Starting An Internet Cafe Business in Zimbabwe: The Complete Guide

The internet cafe business in Zimbabwe remains viable despite increased smartphone penetration. The demand for computer access, printing services, gaming, and professional internet connectivity continues to drive customers to well-equipped technology centres. With proper planning and diversified services, an internet cafe can generate steady monthly profits while serving essential community needs.

This comprehensive guide breaks down the complete business model, startup costs, operational requirements, supplier contacts, and realistic profit projections for a 15-computer internet cafe operation.

Quick Summary:

• Total Startup Investment: US$14,544
• Monthly Revenue: US$5,508
• Monthly Operating Costs: US$3,651
• Monthly Net Profit: US$1,857
• Annual Net Profit: US$22,284

Why the Internet Cafe Business Still Works

Despite the proliferation of smartphones, internet cafes remain relevant in Zimbabwe for several compelling reasons.

Computer Access Gap: Many Zimbabweans do not own personal computers. Students need computers for assignments, job seekers require them for CV preparation, and small business owners need access for document preparation and administrative tasks. Smartphones simply cannot replace computers for these productivity tasks.

Reliable Connectivity: Home internet remains expensive and often unreliable. An internet cafe provides guaranteed high-speed connectivity that many cannot afford or access at home. Business users and professionals particularly value this reliability.

Printing and Document Services: The need for physical documents persists. CVs, application forms, certificates, business documents, and academic papers all require printing. An internet cafe serves as a one-stop solution for document creation and printing.

Gaming Demand: Online gaming requires high-speed internet and powerful computers that most people cannot afford individually. Gaming cafes attract a dedicated customer base willing to pay premium rates for quality gaming experiences.

Professional Environment: Some customers need a quiet, professional space to work away from home distractions. Your cafe can serve as an affordable alternative to expensive co-working spaces.

Business Model and Service Offerings

The modern internet cafe operates as a multi-service technology hub rather than simply providing basic internet access. Diversification is essential for maximizing revenue and ensuring business sustainability.

Core Services

Internet Access (US$1 per hour) This remains your primary service. Customers use your computers and internet connection for browsing, research, social media, email, and general online activities. The US$1 per hour rate is competitive and accessible to most customers.

Computer Use for Document Preparation Many customers need computers specifically for creating documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Microsoft Office applications, PDF editing, and other productivity software are essential offerings.

Printing and Photocopying Services Document services generate steady daily revenue with healthy profit margins. Services include black and white printing, colour printing, photocopying, scanning, laminating, and binding.

Gaming Services Both online and offline gaming attract dedicated customers, particularly younger demographics. Gaming customers often spend extended hours and are willing to pay premium rates for quality equipment and fast internet.

Accessories Sales Selling computer and cellphone accessories provides high-margin retail opportunities. Items include chargers, cables, phone cases, USB flash drives, headphones, and other technology accessories that customers frequently need.

Laptop User Services (US$1 per hour) Many customers bring their own laptops and simply need reliable internet connectivity and a comfortable workspace. This service requires minimal resources while generating good revenue.

Target Market Segments

Students: Require computer access for assignments, research, printing, and group projects. They represent consistent daily traffic, particularly during school terms and examination periods.

Job Seekers: Need computers for CV preparation, job searching, online applications, and printing application documents. This segment values professional document services.

Small Business Owners: Require printing, scanning, document services, and occasional computer access for business administration. They often become regular customers with predictable needs.

Gamers: Seek high-speed internet and quality gaming experiences. They typically spend longer hours and are less price-sensitive than other customer segments.

Individuals Without Home Internet: Many people lack reliable home internet or computers. Your cafe provides essential connectivity for personal, educational, and business needs.

Tourists and Travelers: Need internet access for communication, bookings, and information. Locations near hotels, bus stations, and tourist areas capture this market.

Internet Service Provider Options

Choosing the right internet connection is critical for your business success. Reliability, speed, and cost all factor into this decision. For a 15-computer operation serving multiple simultaneous users, you need substantial bandwidth and redundancy.

Liquid Telecom Options

Package	Speed	Monthly Cost	Setup Cost
WibroniX Small Office	Up to 15Mbps unlimited	US$333	Outdoor unit US$225 (once-off)
FibroniX Small Office (Fibre)	Up to 50Mbps unlimited	US$311	Modem US$89 (once-off)
FibroniX Office (Fibre)	Up to 80Mbps unlimited	US$559	Modem US$89 (once-off)

Installation is free with Liquid Telecom. You only pay for equipment.

Telco Options (Fibre)

Package	Speed	Monthly Cost	Setup Cost
Fire Max Pro Office	Up to 55Mbps	US$135	Modem and installation ~US$150 (location dependent)
Ultra Max Pro Office	Up to 85Mbps	US$250	Modem and installation ~US$150 (location dependent)

TelOne Options

Package	Speed	Monthly Cost	Setup Cost
Fibre Speed 100	Up to 100Mbps unlimited	US$90	Modem US$100 + Installation US$30
LTE Blaze Unlimited	Up to 25Mbps	US$75	Indoor modem US$120 (once-off)

Utande Options (Fibre)

Package	Speed	Monthly Cost	Setup Cost
Business Basic	Up to 75Mbps unlimited	US$160	Installation inclusive of modem (location dependent)
Business Essential	Up to 100Mbps unlimited	US$250	Installation inclusive of modem (location dependent)

Starlink Options

Package	Speed	Monthly Cost	Equipment Cost
Residential Plan	Up to 300Mbps+ unlimited	US$50	Standard kit US$389 (once-off)
Residential Lite	Up to 100Mbps unlimited	US$30	Mini kit US$200 (once-off)

Important Note on Starlink: Starlink is currently out of capacity in Harare and Bulawayo for direct subscriptions. However, you can still access Starlink business packages through authorized resellers, as many of them have dedicated bandwidth allocations. Outside Harare and Bulawayo, Starlink remains an excellent option for high-speed connectivity.

Recommendation

Fibre connections offer the best performance and value for an internet cafe business. Always inquire about business packages as they provide better speeds and support more simultaneous connections than residential packages.

All plans are technically unlimited but include fair usage policies. Read the terms carefully to understand any throttling that may occur during peak usage.

Critical: Maintain a backup internet option to ensure continuous service. Internet downtime directly translates to lost revenue and frustrated customers. Our financial projections assume dual fibre connections for this reason.

Equipment Requirements and Startup Costs

For your 15-computer setup, refurbished equipment offers the most cost-effective entry point while providing reliable performance. This approach significantly reduces initial capital requirements without sacrificing functionality.

Computer Equipment (Refurbished Option)

Item	Specification	Unit Cost	Quantity	Total Cost
Desktop Computers	Refurbished Core i5, complete with mouse and keyboard	US$250	15	US$3,750
Monitors	21-inch displays, refurbished	US$50	15	US$750
Webcams	Standard USB webcams	US$10	15	US$150
Headphones	Over-ear headphones with microphone	US$15	15	US$225
Subtotal Computer Equipment				US$4,875

If finances allow, brand new complete desktop sets cost approximately US$700 each, requiring US$10,500 for 15 units. However, the refurbished option provides excellent value and reliability for startup operations. You can upgrade to newer equipment as the business generates profits.

Network and Power Equipment

Item	Description	Cost
Network Equipment	Router, switches, cables, and adapters	US$300
UPS Systems	Uninterruptible power supply units for all computers	US$500
Subtotal Network and Power		US$800

UPS systems are essential in Zimbabwe where power fluctuations and outages are common. They protect your equipment from damage and allow customers to save their work during brief outages.

Office Equipment and Furniture

Item	Description	Cost
All-in-One Printer/Copier	Commercial-grade multifunction device	US$1,200
CCTV Security System	Cameras and recording equipment	US$450
Backup Generator	5 KVA capacity	US$700
Air Conditioning	Cooling system for computer room	US$600
Furniture	Computer desks and chairs for 15 stations	US$2,000
Subtotal Office Equipment		US$4,950

A quality all-in-one printer is essential as printing services generate significant revenue. Invest in a commercial-grade device that can handle high volumes reliably.

Internet Setup

Item	Provider	Cost
Primary Connection	TelOne Fibre Speed 100 – Modem	US$100
Primary Connection	TelOne Fibre Speed 100 – Installation	US$30
Backup Connection	Liquid FibroniX Small Office – Modem	US$89
Backup Connection	Liquid FibroniX Small Office – Installation	Free
Subtotal Internet Setup		US$219

Premises and Working Capital

Item	Description	Cost
Premises Setup	Initial renovation and setup costs	US$500
Initial Inventory	Computer and cellphone accessories for resale	US$1,000
First Month Operations	Operating expenses reserve	US$1,200
Business Registration	Licenses, permits, and miscellaneous startup costs	US$1,000
Subtotal Premises and Working Capital		US$3,700

Complete Startup Investment Summary

Category	Amount
Computer Equipment (Refurbished)	US$4,875
Network and Power Equipment	US$800
Office Equipment and Furniture	US$4,950
Internet Setup (Dual Connections)	US$219
Premises and Working Capital	US$3,700
TOTAL STARTUP INVESTMENT	US$14,544

This investment provides a fully operational 15-computer internet cafe with redundant internet connectivity, backup power, security systems, and adequate working capital to cover initial operations.

Monthly Operational Costs

Understanding your ongoing costs is essential for pricing decisions and profitability management. Costs are divided into fixed costs that remain constant regardless of customer volume and variable costs that fluctuate with business activity.

Fixed Monthly Costs

Expense	Description	Monthly Cost
Rent	Prime location premises	US$750
Internet (Primary)	TelOne Fibre Speed 100	US$90
Internet (Backup)	Liquid FibroniX Small Office	US$311
Electricity	Power for computers, AC, lighting	US$150
Staff Salaries	2 attendants × US$250 each	US$500
Total Fixed Costs		US$1,801

We assume dual fibre connections for redundancy and optimal performance. This ensures continuous service even when one provider experiences outages. The combined bandwidth of approximately 150Mbps supports peak usage periods when all computers and customer laptops are simultaneously active.

Two staff members allow for shift coverage during operating hours and provide redundancy for sick days and leave. Staff should be trained in basic technical troubleshooting, customer service, and cash handling.

Variable Monthly Costs

Expense	Description	Monthly Cost
Printing Supplies	Bond paper, cartridges, toner	US$350
Maintenance and Repairs	Equipment upkeep and repairs	US$100
Accessories Inventory	Stock for resale	US$1,200
Marketing	Advertising and promotions	US$100
Other Expenses	Miscellaneous operational costs	US$100
Total Variable Costs		US$1,850

Printing supplies represent a significant variable cost but generate proportionally higher revenue. Track your printing volumes to optimize inventory levels and avoid stockouts.

The accessories inventory of US$1,200 monthly represents restocking costs to maintain adequate product selection. This investment generates US$1,800 in sales revenue, providing healthy margins.

Total Monthly Operating Costs

Category	Amount
Fixed Costs	US$1,801
Variable Costs	US$1,850
TOTAL MONTHLY COSTS	US$3,651

These costs reflect a comprehensive operation with dual internet redundancy, adequate staffing levels, backup power systems, and sufficient inventory for retail sales.

Revenue Projections

Revenue projections are based on realistic occupancy rates and service utilization for a well-managed internet cafe in a good location. We assume 9 operating hours per day and 26 working days per month.

Internet Access Revenue (Desktop Computers)

Your 15 computers will not be fully occupied at all times. Based on typical usage patterns, we project an average of 7 occupied computers per hour throughout the operating day.

Metric	Calculation	Amount
Average computers occupied per hour	Realistic estimate	7
Operating hours per day	Standard business hours	9
Computer hours per day	7 × 9	63 hours
Rate per hour	Standard pricing	US$1.00
Daily revenue	63 × US$1.00	US$63
Working days per month	Standard month	26
Monthly Computer Revenue	US$63 × 26	US$1,638

Laptop User Revenue

Many customers bring their own laptops and pay for internet access and workspace. We project an average of 5 laptop users per hour.

Metric	Calculation	Amount
Average laptop users per hour	Realistic estimate	5
Operating hours per day	Standard business hours	9
Laptop hours per day	5 × 9	45 hours
Rate per hour	Standard pricing	US$1.00
Daily revenue	45 × US$1.00	US$45
Working days per month	Standard month	26
Monthly Laptop Revenue	US$45 × 26	US$1,170

Printing and Document Services Revenue

Printing, photocopying, CV typing, scanning, and laminating services generate consistent revenue with good profit margins.

Metric	Amount
Monthly Gross Revenue	US$900
Monthly Supply Costs	US$350
Monthly Net Profit from Printing	US$550

This encompasses all document-related services from basic printing to professional document preparation. Pricing varies by service type, with colour printing and professional services commanding premium rates.

Accessories Sales Revenue

Computer and cellphone accessories provide high-margin retail opportunities.

Metric	Amount
Monthly Gross Revenue	US$1,800
Monthly Stock Costs	US$1,200
Monthly Net Profit from Accessories	US$600

Popular accessories include USB flash drives, phone chargers, charging cables, headphones, phone cases, screen protectors, and various adapters. These items have healthy profit margins and customers frequently need them.

Total Monthly Revenue

Revenue Stream	Monthly Amount
Computer Internet Access	US$1,638
Laptop User Access	US$1,170
Printing and Document Services	US$900
Accessories Sales	US$1,800
TOTAL MONTHLY REVENUE	US$5,508

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Profitability Analysis

Monthly Profit Calculation

Metric	Amount
Total Monthly Revenue	US$5,508
Total Monthly Operating Costs	US$3,651
NET MONTHLY PROFIT	US$1,857

Annual Financial Summary

Metric	Calculation	Amount
Annual Revenue	US$5,508 × 12	US$66,096
Annual Operating Costs	US$3,651 × 12	US$43,812
NET ANNUAL PROFIT		US$22,284

Return on Investment

With an initial investment of US$14,544 and annual profit of US$22,284, you can expect to recover your investment in approximately 8 months of operation. This represents an excellent return on investment for a small business venture.

Metric	Calculation	Result
Initial Investment		US$14,544
Annual Net Profit		US$22,284
Payback Period	US$14,544 ÷ US$1,857 per month	~7.8 months
Annual ROI	(US$22,284 ÷ US$14,544) × 100	153%

Revenue Enhancement Opportunities

While the projections above represent baseline operations, numerous opportunities exist to increase revenue and profitability.

Gaming Services

Gaming represents a significant revenue opportunity, particularly in areas with younger demographics.

Premium Gaming Stations: Dedicate several computers with enhanced specifications for gaming. These stations can command premium hourly rates of US$1.50 to US$2.00 per hour.

Gaming Tournaments: Organize regular gaming tournaments with entry fees. These events attract dedicated gamers and create community around your business.

Extended Hours: Gamers often prefer evening and weekend sessions. Consider extended operating hours to capture this market.

Training and Education

Your equipment and space can generate additional revenue through structured learning programs.

Basic Computer Training: Many adults need fundamental computer skills. Offer courses in typing, internet use, email, and basic applications.

Microsoft Office Training: Structured courses in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint appeal to job seekers and professionals.

Specialized Training: Advanced courses in topics like graphic design, web development, or digital marketing can command premium pricing.

Professional Services

Higher-value services target business customers willing to pay for quality.

Private Booths: Create enclosed or semi-private spaces for customers requiring confidentiality for video calls, sensitive work, or professional tasks.

Video Conferencing Facilities: Dedicated video conferencing setups appeal to businesses and professionals.

Professional Document Services: CV writing, business document preparation, and professional printing services command premium pricing.

Business Services

Leverage your infrastructure for additional business offerings.

Social Media Management: Offer social media management services for small businesses.

Graphic Design: Basic graphic design for flyers, posters, and social media content.

Computer Repair: Basic computer repair and maintenance services for customers.

Mobile Device Services: Phone screen replacement, software updates, and data recovery.

Internet Cafe Business Plan

An internet cafe business plan provides a clear structure for setting up, operating, and growing a technology-focused service business in Zimbabwe. It outlines your service mix, pricing model, target customers, startup investment, and expected financial performance. For a 15-computer internet cafe, the business plan helps you clearly map out the US$14,544 startup cost, projected monthly revenue of US$5,508, and expected net profit of US$1,857, allowing you to assess viability before committing capital.

From an operational standpoint, the business plan defines how the cafe will function on a daily basis. This includes decisions around internet service providers and redundancy, equipment specifications, staffing requirements, operating hours, pricing per service, and cash management procedures. It also addresses critical operational risks such as power outages, internet downtime, equipment failure, and security concerns, while outlining mitigation measures like backup internet connections, UPS systems, generators, CCTV surveillance, and clear staff roles and controls.

A well-prepared internet cafe business plan is also essential for securing external support and guiding long-term growth. Landlords, financiers, partners, and suppliers often require a structured plan before engaging with a new business. Even when self-funded, the plan acts as a performance management tool, helping you track actual results against projections, refine your service mix, introduce higher-margin offerings such as gaming or training, and plan future expansion into additional branches or upgraded technology services.

Location and Setup Considerations

Location significantly impacts your business success. The right location provides steady customer traffic, while a poor location struggles regardless of service quality.

Ideal Location Characteristics

High Foot Traffic: Areas near schools, universities, shopping centres, CBD areas, and transport hubs provide natural customer flow. Observe potential locations at different times to assess traffic patterns.

Target Market Proximity: Locate near your target customers. A location near a university attracts students, while a CBD location captures business users and job seekers.

Accessible Parking: Customers appreciate convenient parking, particularly those bringing laptops or collecting printed materials.

Good Security: Both real and perceived security matters. Customers must feel safe, particularly those working late or using valuable equipment.

Reliable Electricity: Some areas experience more frequent outages than others. Research the power stability of potential locations.

Ground Floor Access: Easy entry encourages walk-in traffic. Upper floor locations require stronger destination marketing.

Adequate Space: Plan for comfortable spacing between workstations. Cramped conditions discourage customers and create an unprofessional atmosphere.

Setup Considerations

Electrical Infrastructure: Ensure adequate electrical capacity for all computers, air conditioning, and equipment. Poor electrical infrastructure leads to tripped breakers and frustrated customers.

Cooling Requirements: Computers generate significant heat. Adequate air conditioning is essential for both equipment longevity and customer comfort.

Layout Efficiency: Design your layout for efficient customer flow, staff supervision, and equipment maintenance. Group gaming stations separately from work-focused areas if space permits.

Lighting: Good lighting reduces eye strain and creates a professional atmosphere. Avoid glare on monitors.

Noise Management: Consider acoustic treatment if you plan to offer gaming services alongside quiet work areas.

Risk Management and Challenges

Understanding potential risks allows you to develop mitigation strategies and contingency plans.

Security Risks

Equipment Theft: Computers and accessories represent valuable targets. Mitigation includes CCTV security cameras throughout the premises, alarm systems for after-hours protection, securing computer hardware with cable locks, staff training on security awareness, and insurance coverage for equipment.

User Misuse: Some customers may attempt illegal activities or access inappropriate content. Implement user monitoring software, clear acceptable use policies, and staff supervision.

Data Security: Customer data and your business data require protection. Implement proper backup systems, antivirus software, and secure configurations.

Technical Challenges

Equipment Failure: Computer and network failures disrupt service and frustrate customers. Maintain regular maintenance schedules, keep spare parts inventory for quick repairs, train staff on basic troubleshooting, and establish relationships with reliable technicians for complex issues.

Internet Downtime: Internet outages directly impact revenue. Our model includes dual internet connections specifically for redundancy. Ensure automatic failover between connections.

Power Outages: Zimbabwe experiences frequent power issues. UPS systems provide immediate backup, while a generator handles extended outages. Factor fuel costs into your planning.

Market Challenges

Competition: Other internet cafes, home internet growth, and mobile data all compete for customers. Focus on superior customer service, maintain modern equipment, offer competitive pricing, and develop loyalty programs for regular customers.

Technology Changes: The technology landscape evolves constantly. Stay current with equipment, services, and customer expectations. Budget for periodic equipment upgrades.

Economic Factors: Economic instability affects customer spending. Diversified services help weather economic fluctuations as different customer segments have different sensitivities.

Operational Risks

Staff Reliability: Your business depends on trustworthy, competent staff. Hire carefully, train thoroughly, and implement proper cash handling procedures.

Cash Management: Daily cash handling creates theft opportunities. Implement proper controls including daily reconciliation, limited cash access, and regular audits.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensure proper business registration, licenses, and compliance with telecommunications regulations.

Supplier Directory

Directory Disclaimer: The supplier contact details provided in this guide are for informational purposes only. ZimLedger does not have any affiliation with these suppliers, nor do we endorse or guarantee the quality, pricing, or reliability of their products and services. It is the responsibility of the reader to conduct due diligence before engaging with any supplier, including verifying their credentials, pricing, and compliance with relevant regulations.

Internet Service Providers

Liquid Telecom Address: 3rd Floor, Green Bridge, Eastgate, Harare Phone: +263 8677 123 123

TelOne Zimbabwe Address: 107 Union Ave, Harare Phone: +263 71 970 0951, +263 242 700 950

Telco Address: 475 Harare Drive, Pomona Industrial Phone: +263 713 875 148, +263 86 830 12345

Utande Address: 5th Floor, Pegasus House, 52-54 Samora Machel Ave, Harare Phone: +263 86 12 000 000 WhatsApp: +263 772 154 265

Starlink Resellers

Shona Prince Technologies Address: 14 Argyle Road, Avondale, Harare Phone: +263 773 963 626

TelOne Zimbabwe (Starlink Reseller) Address: 107 Union Ave, Harare Phone: +263 71 970 0951, +263 242 700 950

Dandemutande Address: 5th Floor, Pegasus House, 52-54 Samora Machel Ave, Harare Phone: +263 86 12 000 000 WhatsApp: +263 772 154 265

Frampol Address: 14 Glen Shee Avenue, Highlands, Harare Phone: +263 77 222 3501

Aura Address: 191 ED Mnangagwa Road, Chisipite, Harare Phone: +263 242 444 601

ZODSAT Address: 22 Van Praagh Avenue, Milton Park, Harare Phone: +263 24 2251 537, +263 24 2253 126

Computers and Equipment Suppliers

Fusertech Address: Shop No. 1 Regal Star House Mall, George Silundika Avenue, Harare Phone: +263 77 886 1299, +263 242 764 359, +263 242 537 59, +263 242 794 846

Fanoos Electronics Address: No 8 George Silundika Avenue, Harare Phone: +263 783 766 787, +263 242 753 560

Firstpack Services Address: 127 Masotscha Ndlovu Way, Cnr Seke Road, Hatfield, Harare Phone: +263 786 092 092, +263 8677 008 637, +263 731 140 536

Zelpac Computers Address: 1 Mallis Court, Glenroy Shopping Centre, Glenroy Crescent, Highlands, Harare Phone: +263 773 388 065, +263 242 443 121, +263 242 700 786

Bridge Telecoms Address: Shop 6 (Next to Nandos), Marimba Shops, Belvedere, Harare Phone: +263 71 974 8711, +263 71 974 8712, +263 71 974 8713

The Copier Parts Company Address: 118 Nelson Mandela Avenue, Between 5th & 6th Street, Harare P.O. Box A 1530, Avondale Phone: +263 78 879 1335, +263 242 794 990

Efficient Technology ZW Phone: +263 774 039 904

2Lan Desktop Computers Phone: +263 71 826 4187

Cyberfix Phone: +263 77 459 0142

TechFusion Phone: +263 77 493 5137