4.5.

5 Handover issues
Handover is critical issue in mobile cellular systems. As users move between cells, call or data
session continuity is very important. HO failures leads to subscriber frustrations as their call or
data sessions may be temporarily interrupted as they move between cells. As the systems evolve
from legacy systems to all IP networks intra and inter- system HOs became an issue due to
integration complications. Respondents were asked about noticeable changes in data and call
sessions when mobile and the responses are shown in Table 4.8 and Figure 4.7 The high
interruption rate in Table 4.8 is consistent with KPI data from the MNO which does not indicate
intra-system handovers. Users do not like their active data and voice sessions to be interrupted and
they perceive this as poor service from the service provider.

Table 4.8 Handover Issues

Questionnaires Call or data session No interruption Not sure
Issued interruption

Suburban(Gweru) 15 3 (20%) 9 (60%) 3 (20%)

MSU 20 15 (75%) 2 (10%) 3 (15%)

Mkoba 15 6 (40%) 6 (40%) 3 (20%)

Zvishavane 10 1 (10%) 3 (30%) 6 (60%)

Vendors(Gweru) 10 6 (60%) 3 (30%) 1 (10%)

Vendors(Harare) 10 7 (70%) 3 (30%) 0 (0%)

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