Afghanistan, long affected by war, political instability, and poor infrastructure, is now witnessing notable development strides, especially in telecommunications. With improved security and reconstruction efforts underway, the expansion of telecom networks is opening access to education, commerce, healthcare, information, and government services.
Zabul province, a remote southern region, historically lacked telecommunication services in many districts and villages. Recent installation of new network towers has significantly improved coverage, earning public appreciation. Residents recall the hardship of climbing mountains for signals, a challenge now largely resolved by home connectivity.
Bismillah from Shahr-e-Safa district expressed gratitude for newly activated services, calling it a major change from their previous struggles. Similarly, Saifullah of Shinkay district highlighted the activation of two networks allowing calls and internet access at home, replacing the need to climb hills. In Qalat, the provincial capital, residents like Farid Ahmad also confirmed full operational networks replacing earlier difficulties.
Provincial officials report telecommunication services are now active in nearly all districts. Mawlavi Abdul Hadi Yahya, head of Telecommunications and IT in Zabul, noted that 11 new network sites were activated in just three months, with 27 additional towers under construction. The expansion aims to cover remaining underserved areas by year-end.
Despite this progress, other remote regions of Afghanistan still lack coverage, with residents appealing for expanded telecommunication access.