Econet Telecom Lesotho (Econet Lesotho), a prominent telecom service provider under the umbrella of Econet Wireless Group, a telecom behemoth controlled by Zimbabwe’s richest man Strive Masiyiwa, has unveiled fifth-generation (5G) mobile technology in Lesotho, solidifying its position as a telecom leader in the region. This comes as part of the company’s strategy to expand its footprint beyond its Zimbabwean roots.
With the latest development, Econet Lesotho has become the second mobile operator in the country to deploy 5G, marking a significant stride in Lesotho’s telecommunications sector. With 1.1 million internet subscribers in the country at the start of this year, representing a penetration rate of 47 percent, the introduction of 5G is poised to meet the escalating demand for high-speed connectivity more effectively.
Lesotho’s telecom landscape set for transformation as Econet unveils 5G technology
The deployment of 5G technology enables Econet Lesotho to offer its subscribers devices with enhanced features, including faster speeds and lower latency. This move is not only expected to attract new subscribers, but also to strengthen Econet’s position in Lesotho’s telecom market, particularly in the internet services sector.
The economic impact of this technological advancement is anticipated to be substantial, aligning with the Lesotho government’s digital transformation goals and contributing to the development of the nation’s technological infrastructure.
The 5G rollout is poised to unleash a wave of modern applications, including smart homes and buildings, smart cities, e-learning, e-government, e-commerce, 3D video, telemedicine, as well as virtual and augmented reality, streaming services, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT). This is expected to usher in a new era of connectivity, transforming the way individuals and businesses engage with technology.
Econet Wireless Group’s Pan-African Influence under Strive Masiyiwa
At the heart of Sub-Saharan Africa’s telecom landscape, Econet Wireless Group, a subsidiary of Econet Global, takes the lead under Masiyiwa. With a strong presence in Botswana, Burundi, Lesotho, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, the group continues to be a driving force in mobile and fixed wireless telephony, public payphones, Internet access, and payment solutions.
With Masiyiwa at the helm, Econet Wireless Group’s influence extends through its flagship unit, Econet Wireless Zimbabwe. Boasting an impressive customer base exceeding 16 million, Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Limited has played a pivotal role in economic growth, job creation, and national revenue through taxation and levies over its 25-year journey.
Econet Lesotho’s launch of 5G technology not only signifies a significant technological milestone for the country but also cements Econet Wireless Group’s commitment to shaping the telecommunications landscape across Sub-Saharan Africa. As Lesotho embraces the era of 5G connectivity, the nation is poised for transformative advancements in various sectors, fostering innovation and economic growth.
