By 
Zimbabwe mobile network operators will launch data sharing in April this year, to provide users with an option to share their data with other beneficiaries rather than forfeiting unused data due to interruptions from power cuts and poor network connectivity.
In a statement responding to the ICT Parliamentary Portfolio Committee, the Members of the Telecommunications Operators Association of Zimbabwe said mobile network operators had advanced plans to launch data sharing.
“Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) have advanced plans in place to launch this facility(data sharing) to mobile consumers particularly targeting those customers who have been unable to exhaust their data bundles due to interruptions stemming from such issues like power outages( load shedding and faults), travel or poor network connectivity,”
“This service will allow consumers to transfer the unused portion to beneficiaries who may then be able to exhaust these remaining balances, instead of these being expunged without recourse. We expect the first launch of this service to be in April 2023, once technical configurations are completed and product trials and communication to the public has been done,”
Network Operators added that data sharing will also address the roll over issue as customers will have the ability to exhaust data before the expiry date.
“Having addressed the issue of data sharing,we believe that it would substantially address the roll-over issues customers will be able to avoid the expiry of data before it is rolled over. Our investment focus is on providing a mechanism to ensure that customers can manage their usage to avoid expiry of data bundles in an environment where our capacity is to investment in software and upgrades is limited,
“However, we understand the frustration caused by power outages and inability of customers to use their data bundles, at times. In view of this we are working on systems and processes as well as packages that allow customers to opt for different packages with differing terms and conditions based on their usage patterns and preferences,” the statement read.
Essentially, this facility will allow consumers to get their full value of money, since they can bypass some interruptions which may result in relinquishing their data.
MNOs are still yet to release the terms and conditions of how data sharing is going to be rolled out amongst consumers.
Comments