Lupane Set For Digital Boost as Fibre Optic Projects Nears Completion

Lupane District in Matabeleland North is on the verge of a major digital breakthrough, with fibre optic connectivity expected to reach the area by the end of the year.

The project, being spearheaded by TelOne, forms part of a nationwide programme to strengthen Zimbabwe’s digital infrastructure and connect remote areas to high-speed internet.

According to TelOne managing director, Engineer Lawrence Nkala, the company has already laid about 150 kilometres of fibre along the Bulawayo–Lupane route.

“We have now reached Lupane and plan to light up the district and surrounding communities soon,” Nkala said. “Our goal is to complete the remaining stretch to Victoria Falls as we mobilise more resources. This link is vital because it connects Bulawayo to the tourism capital and extends further into Zambia and Namibia. We are confident that by year-end, Lupane will be online.”

The Bulawayo, Lupane, Victoria Falls fibre link is part of a USD15 million investment, with more than USD3 million already used on trenching and cable laying. Once complete, the network will deliver internet speeds of up to 800 gigabits per second, among the highest in the country.

The initiative is expected to unlock new economic and social opportunities for the region, particularly in business, education, and communication.

“Fast and reliable internet will boost e-commerce and improve business efficiency. Transactions will be smoother, and network disruptions will be a thing of the past,” said one local resident.

Another community member added: “Access to affordable high-speed internet will transform education here. Learners will benefit from e-learning just like their counterparts in cities, and that could improve pass rates.”

The development also complements Zimbabwe’s recently launched National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026–2030), which aims to shift the country towards a knowledge-based economy, promote cultural values rooted in Unhu/Ubuntu, and use AI to bridge development gaps between urban and rural areas.

Once complete, the fibre project is expected to position Lupane as a key digital hub in Matabeleland North and further cement its role as the provincial capital.