State-owned mobile network operator NetOne has announced that it is using artificial intelligence (AI) to strengthen its cybersecurity capabilities and protect critical telecommunications infrastructure from rising cyber threats.
Speaking at an ICT summit in Harare, NetOne Group Chief Executive Officer Raphael Mushanawani said AI has become an essential tool for safeguarding telecom networks, going beyond its traditional role in improving customer service and network efficiency.
According to Mushanawani, the company is using AI to detect unusual activity and respond to potential security threats before they can disrupt services.
“AI strengthens our cybersecurity, detecting anomalies and safeguarding critical infrastructure,” he said.
The announcement comes as governments and telecommunications companies across Africa face an increasing number of cyber attacks targeting essential digital infrastructure. As a result, many operators are investing in advanced technologies that can identify and address security risks more quickly and effectively.
With the rapid growth of digital payments, cloud services and online commerce, telecom providers now manage large amounts of personal, financial and business data. This has made them attractive targets for cybercriminals seeking to exploit vulnerabilities in critical systems.
The changing threat landscape has also shifted how companies view cybersecurity investment. Rather than treating AI as an emerging or experimental technology, many telecom operators now see it as a strategic necessity for protecting networks, maintaining customer trust and ensuring business continuity.
NetOne’s adoption of AI reflects a broader trend across Africa’s digital economy, where organisations are increasingly turning to intelligent technologies to strengthen resilience against cyber risks while supporting the continued expansion of digital services.
