Econet Wireless has revived Technites, a platform connecting independent contractors with paid work.
Work will start with the installation of 20,000 cameras at EcoCash agent locations to meet Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe requirements. The project is expected to create jobs for technicians across the country.
The company has begun registering and training technicians for the project. Equipment has been secured, with installations expected to create work in both urban and rural areas. Former Econet senior executive Zac Wazara will lead Technites as a separate business in which he will be a shareholder.
Beyond the camera installations, Technites will provide solar panel installation, borehole repairs and WiFi connectivity services. Econet also plans to equip technicians with motorcycles to reach customers in remote areas. The contractors will take over solar and WiFi installations at schools and clinics previously handled directly by Econet.
Technites operates on a gig-economy model, with contractors working independently and using the platform to connect with customers, who can pay through EcoCash. Econet plans to expand registration to other skilled trades and approach large companies to identify additional work opportunities.
“We are eyeing people who have returned from South Africa, as we know many of them are skilled. All they need is support to get back on their feet,” said Econet Wireless Zimbabwe Group CEO Douglas Mboweni.
Mboweni said Econet also plans to work with the Government to train young people through the platform.
“Econet is a partner in development, and we always try to support the government in addressing economic challenges and so we are responding to its call.”
