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Mobile telecommunications provider NetOne has launched a reverse calling service, enabling customers to place calls even when their airtime balance is zero, with the person receiving the call covering the costs.

The upcoming service, named Pay for Me, aims to prevent any caller from being disconnected, especially in emergencies or urgent scenarios.

The new service tackles Zimbabwe’s economic issues, where numerous individuals find it difficult to keep consistent mobile access. By enabling a recipient to choose to cover the cost of incoming calls, NetOne guarantees that critical communications—such as family crises or employment prospects—can continue without interruption, making interaction both available and adaptable.

“The service allows customers without airtime to start a call by dialing *164* followed by the recipient’s number. The recipient is then asked if they want to accept the call and cover the cost,” NetOne stated.

If approved, the call continues and the recipient is billed at the regular out-of-bundle rate. If it’s rejected, neither party incurs any charges.

It exists because funds are limited but communication is crucial; we recognize the reality that emergencies, job prospects, or urgent family matters don’t wait for airtime.

Designed for regular users, the service proves beneficial for a student wanting to make a call home, a job applicant following up on a position, a supplier verifying a delivery, or a traveler in need of help. “The recipient always has control — they decide whether to accept and cover the cost of the call,” NetOne stated.

Speaking with , NetOne public relations manager Ernest Magadzire explained that there are no additional fees.

The recipient is charged only when they answer the call, and bundles remain unaffected. There are currently no rigid usage restrictions, provided the recipient maintains a positive balance.

The recipient is informed first and provided with a clear choice to either accept or decline the call. If the call is accepted, it is connected and the recipient is billed at the regular out-of-bundle rate.

“If turned down, the call concludes without any costs to either side, ensuring the service is straightforward, clear, and easy to use,” he stated.

Magadzire mentioned that customer responses have been largely favorable, with users valuing the ease of remaining connected during crises or significant events.

“Several people value the ease of contacting others during crises or significant events without any delay,” he mentioned.