NetOne has officially launched a new base station in Matjinge, Bulilima District, in Matabeleland South Province as part of efforts to improve network coverage and connectivity in rural communities.

The new base station is expected to provide better mobile communication services to residents in Matjinge and surrounding areas, helping communities access reliable voice and internet services.

The development forms part of NetOne’s ongoing programme to bridge the digital divide by expanding telecommunications infrastructure to underserved areas across the country.

Improved connectivity will help support communication, business activities, education and access to digital services within the district.

The launch of the base station also reflects Zimbabwe’s broader push toward digital inclusion and increased access to modern technology in rural communities.

The 2026 Girls in ICT programme has officially started at National University of Science and Technology under the theme, “AI Development – Girls Shaping the Digital Future.”

The event brings together young girls from different schools and communities to encourage participation in information and communication technology, innovation and digital transformation.

Speaking during the launch, ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera said empowering girls in technology is important for building a smarter and more inclusive digital future for Zimbabwe.

“Empowering girls today means shaping a smarter, more inclusive digital future for Zimbabwe,” she said.

Minister Mavetera encouraged girls to take advantage of opportunities in the technology sector and actively participate in artificial intelligence and other digital innovations.

The programme aims to inspire more young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) while helping close the gender gap in the ICT industry.

The Girls in ICT initiative is part of ongoing efforts to promote digital inclusion and equip young people with skills needed for the country’s growing digital economy.

itai Mazire

Prevail International Group launched its Talk and Pay (TAP) Microfinance Company on Friday, donating two 30-tonne truck loads of rice and cooking oil to Zimbabwe’s Defence Forces during the ceremony.

The donation, handed over to Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri by Prevail Group chief executive Tendai Sithole, recognised the contribution of the uniformed forces to national stability, the company said.

Speaking at the launch, Muchinguri-Kashiri welcomed TAP’s focus on the security sector and rural communities, stating that the payroll-based loan facility aligns with the Second Republic’s commitment to safeguarding workers’ welfare.

“Your inclusion of our hard-working labour force in your customer segment is consistent with the Second Republic’s commitment in safeguarding the welfare and dignity of our labour force,” she said.

The minister also noted that security personnel are often excluded from mainstream financial products, and that TAP’s targeting of women-led businesses and rural entities supports national development policy.

“Studies consistently confirm that capital availed to women circulates faster in the local economy,” Muchinguri-Kashiri added. “When women are extended with loans, you are investing in the whole household, and also in the community as a whole.”

Prevail Group International Chairman Dr Paul Tungwarara said TAP was developed following President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s call to support rural business units. The microfinance scheme will offer low-cost, payroll-based loans, with priority for women-led and rural-based enterprises.

Distribution of the donated rice and cooking oil to defence forces units is expected to begin shortly.