The future of connectivity is here - and Pakistan is the next country to take part in the revolution.
World Mobile is officially deploying its decentralized network in Pakistan, replicating the success of Zanzibar with a rapid rollout that begins today. Four AirNodes are already live, marking the first phase of a fully commercial network that will expand in the coming weeks.
This isn’t just another network launch. This is a defining moment in our global expansion - the first major deployment outside of Africa and a key step toward delivering affordable, community-powered connectivity worldwide.
Why Pakistan? A Nation on the Edge of Digital Transformation
Pakistan is home to 220 million people, with one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Mobile connections have skyrocketed - from 10 million in 2005 to nearly 200 million today.
The country’s Vision 2025 plan is driving rapid economic growth, private sector innovation, and digital inclusion. As Pakistan moves toward its goal of becoming a leading global economy by 2047, connectivity will play a crucial role - and World Mobile is stepping in to accelerate the process.
The Real Connectivity Challenge in Pakistan
On paper, Pakistan looks well-connected - 90% of the population lives in areas with mobile broadband coverage. But coverage isn’t the issue. The real challenge is usage.
- 60% of the population isn’t using mobile internet, despite living in connected areas
- Affordability is the biggest barrier, particularly for low-income households
- Women are 38% less likely than men to access mobile internet, creating a massive gender gap in connectivity
Pakistan is actively working to close these gaps through initiatives like:
- Connected Pakistan: Accelerating Gender Inclusion in ICTs
- A memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the GSMA to close the digital gender divide
- A nationwide Digital Gender Inclusion Strategy
But to make digital inclusion a reality, the country needs a new model for connectivity - one that’s affordable, community - driven, and built to serve everyone, not just the privileged few.
A New Model for Connectivity and Economic Growth
World Mobile’s hybrid connectivity model does more than just bring people online. It creates new income opportunities.
- Low-cost connectivity means more people can afford mobile internet
- The sharing economy allows individuals to earn from network expansion
- AirNode hosts can generate sustainable income while helping bridge the digital divide
In Zanzibar, some top-earning AirNodes generate up to $80 per month for their hosts - a significant income boost in regions where the average monthly salary is around $150.
For potential AirNode Operators in Pakistan, this is more than connectivity - it’s an opportunity to join a decentralized telecom economy.
What’s Next for World Mobile in Pakistan?
The excitement is already building. With AirNodes live and expanding rapidly, World Mobile is moving fast to scale its commercial network.
This is a very important and strategic move for us. - Micky Watkins, World Mobile CEO
This is just the beginning.
As Pakistan continues its push toward economic inclusion and digital empowerment, World Mobile is here to accelerate the process - creating a network that serves the people, rewards the people, and belongs to the people.
The next phase of connectivity starts now. Pakistan is live. The revolution continues.