Tinotenda Hove – State-owned mobile network operator NetOne Zimbabwe has removed on-peak and off-peak browsing limits from all its data bundles following mounting pressure from frustrated customers.

For years, subscribers had complained that large portions of their purchased data were effectively unusable because they could only be accessed during off-peak hours—often late at night when most users were asleep.

In a public notice issued on Tuesday, 17 March, the company confirmed the policy change and announced that all bundles will now be accessible at any time of the day.

“The on-peak and off-peak browsing on ALL bundles has been removed. To convert your airtime into a bundle of your choice, simply dial *379# and enjoy seamless connectivity on your terms,” NetOne said.

The decision comes after the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) raised concerns over the fairness of the system. In January 2026, CCZ Chief Executive Officer Rosemary Mpofu formally wrote to NetOne after receiving numerous complaints from subscribers.

“Charging consumers for data that is known in advance to be largely unusable by the average subscriber raises concerns about fairness, transparency, and value for money, and risks undermining consumer trust and confidence in the telecommunications sector,” Mpofu said.

Earlier attempts by the telecom operator to address the issue had fallen short. Last month, NetOne adjusted its off-peak browsing hours from 1 am–7 am to 10 pm–5 am, a move the company said was meant to improve access while refining its data products.

However, the revised time window failed to satisfy many customers, prompting the operator to take the more drastic step of completely eliminating on-peak and off-peak restrictions.

The latest move is expected to provide greater flexibility for NetOne subscribers, allowing them to use their data bundles freely without time-based limitations.