President Mnangagwa Meets Google VP James Manyika In New York

By Ross Moyo

Zimbabwe’s digital transformation agenda received attention at the highest level on Wednesday as President Emmerson Mnangagwa met Google Senior Vice President for Research, Technology and Society, James Manyika, in New York.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 81).

Also present were ICT, Postal and Courier Services Minister Hon Tatenda Mavetera and Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet Dr Martin Rushwaya.

The engagement reflects the growing importance of strategic partnerships, digital skills, artificial intelligence and innovation in shaping Zimbabwe’s future economy.

Discussions centred on Zimbabwe’s aspirations to advance its digital landscape and possible areas of cooperation with Google.

Sources close to the meeting said focus was placed on capacity building, digital skills development and how Zimbabwe can leverage Google platforms to accelerate its digital economy.

The meeting comes at a time when Zimbabwe is implementing its National AI Strategy, which was launched by President Mnangagwa in March this year. The six-pillar strategy seeks to transition the country from a resource-based to a knowledge-driven economy.

Zimbabwe is also pursuing the establishment of a Technology Park, for which land has already been secured. Government is exploring partnerships with global technology firms for its development.

Manyika, who is Zimbabwean-born, is one of the most senior African executives in global technology and oversees Google’s work on Technology and Society.

The meeting forms part of President Mnangagwa’s broader engagement on the sidelines of UNGA 81, where he is pitching Zimbabwe’s investment opportunities in the digital economy and other sectors.