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Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) Director General Gift Kalisto Machengete has called for a collaborative approach in the implementation of Zimbabwe’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategy, stressing that the technology must serve the interests of all citizens.
Speaking on the need for an inclusive AI ecosystem, Machengete said academia, research experts, development partners and technical support institutions all have critical roles to play in shaping the country’s AI future.
“Academia, research experts, development partners and technical support institutions all have a role to play. We must come together to ensure that our AI strategy starts to gain traction in society and begins to make a meaningful impact,” he said
Potraz boss said stakeholders must work together to generate research based data, establish effective data collection mechanisms and provide the technical expertise needed to drive AI adoption and innovation.
Machengete also highlighted the importance of creating regulatory frameworks that will guide the responsible development and use of AI technologies in Zimbabwe.
He emphasized that AI initiatives should be people centred and designed to improve the lives of ordinary citizens rather than benefiting only a select few.
“The strategy is actually made for the people, not only for ourselves,” Machengete said.
His remarks come as Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to embrace emerging technologies and position itself within the global digital transformation agenda.
Stakeholders have increasingly identified AI as a key driver of innovation, economic growth and improved service delivery across various sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture and public administration.
Machengete’s call for collective action is expected to strengthen ongoing discussions around the development of a robust national AI framework capable of delivering tangible benefits to communities across the country.
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