- Zimbabwe’s largest mobile network operator, Econet, is planning to develop an industrial park adjacent to Harare’s Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport.
- The project aims to integrate renewable energy, data capacity, and serviced industrial land to attract regional manufacturing and logistics tenants.
- Construction on the initial phase of the park has already commenced.
- Econet founder Strive Masiyiwa has approved the project as one of several new initiatives.
The ambitious industrial park development by Econet marks a significant private sector investment in Zimbabwe’s infrastructure. By bundling essential services like renewable energy and data, Econet aims to create a competitive hub for businesses looking to establish or expand their operations within the Southern African region. This strategic location near the country’s primary international airport is expected to enhance logistical efficiency and connectivity for prospective tenants.
The initiative also signals Econet’s broader restructuring efforts, which publicly introduced InfraCo in December. InfraCo, a long-standing unit managing the company’s passive infrastructure, including towers, fibre networks, power systems, and data facilities, will underpin the industrial park’s infrastructure. This separation allows for a focused approach to infrastructure development and service provision.
While specific cost estimates and a full construction timeline have not yet been released, the company anticipates that the project will become one of Zimbabwe’s largest private developments since independence, pending full development approvals. Engagement with government authorities is expected to formalize as planning progresses.
Timeline
- **Yesterday, January 5, 2026:** News breaks about Econet’s plans for the industrial park near Harare Airport.
- **Yesterday, January 5, 2026:** Construction on the first phase of the industrial park is confirmed to have started.
- **Yesterday, January 5, 2026:** Econet’s InfraCo, responsible for passive infrastructure, is noted as anchoring the industrial park development.
Key Players
- **Econet Wireless Zimbabwe:** The largest mobile network operator in Zimbabwe and the developer of the industrial park.
- **Strive Masiyiwa:** Founder of Econet, who approved the industrial park project.
- **InfraCo:** Econet’s infrastructure unit managing towers, fibre, power systems, and data facilities, anchoring the park.
- **Zimbabwean Government Authorities:** Expected to be formally engaged as the project planning advances and for development approvals.
