Makuti-Chirundu fibre link brings Sadc closer
GOVERNMENT has commissioned the US$1,5 million Makuti-Chirundu fibre optic link, positioning TelOne to be the carrier of other telecommunication networks and completing the laying of a telecommunications backbone that will facilitate interconnectivity within the Sadc region.
With technology and the digital platforms at the centre of business, governance and other socio-economic activities, a robust network would be key in integrating areas that were previously left out into the information superhighway.
The fibre link provides greater scope for introduction of cutting edge technology.
This comes a year after President Mnangagwa commissioned the Beitbridge-Masvingo optic link, priming the country to fully provide transit services for traffic to the rest of the world.
The link connects Zimbabwe to Zambia and beyond while the Beitbridge-Masvingo link completes the country’s connectivity with other countries in the region.
In his address at the commissioning of the link in Makuti, Information Communication Telecommunication, Postal and Courier Services Minister Jenfan Muswere said the development was part of the Government’s drive to modernise communication infrastructure.
“The Makuti-Chirundu fibre optic link is undoubtedly set to have a far-reaching impact towards the attainment of Vision 2030. We note with pride that the establishment of this fibre optic link has completed the connectivity of Zimbabwe with our neighbouring countries, specifically South Africa, Mozambique, Botswana and Zambia,” said Minister Muswere.
Establishment of the communication backbone provides transit services that would enable SADC member countries, starting from Angola, to connect to the whole world.
With the network, TelOne reinforces its position as a carrier of carriers in the telecommunications sector.
The project was completed using locally generated funds by TelOne and engagement of local labour, which saw 850 workers downstream being employed.
“This project is part of the Government’s effort to upgrade and modernise communications infrastructure thereby reducing the connectivity costs of both data and voice.
“The Government will now be able to provide its citizens with affordable internet and create business opportunities along the way,” said Minister Muswere.
He commended Zambia for allowing the laying of the optic fibre across the Chirundu Bridge, adding that technology was one of the key pillars in the attainment of Vision 2030.
TelOne managing director Mrs Chipo Mtasa said the Makuti-Chirundu link was part of projects under the Government’s second 100-Days cycle plan.
“The Makuti-Chirundu optic fibre link is set to solidify TelOne’s position as a reliable carrier-grade service provider to both local and international markets.
“The link also gives the company capacity to carry domestic traffic for all players in Zimbabwe and transit traffic across to Zambia and beyond. This presents an opportunity to generate foreign currency as we immediately commence offering cross-border connectivity,” she said.
Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs Minister Mary Mliswa-Chikoka said the fibre link was a milestone in the country’s quest for development.
“The potential in foreign currency earnings that this development brings about enhances our hope that we are getting our infrastructure right to deliver the economic transformation that we so look forward to,” she said.