Utande to Discontinue LTE and WiMAX Services by January 2026
Utande has announced that it will discontinue its LTE and WiMAX services effective 31 January 2026. The change follows adjustments in Zimbabwe’s telecommunications licensing and spectrum framework, which have influenced how wireless services are licensed and costed.
This update reflects a broader shift in Utande’s service focus rather than any issues with the performance or reliability of LTE or WiMAX technology.
Understanding the Regulatory Context
The decision is linked to Statutory Instrument 12 of 2021, officially titled the Postal and Telecommunications (Licensing, Registration and Certification) Regulations. These regulations introduced the Unified Telecommunications Licence, a structure designed to allow operators to offer multiple telecommunications services under a single licence.
As part of this framework, operators providing wireless services are required to hold a Radio Frequency Spectrum Licence in addition to their core operating licence. Certain spectrum bands used for LTE are classified as high-demand, which attracts higher annual spectrum usage fees.
While the regulation has been in place since 2021, its practical impact depends on the timing of licence renewals and migrations.
Why the Change Is Happening Now
Utande has explained that the timing of the LTE and WiMAX discontinuation is related to its licence migration process. As the company transitions from its previous Internet Access Provider (IAP) licence to the Unified Telecommunications Licence, the updated spectrum requirements come into effect.
Until migration or renewal was required, operators could continue operating under earlier licensing arrangements. As a result, the financial implications of the new framework are being felt more clearly now, in 2026.
After evaluating the updated cost structure, Utande determined that it would be more sustainable to focus resources on other connectivity solutions.
Utande’s Forward Strategy
Going forward, Utande will concentrate on fibre-based connectivity and satellite services, including enterprise satellite solutions. These technologies align with the company’s long-term strategy of delivering reliable, scalable internet services to businesses and households.
Utande has emphasized that the decision is strategic and economic, and not a reflection of the quality of LTE or WiMAX services, which have served customers well over the years.
What Customers Should Know
Utande had already stopped onboarding new LTE and WiMAX customers during 2025 in preparation for the transition.
While customer contracts do not automatically provide for equipment buy-backs, Utande has indicated that it will apply case-by-case discretion, particularly for customers who joined closer to the service wind-down period.
Customers using LTE or WiMAX services are encouraged to engage directly with Utande to discuss available alternatives and migration options.
Looking Ahead
Utande’s transition reflects how telecommunications providers continue to adapt to evolving regulatory and economic conditions while aligning their offerings with sustainable technologies.
As a long-standing connectivity provider in Zimbabwe, Utande remains committed to supporting digital access through fibre and satellite solutions, ensuring continuity of service for customers as the market evolves.