial leadership and his unwavering commitment to the company and his philanthropy that has changed the lives of so many in Zimbabwe and across Africa.
</blockquote>
Masiyiwa’s company is into telecommunications, banking and other businesses, and places him in the top 10 of Africa’s richest people.
The philanthropist also sits on a number of respectable boards which include the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, National Geographic, Unilever, <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/12/17/netflix-adds-strive-masiyiwa-to-board-of-directors/">Netflix</a>, has been on The Rockefeller Foundation and is the only African member of the United States Holocaust Memorial. 
He is also the chairman emeritus of the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa and African Union Special Envoy to the continent’s response to Covid-19.
<h2>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Strive Masiyiwa Steps Down From Econet Board

Econet Wireless, the biggest telecommunications company in Zimbabwe, has announced that it will be reviewing the prices of voice, data, and SMS bundles. Econet said in a statement:
<blockquote>
Please note the following tariffs as per regulatory approval, effective Wednesday 29, September 2021. 
<ul>
<li>Voice – ZWL$0.16683 per second </li>
<li>Data – ZWL$1.58521 per MB </li>
<li>SMS – ZWL$2.05821 per SMS </li>
<li>To access Voice &amp; Data bundles dial *143# </li>
<li>To access the SMS Bundles, dial *140#</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
This comes merely days after TelOne and Zol Zimbabwe had also reviewed their prices.
Usually, other mobile operators, NetOne and Telecel review their prices shortly before or after Econet has reviewed its prices.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw">Pindula News</a>

Econet Reviews Prices Of Voice, SMS, Data Bundles

There have been reports claiming that Zimbabwean-born telecoms tycoon, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Strive_Masiyiwa">S</a><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Strive_Masiyiwa">trive Masiyiwa</a>, “fled civil unrest in his homeland at the age of seven (7).”
It is alleged that the 60-year-old London-based billionaire who was recently named in The Sunday Times <a class="linkweb__RespLink-yfb9n-0 brTsSA" href="https://www.thetimes.co.uk/sunday-times-rich-list">Rich List</a> as Britain’s first black billionaire would later come back to Zimbabwe where he worked in the telecoms industry. The Sunday Times report:
<blockquote>
He was born in the country – now modern-day Zimbabwe – in 1961. When he was aged 7 his parents fled the country amid the unrest after Ian Smith’s government declared independence from Britain.
</blockquote>
We present below some information on Strive Masiyiwa:
<ul>
<li>He was born in 1961 in Zimbabwe.</li>
<li>Masiyiwa family moved to Zambia when Strive was 7 years old and settled in a town called Kitwe.</li>
<li>By the time he was 12 years his parents could afford to provide him with a coveted European education, he was sent to a private school in Edinburgh Scotland.</li>
<li>After graduation in 1978, he went back to his country of birth, intending to join the anti-government guerilla forces to liberate Zimbabwe from colonial rule.</li>
<li>Strive was advised by senior officers that they were about to win the war and needed people like him to help build the country.</li>
<li>He returned to school in Britain, graduating with a degree in electrical and electronic engineering from the University of Wales in 1983. He worked briefly in the computer Industry in Cambridge England but soon returned to Zimbabwe in 1984.</li>
<li>Upon his return, Masiyiwa worked for Zimbabwe Posts and Telecommunications Corporation from 1984 to 1988 as senior engineer, then principal engineer.</li>
<li>In 1998, he launched a mobile phone network, Econet Wireless after a 5-year legal battle with the government then led by the late Robert Mugabe that was refusing to give him a license to operate his business.</li>
</ul>

<ul>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/05/23/strive-masiyiwa-named-the-uks-first-black-billionaire/">Strive Masiyiwa Named The UK’s First Black Billionaire</a></li>
<li class="mol-para-with-font"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2018/01/11/strive-masiyiwa-becomes-zimbabwes-first-billionaire/">Masiyiwa Becomes Zimbabwe’s First Billionaire</a></li>
<li class="mol-para-with-font"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/02/28/strive-masiyiwa-ranked-worlds-11th-richest-black-person/">Strive Masiyiwa Ranked World’s 11th Richest Black Person</a></li>
<li class="mol-para-with-font"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/12/18/masiyiwa-reveals-how-patronage-sheer-incompetence-destroyed-ziscosteel/">Masiyiwa Reveals How Patronage &amp; Sheer Incompetence Destroyed Ziscosteel</a></li>
<li class="mol-para-with-font"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/12/17/netflix-adds-strive-masiyiwa-to-board-of-directors/">Netflix Adds Strive Masiyiwa To Board Of Directors</a></li>
<li class="mol-para-with-font"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/07/02/masiyiwa-donates-120-000-test-kits-and-border-laboratories-to-zimbabwe/">Masiyiwa Donates 120 000 Test Kits And Border Laboratories To Zimbabwe</a></li>
<li class="mol-para-with-font"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/06/08/russian-billionaire-sees-various-opportunities-in-zimbabwe/">Russian Billionaire Sees Various Opportunities In Zimbabwe</a></li>
<li class="mol-para-with-font"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/06/21/us-billionaire-flies-into-chiredzi/">US Billionaire Flies Into Chiredzi</a></li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Strive_Masiyiwa">Pindula Masiyiwa Biography</a>; <a href="https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/first-black-billionaire-rich-list-2021-v8kj6z73z">The Sunday Times</a>

"Masiyiwa Fled From Zimbabwe Aged 7" - Media

Some Econet Wireless customers have taken to social media to express their disappointment over the mobile network operator’s provision of “poor services.”
Many who wrote to Econet complained about the poor network which they said made them unable to use the data bundles they had purchased. <a href="https://twitter.com/Tinashe_Maburu/status/1365028625054056452" rel="noopener" target="_blank">One customer wrote on Twitter:</a>
<blockquote>Dear <a data-focusable="true" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/econetzimbabwe" role="link">@econetzimbabwe</a>, with all due respect I would like to express my disappointment in your below par service that you are providing these days. Please know that these bundles are being bought by people’s sweat to expire without being used. Just address the problem, thank you.</blockquote>
The above sentiments were echoed by Tatenda Chipepwe who tweeted claiming to be a loyal customer. <a href="https://twitter.com/ChipepweTatenda/status/1365006388917895169" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Read the tweet:</a>
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<div><a data-focusable="true" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/econet_support" role="link">@econet</a><a data-focusable="true" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/econet_support" role="link">_support</a> econet we really trust and support your services but, I really get disappointed at times when we buy our bundles and that is where your network starts behaving in a manner that is not friendly unto us “CUSTOMERS” </div>
<div>PLEASE HELP US WE ARE PROUDLY BUDDIE USERS.</div>
</blockquote>
</div>
</div>
<div>Responding to some of the complaints, Econet Customer Care @econet_support, urged the grieved to message them their issues. Read one of the responses:</div>
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<div dir="auto" lang="en">Hi <a data-focusable="true" dir="ltr" href="https://twitter.com/ChipepweTatenda" role="link">@ChipepweTatenda</a>, thank you for supporting Econet Wireless. If you are still facing network challenges, kindly DM your number, address, let us know how long you have had the challenge and if you have electricity during the time. ^GFK</div>
</blockquote>
<div dir="auto" lang="en">Some customers however claimed that even when they report their issues as instructed, they were not getting the assistance they expected. One customer said:</div>
<blockquote>
<div dir="auto" lang="en">So you just advise me to DM the details and then ignore. I desperately need to use my number pliz.</div>
</blockquote>
<div dir="auto" lang="en">Econet would “sincerely apologise for the delayed response” and urge customers to “please visit your nearest Econet shop in possession of your identity card so that a complete registration can be completed on the sim card.” </div>
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<div>Econet Wireless is the biggest Mobile Network Operator (MNO) in the country and at one point, <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/whatsapp-bundles-compared-netone-econet-and-telecel/">other network providers</a> begrudged the telecoms company for its stable and strong internet.</div>
<div>Sadly, the MNO has of late been a shadow of its former self as it has constantly struggled to ensure a stable and dependable network.</div>
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Zimbabweans Disappointed Over Econet's "Poor Services"

Google’s parent company Alphabet yesterday announced that it has tapped the Econet Group as its partner to launch a new high-speed broadband technology which uses laser beams instead of fibre optic cables.
The new technology can be deployed to connect two points that are 20km apart in a matter of hours, instead of about two weeks of digging to lay fibre cables.
It can currently deliver up to 10Gbits of Internet capacity at the ‘speed of light’ capable of streaming high-quality video.
It is ideal for connecting small towns, mines and large businesses. It can also be used to connect areas that are unsafe to lay fibre cables.
News of the partnership between Google and Econet, reported by Techcrunch.com and several tech news outlets, represents a massive opportunity for Econet, which has set up a new company based in Nairobi Kenya to roll out a supporting network to Liquid Telecom’s fibre optic network business across Africa.
Liquid Telcom is part of the Econet Group and has the largest fibre network across Africa.
The new technology was developed by a company in Alphabet’s stable called X, and it looks at finding new high tech solutions known as “Moon Shots”.
More: <a href="https://techcrunch.com/2020/11/10/alphabets-x-partners-with-econet-group-to-roll-out-project-taara-wireless-light-beam-broadband-in-africa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TechCrunch</a>

Econet Partners Google To Roll Out High-Speed Broadband Technology

Econet Wireless has announced that there shall be a system maintenance exercise from Saturday to Sunday which will affect access to some of the mobile operator’s services. We present Econet’s notice in full below.
<blockquote>Customer Notice Planned System Maintenance
Dear Valued Customer.
Please be advised that we will be carrying out a planned maintenance on the EcoCash system from 11pm on Saturday the 7th of November 2020 to 6am on Sunday the 8th of November 2020. During this period customers will not be able to access the following services: 1 All Banking Services (Bank to Wallet 8 Wallet to Bank) 2 All incoming and outgoing ZimSwitch transactions.
All other EcoCash Services will be available and working normally during this period. We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.
Live Life the EcoCash Way!</blockquote>

Econet Announces Planned System Maintenance

Zimbabwe’s second-largest mobile network operator, NetOne, has issued an apology over the network service disruption that customers experienced for the better part of Monday.
Netone subscribers faced a network blackout around midday yesterday, failing to access social media platforms and connect to the internet.
The government-owned mobile network operator issued an apology in a statement informing subscribers that normal service had been restored. Read the statement posted on the telecoms giant’s social media platforms:
<blockquote>NetOne would like to apologise for intermittent data service experience on our network yesterday. Please note that normal service has been restored.
Inconveniences caused are sincerely regretted.</blockquote>
The issue came barely days after Econet Wireless, the biggest mobile network operator in the country experienced related problems.
Econet’s subscribers on Friday last week faced challenges and disruption in making calls, checking balances, accessing EcoCash, as the service provider was facing “a technical challenge.”
Only recently, TelOne had similar challenges.
This has an adverse effect on many companies and individuals who are now working from home in a bid to curb the spread and transmission of the coronavirus pandemic.

NetOne Apologises For Network Problems Subscribers Encountered On Monday

Econet Wireless Zimbabwe has acknowledged that it has been experiencing issues which are affecting voice calls on its network.
In a statement, the biggest mobile operator in Zimbabwe said efforts were underway to resolve the issues. Reads the statement:
PUBLIC NOTICE
<blockquote>Dear Valued Customer
We regret to inform you that we are currently experiencing a technical challenge that has affected some voice calls. As a result, some of our customers are failing to initiate calls. However, services such as data, SMS and EcoCash are working well.
Our technical teams are working to resolve the issue and we will inform you once it has been resolved. 
We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused.
Econet Wireless 
inspired to change your world 
ECONET
<img alt="" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-175419" decoding="async" height="251" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" src="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/econet-network-300x251.jpg" srcset="https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/econet-network-300x251.jpg 300w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/econet-network-1024x858.jpg 1024w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/econet-network-768x644.jpg 768w, https://news.pindula.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/econet-network.jpg 1080w" width="300"/></blockquote>

Econet Acknowledges Network Challenges

Zimbabwe’s biggest telecommunications company, Econet Wireless has challenged the search and seizure warrant issued by a Magistrate against the company last week.
The warrant accused the Strive Masiyiwa-owned company of Money-Laundering and it gave the police authority to search and seize documents showing subscriber details.
In the urgent chamber application filed through lawyer Mkhululi Nyoni of Mawere Sibanda Commercial lawyers, Econet said the warrant is illegal and would breach customer confidentiality. Read the court papers in part:
<blockquote>The warrant of search and seizure is unlawful and constitutes a violation of the applicant’s right to privacy of the applicant’s subscribers. The warrant of search and seizure is also so widely and generally couched that it is susceptible to being set aside.
There can be no doubt that individuals and society suffer at the hands of criminals. But there can also be no doubt that in the absence of a system of limits which limits state power by protecting substantive rights like the rights to privacy and the rights to dignity, individuals and society will suffer at the hands of the state and its officials.</blockquote>
The company also claims that the warrant is intended to “destroy Econet and remove it from its market leadership position to the benefit of another operator.”
More: <a href="https://newzwire.live/econet-appeals-against-ridiculous-warrant-on-ecocash-claims-theres-a-plot-to-destroy-company/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">NewzWire</a>

Econet Challenges Search And Seizure Warrant, Says It's A Breach Of Customer Confidentiality

Last Friday UNICEF, ZiFM Stereo and Econet wireless launched the Internet of Good Things (IoGT) in a virtual live show, The Herald reports. The virtual show featured Jah Prayzah, Gemma Griffiths, Tamy Moyo, Long John, Nutty O and Asaph and it was streamed live on Econet and UNICEF Facebook Pages.
UNICEF in a statement about the event said:
<blockquote>While Zimbabwe has high mobile penetration, access to data is a challenge for many. The impacts on all people, particularly women and children across Zimbabwe from the rapidly escalating global COVID-19 pandemic are unprecedented and far reaching, and access to factual information is vita</blockquote>
The (IoGT) initiative according to the publication will see:
<blockquote>The IoGT features mobile-packaged content from UNICEF and partners designed to make life-saving and life-improving information available for free, even on low-end devices and basic web-enabled mobile phones.</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/internet-of-good-things-iogt-virtually-launched/">The Herald </a>

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