NATO Deploys Ships to Protect Undersea Communication Cables; Zimbabwean Internet Service Providers Grappel With Similar Challenges
In Zimbabwe, the vandalism and theft of telecommunications infrastructure have caused significant financial losses for Internet Service Providers (ISPs), affecting their ability to deliver reliable service to customers. This issue, persistent for years, has resulted in substantial financial losses for companies like Econet, due to the theft of essential equipment such as diesel fuel and backup batteries from base stations.
To combat this problem, the Zimbabwean regulator is advocating for stiffer penalties for offenders and lobbying Parliament to enact laws enforcing mandatory jail terms for those convicted of vandalizing telecommunication equipment. This move aims to deter vandals and thieves, who seem unfazed by the financial consequences of their actions.
On the digital front, the focus is on strengthening cybersecurity. Measures include adopting multi-layered security strategies such as implementing Zero Trust access policies, using multi-factor authentication, continuous monitoring, and employing certified Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) frameworks that unify networking and security in a cloud-native, audited manner. Cyber threat intelligence also guides proactive defenses against malware, ransomware, and remote access trojans.
In addition to cybersecurity measures, traditional physical security measures are likely being implemented. These may include deploying surveillance cameras, perimeter fencing, alarm systems at telecom sites, law enforcement partnerships, and community awareness programs to reduce incidents of theft and vandalism.
Community support is considered crucial in safeguarding telecommunications infrastructure. ISPs emphasise that public awareness and involvement are key in preventing vandalism. TelOne, for instance, has reported annual revenue losses averaging US$1 million due to vandalism and the destruction of copper cables and other critical infrastructure.
The protection of telecommunications infrastructure in Zimbabwe aligns with the broader African region’s focus on combining advanced cybersecurity controls with traditional physical security to safeguard critical infrastructure from theft, vandalism, and sophisticated cyberattacks. This approach underscores the importance of a comprehensive strategy in securing Zimbabwe's digital future.
The Zimbabwean government, determined to protect critical infrastructure, is advocating for stricter penalties in the industry and aiming to enact laws that enforce mandatory jail terms for offenders who vandalize telecommunications equipment. Additionally, with cyber threats looming, data-and-cloud-computing technology is being utilized to combat these threats through the implementation of Zero Trust policies, multi-factor authentication, continuous monitoring, and the adoption of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) frameworks.
In the retail sector, community support is viewed as vital in safeguarding telecommunications infrastructure. ISPs such as TelOne have experienced significant financial losses, averaging US$1 million annually due to vandalism and infrastructure destruction, highlighting the importance of public awareness and involvement in preventing these incidents.
