NetOne Revises Off-Peak Data Hours, Launches Tourist SIM for Visitors

NetOne mobile network shop

Percy Nhara

Zimbabwe’s second-largest mobile network operator, NetOne, has revised its off-peak data hours and introduced a new Tourist SIM package aimed at improving connectivity for visitors entering the country.

Off-peak window adjusted

The state-owned operator has shifted its off-peak data window to run from 10 pm to 5 am, replacing the previous 1 am to 7 am schedule. The adjustment comes a month after the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) formally raised concerns following consumer complaints about the structure, pricing, and marketing of off-peak data bundles bundled into standard monthly packages.

In a letter dated 21 January 2026, CCZ Chief Executive Officer Rosemary Mpofu said the Council was troubled that subscribers were paying full price for data packages where a significant portion could only be accessed during off-peak hours, typically when many users are asleep or unable to utilise the service effectively. Mpofu noted that substantial volumes of paid-for data were expiring unused at the end of each billing cycle.

“Customer-first adjustment”

In a statement issued this week, NetOne said the revised off-peak period reflects changing usage patterns.

“This customer-first adjustment allows more Zimbabweans to take advantage of affordable internet for overnight downloads, updates and entertainment,” the company said.

The new 10 pm–5 am window is expected to benefit students, content creators, and households that schedule heavy data usage at night, particularly as demand for streaming, software updates, and other data-intensive services continues to grow. NetOne said the changes form part of ongoing refinements to its data products as it seeks to improve service delivery and respond to customer feedback.

Tourist SIM introduced

Alongside the off-peak adjustments, NetOne has introduced a Tourist SIM card targeted at short-term visitors. The SIM cards are being distributed free of charge at major ports of entry, including airports, and offer flexible bundles tailored to travellers’ needs.

According to the operator, the Tourist SIM remains active for up to 90 days, ensuring that visitors can access affordable connectivity immediately upon arrival in Zimbabwe. The move positions NetOne to tap into tourism traffic while also responding to domestic consumer concerns over data pricing and accessibility.

NetOne off-peak data hours