Tonderai Rutsito
The issue of establishing multiple gateways for internet access into the country has created a lot of debate in recent years. Those in support of the idea believe that it will assist in keeping the country connected in case of disruptions or downtime on any of the gateways. Those against this idea believe that having multiple gateways is a waste of resources which could be used elsewhere if all the internet service providers pool their resources to finance the establishment of a common gateway.

However, recent events have shown that having multiple gateways might be the way to go.
Last week connectivity was down on most gateways resulting in Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Online and Yo Africa failing to provide service resulting in a moment of national panic as some subscribers though that Zimbabwe’s internet access had been cut off.
Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Online and Yo Africa are connected to the liquid telecoms fibre.

Downtime on the Liquid fibre connection was caused by two incidents where developers in South Africa cut through two links on the connection within a few hours.

Liquid Telecoms managing director Mr Wellington Makamure said while the two incidents were odd and uncommon, they were mere accidents.
“There was a technical glitch which has since been restored, approximately four hours later.

“This was caused by a very awkward and unusual occurrence as we had two links going down separately, first it was the main link which was cut and we switched to the redundant link and then strangely enough a few hours later that link was also damaged by an ongoing construction taking place in Polokwane,” he said at the time.

Technology experts have indicated that the recent incident was a clear sign that the country needs multiple gateways.
“The Ministry of Information Communication Technology and Postal and Courier Services, which has come out strongly against multiple gateways should reconsider its position because of these recent event.

“While it is definitely a good move for Government to encourage players to share infrastructure, where possible, it would be regrettable if we entrust the running of critical data back bone of the nation to one company,” said one of the experts.

The writer is the editor for TechnoMag, Zimbabwe`s Premier Technology Magazine, more www.technom.ag/5n or join us on our facebook pagewww.facebook.com/technomagzw Email articles[at]technomag.co.zw tweet @TechnoMagZw

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