Gaborone, Mascom Wireless is proud to announce the successful completion of the Universal Access and Service Fund (UASF) Highways Project, a first-of-its-kind national connectivity initiative that has delivered 2G and 4G mobile coverage across Botswana’s major trade and tourism corridors. This landmark development represents the largest single highway network expansion ever undertaken under the UASF in Botswana, with 60 base stations/towers providing coverage to more than 2200 kilometres to close long-standing connectivity gaps along critical highways.
For the first time in Botswana’s history, mobile coverage has been activated along key national highways, connecting routes including Nata to Kazungula, Kasane to Ngoma, Francistown to Maun, Lephephe to Serowe through Letlhakane to Makalamabedi, Francistown to Letlhakane, Dibete to Martins Drift, and Martins Drift through Selibe Phikwe to Serule. This unprecedented expansion ensures that millions of road users, from truck drivers and farmers to tourists and local communities, can now travel, trade, and communicate with ease and confidence.
Speaking on the milestone, Mascom Chief Executive Officer, Dzene Mkhwade-Seboni, said: “This project demonstrates Mascom’s commitment to connecting people everywhere and enabling socio-economic growth. By ensuring that no road user is left behind, we are not only enhancing safety and convenience for travellers, but also unlocking opportunities for businesses, farmers, and the tourism sector.”
The project was strategically designed to cover the nation’s busiest economic corridors, which serve as lifelines for mining operations, agriculture, tourism, and cross-border trade in the SADC region. The completion of these sites means improved access to mobile money, real-time business communications, and faster emergency response along highways that were once underserved.
Acknowledging the collaboration that made this achievement possible, a representative from the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) commended Mascom for its leadership and technical expertise, adding that the project sets a benchmark for universal access initiatives and highlights Botswana’s commitment to inclusive digital development
The UASF Highways Project also speaks directly to the national agenda of building a knowledge-based economy and supporting digital inclusion. By extending reliable connectivity to rural and remote areas, Mascom is helping ensure that all Batswana have the opportunity to participate in the digital economy.
This achievement solidifies Mascom’s deep commitment to expanding its network reach, fostering digital inclusivity, and pursuing continuous network improvements. We remain dedicated to investing in our infrastructure to provide superior service quality and connect even more communities across Botswana.
With this milestone, Mascom reinforces its role as Botswana’s leading network provider, committed to empowering people, driving economic growth, and connecting journeys across the nation. From highways to heartlands, Mascom is powering Botswana’s connected future.
