By Desire Tshuma
HARARE — The historic launch of the Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation’s Z+ Over-The-Top streaming platform at the Monomotapa Hotel on 9 July 2026 marked a new chapter for Zimbabwe’s media landscape. But behind the spotlight on ZBC was a quieter, yet critical partner NetOne, the state-owned telecommunications provider that made the digital service possible.
While ZBC led the development of the homegrown platform, NetOne provided the digital backbone the high-speed internet, extensive network coverage, and reliable data services that allow millions of Zimbabweans at home and in the diaspora to stream live television, listen to radio, and access on-demand content on any device.
“NetOne’s role is clear and deliberate. We are not building the application, we are building the roads on which digital services travel,” NetOne CEO Eñg Rafael Mushanawani said during the launch.
The company has invested heavily in expanding 4G LTE, rolling out 5G, and strengthening fibre infrastructure to ensure the Z+ platform is accessible in urban, rural and diaspora communities. It is also supporting the initiative with promotional and logistical assistance to broaden reach.
NetOne’s involvement in Z+ reflects a broader government strategy under the Second Republic, where state-owned enterprises collaborate to advance the National Development Strategy 2 and Vision 2030.
Group Chief Executive Officer, Engineer Raphael Mushanawani, said connectivity remains the foundation of the digital economy.
“While content may be king, connectivity is the kingdom upon which the digital economy is built. That philosophy guides every network expansion and every partnership we undertake,” Eng. Mushanawani said.
NetOne’s enabling role extends far beyond broadcasting.
In tourism, the company has partnered with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority to digitise inspection systems, expand connectivity at tourist sites, and integrate artificial intelligence. Tourism already contributes over 15% to national GDP, and smart connectivity is key to growing it further.
In youth empowerment, NetOne is working with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training to bridge the digital skills gap for more than 5.4 million young Zimbabweans, helping turn job seekers into job creators.
Its Digital Schools Connect programme is equipping rural schools with ICT laboratories and internet access to support universal digital literacy. Through OneMoney, NetOne is also extending financial services to unbanked communities, advancing economic inclusion.
The company says Environmental, Social and Governance principles are central to its operations. NetOne deploys IoT-enabled sensors to monitor and protect Zimbabwe’s wetlands, and leads nationwide clean-up campaigns in support of President Mnangagwa’s call for a clean and dignified nation. It also provides connectivity for healthcare and disaster relief efforts.
Officials say the Z+ launch demonstrates what is possible when institutions align around national priorities. NetOne did not build the platform, but its infrastructure ensures ZBC’s innovation reaches students, farmers, families and professionals across the country.
“As we enter our fourth decade, our focus remains on deepening digital transformation and ensuring the digital economy leaves no place and no one behind,” Eng. Mushanawani said.
“The first thirty years were about connecting Zimbabwe. The next thirty will be about empowering Zimbabwe to thrive in the digital age.”
The Ministry of Information said similar partnerships will be critical as government accelerates digital services across education, health, agriculture and governance.