eSIMs in Zimbabwe: What You Need to Know Right Now

Interest in eSIM technology is steadily growing in Zimbabwe. To separate fact from speculation, we decided to do a bit of research and here’s what currently applies in Zimbabwe.

How to Check If Your Phone Supports eSIM

The easiest way to confirm eSIM support is to dial:

*#06#

If your phone displays a number labeled EID, then your device supports eSIM functionality.

How to Get an eSIM in Zimbabwe

At present, eSIMs are issued in-store.

Both Econet and NetOne require customers to visit one of their retail outlets to get an eSIM, similar to registering or replacing a physical SIM card.

You will need:

  • A valid ID for verification

  • Your eSIM will then be issued as a QR code, which you scan on your phone to activate the line

While Econet does offer an online option, users who are new to eSIMs are generally better off visiting a shop where staff can assist with setup and activation.

How Many eSIMs Can One Phone Have?

This is one of the most misunderstood aspects of eSIMs.

There are two separate limits people often confuse:

  1. How many eSIMs a phone can store

  2. How many SIMs can be active at the same time

For example, many modern smartphones can store multiple eSIM profiles — often more than most users will ever need. However, the phone may only allow two active SIMs at a time, whether they are physical SIMs, eSIMs, or a combination of both.

This limitation is set by the phone manufacturer, not by Econet or NetOne.

Both networks have confirmed that they do not restrict customers to one or two eSIMs per device. As long as your phone supports storing multiple eSIM profiles, you can add more.

So claims that “Econet only allows two eSIMs” are usually due to misunderstanding how dual-SIM phones work.

Why Use an eSIM Instead of a Physical SIM?

There is no requirement to switch — for many users, a physical SIM still works perfectly well. However, eSIMs do offer some advantages:

  • You can store multiple SIM profiles (local networks, work numbers, roaming lines) without swapping cards

  • Useful for frequent travelers who want to avoid handling small physical SIMs

That said, eSIMs also have drawbacks.

Moving an eSIM to a new phone is more involved than simply inserting a physical SIM. In some cases — especially when switching between Android and iPhone — NetOne customers may need to visit a retail shop to transfer the eSIM.

What Happens If You Lose a Phone With an eSIM?

Losing a phone with an eSIM works much the same way as losing one with a physical SIM.

If your phone is lost or stolen:

  • Report the loss to Econet or NetOne

  • The network will deactivate the eSIM

  • After verification, you can be issued a replacement SIM or eSIM

Your mobile number is tied to you, not permanently to the device.

eSIMs are available in Zimbabwe today, but they’re still best suited for users who understand how their phones handle SIM profiles. For everyone else, physical SIM cards remain a reliable and simpler option.

As mobile technology evolves, understanding these differences helps you make informed choices — and avoid confusion caused by half-answers online.