Mozambique has launched a pilot programme for national roaming, allowing mobile users to connect to any available network when their primary operator’s signal is weak or unavailable.
The initiative, announced by the National Communications Institute of Mozambique, is aimed at expanding access to basic telecom services and reducing persistent coverage gaps, particularly in underserved rural areas.
The pilot phase will run until May 15 and is being tested across six locations in five provinces. It focuses on voice calls and SMS services, with authorities monitoring technical performance, service quality and interoperability between networks.
Under the system, subscribers of the country’s three main telecom operators — Tmcel, Vodacom Mozambique and Movitel — will be able to automatically switch to another provider’s network if their own signal is unavailable.
This seamless transition requires no action from users and is designed to ensure continuous connectivity, even in areas traditionally considered “white zones,” where coverage is limited or non-existent.
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“The main objective is to eliminate white zones and ensure better connectivity for more citizens across the national territory,” the regulator said.
Despite recent progress in expanding telecommunications infrastructure, coverage gaps remain a challenge in Mozambique. According to international data, 4G networks reached about 84 percent of the population in 2024, while 3G and 2G coverage stood at 86 percent and 88 percent respectively.
However, access to services remains uneven. Mobile penetration was estimated at just over 53 percent by the end of 2025, while internet usage lagged significantly at around 20 percent of the population.
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Authorities say national roaming could help bridge this gap by maximising the use of existing infrastructure, rather than requiring each operator to independently expand coverage in low-density or remote areas.
The pilot will also allow regulators and operators to assess technical challenges, including network compatibility, billing systems and service quality standards, ahead of a potential nationwide rollout.
Analysts say the initiative reflects a broader trend across Africa, where governments are increasingly promoting infrastructure sharing and regulatory reforms to accelerate digital inclusion and reduce costs.
If successful, national roaming could improve access to essential services such as emergency communications, mobile banking and digital platforms, particularly for communities in remote regions.
For Mozambique, the programme represents a step toward a more inclusive digital economy, although its long-term impact will depend on effective coordination between operators and sustained regulatory support.
