INNOVATIVE BUSINESS MODELS AND GOVERNANCE MECHANISMS IN BRIDGING THE RURAL DIGITAL DIVIDE: INSIGHTS FROM ZIMBABWE'S TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY

Abstract

Despite growing infrastructure, universal access to telecommunication services remains elusive in marginalized rural communities of many developing nations like Zimbabwe. This paper investigates innovative business models and multi-stakeholder governance systems in Zimbabwe's telecom industry supporting rural digital inclusion. Using an exploratory qualitative approach, it examines collaborations, policies, and outcomes related to bridging connectivity gaps grounded in accessibility, affordability, awareness, abilities, relevance, and trust. Key findings show infrastructure sharing reducing operator costs, satellite solutions holding promise and reforms improving universal service fund efficacy. Regionally harmonized policy frameworks, public-private partnerships, and early corporate ESG (environmental, social, and governance) adoption driving social objectives are also analysed. The study offers practical insights into balancing financial, institutional, and participative inputs through coordinated efforts spanning regulators, companies and rural communities to overcome access divides sustainably.