POTRAZ Clarifies Data Rollover and Transfer Rules Amid Public Frustration Over Mobile Data Costs

POTRAZ says data rollover and transfer rules are governed by Regulatory Circular Number 2 of 2019.

Harare — The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) has clarified the country’s regulatory framework governing data rollover and data transfer, following renewed public interest and ongoing complaints over mobile data expiry and high costs.

Data rollover allows mobile subscribers to carry forward unused data from one billing cycle to the next, while data transfer enables users to share data with other subscribers on the same mobile network. Both features were introduced to curb the loss of unused data and strengthen consumer protection in Zimbabwe’s telecommunications sector.

In a statement, POTRAZ said the measures were formally established through Regulatory Circular Number 2 of 2019, which was issued in response to widespread consumer concerns about data bundles expiring before use. “Progress has been made on the implementation of the data rollover and transfer initiative,” POTRAZ said. “Members of the public are encouraged to take note of the existing regulatory measures aimed at enhancing consumer protection and to familiarise themselves with the conditions that apply to various data bundles.”

How Mobile Operators Apply Data Rollover

According to the regulator, mobile network operators (MNOs) have adopted different approaches in line with the regulations. These include:

• Full data rollover for selected bundles

• Data rollover in cases of network failure

• Data transfer options, allowing subscribers to send unused data to other users before bundle expiry

• Diversified bundle structures are designed to accommodate varying usage patterns

However, POTRAZ stressed that not all data bundles are subject to the same conditions, urging consumers to review bundle-specific terms and conditions before purchase.

Consumer Complaints Remain

The clarification comes amid persistent public dissatisfaction over high mobile data prices, premature data expiry, and what subscribers describe as inconsistent implementation of rollover and transfer features across different mobile networks.

POTRAZ said it remains committed to monitoring compliance and improving regulatory oversight. Consumers were encouraged to report challenges or provide feedback, which the authority said plays a critical role in strengthening enforcement and policy review. The regulator added that it will continue conducting public education campaigns to ensure subscribers fully understand their rights and the protections available under Zimbabwe’s telecommunications regulations.

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