Zambia has 4k Telecom towers, so why are networks still failing?

“Having a tower does not automatically mean having usable broadband, because a site can provide coverage while struggling to handle thousands of users at peak times, especially where the backhaul capacity is limited,” said Syanseke.

However, he identified power supply, extreme weather, and backhaul infrastructure as some of the major barriers that could affect the reliability of telecommunications services, particularly in rural areas where towers may depend on diesel generators and batteries during prolonged power outages.

“Power remains a major issue, while heavy rains can cut roads and damage fiber infrastructure, and microwave links can also experience capacity and reliability challenges, meaning that some towers may remain physically standing but still fail to provide reliable internet services,” said Syanseke.

The ISOC president has therefore called for stronger safeguards, including hybrid power systems using solar and batteries, all-weather access plans for towers in flood-prone areas, and greater protection of fiber infrastructure during road construction, while urging ZICTA to consider publishing a public dashboard showing the operational status of telecommunications towers across the country.

“Zambia needs to move beyond simply counting towers and focus on whether those towers are consistently on-air and capable of delivering reliable broadband, because citizens need connectivity that works when they need it, not just infrastructure that exists on paper,” he emphasized.

Article by Philip Sinkala