Zimbabwe’s Minister Mavetera elected Chairperson of African ICT Ministers’ Council

By Ross Moyo

Still basking in the glory of being voted most improved Ministry for her exemplary service against the accountability framework introduced by President Mnangagwa in 2021 through performance contracts, Hon. Tatenda Annastancia Mavetera, Zimbabwe’s Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, has been elected Chairperson of the Council of Ministers in charge of ICT (CMICT).

The election took place during the Eighth Session of CMICT on March 24, 2026.

Smart Africa’s Director General/CEO, Lacina Koné, congratulated Minister Mavetera in a letter dated March 27, 2026.

“Your election is an important moment for the Alliance, moving from vision to delivery”, wrote Koné.

The appointment reflects Zimbabwe’s growing role in shaping Africa’s digital agenda.

Côte d’Ivoire was designated Vice‑Chairperson, signaling a strong African digital partnership.

Smart Africa will support Minister Mavetera in advancing digital priorities and strengthening Member State coordination.

The focus will be on accelerating shared priorities and translating ambition into tangible impact for citizens and entrepreneurs.

Koné expressed readiness to work closely with Mavetera in a pragmatic, results‑driven manner.

The appointment positions CMICT as a driving force for Africa’s digital transformation.

CMICT stands for *Council of Ministers in charge of ICT*, an African intergovernmental body that brings together ministers responsible for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) from member states.

The CMICT’s main functions are:

*Setting regional ICT policy direction* – guiding Africa’s digital agenda and priorities.

*Coordinating ICT initiatives* – harmonizing digital projects and strategies among member states.

*Promoting digital transformation* – driving innovation, infrastructure development, and access to ICT services to boost economic growth, entrepreneurship, and citizen empowerment.

*Strengthening partnerships* – fostering collaboration between governments, private sector, and organizations like Smart Africa to advance shared digital goals and deliver tangible benefits to communities.

As its biggest Continental boss, Zimbabwe’s Minister Mavetera in essence, will chair CMICT working to unify Africa’s ICT efforts, accelerate digital development, and turn policy ambitions into real impact for citizens and businesses across the continent.