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Zimbabwe marked a historic milestone in its journey toward a digital economy with the introduction of Sophia, the world-renowned humanoid robot, during the nation’s AI and Innovation Week. Sophia’s visit underscored Zimbabwe’s growing commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies to drive economic transformation and social progress.
Hon. Dr. Tatenda Mavetera, Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal, and Courier Services, highlighted the significance of this moment in her keynote address. “Sophia’s presence here is not just symbolic; it is a call to action for Zimbabwe to harness the power of artificial intelligence to redefine our future,” she said. The event’s theme, Building Digital Infrastructure: Enabling Innovation and Connectivity in Zimbabwe’s Digital Economy, reflected the government’s priorities in fostering a tech-driven ecosystem.
Sophia, a creation of Hanson Robotics, captivated audiences with her ability to hold intelligent conversations, showcasing the potential of AI in reshaping industries from education to healthcare. Her visit also served as an inspiration for local innovators and entrepreneurs, demonstrating what is achievable with bold investments in technology.
Minister Mavetera outlined several strides Zimbabwe has already made, including improved internet penetration, now at 78.55%, and mobile connectivity surpassing 96%. She emphasized the importance of expanding these achievements to rural areas and investing in robust infrastructure to support advanced technologies like AI, IoT, and big data.
The introduction of Sophia was just one highlight of the week, which also showcased local success stories such as the rise of digital platforms like Inn Bucks and Eco Farmer. These innovations demonstrate how a well-constructed digital ecosystem can empower communities and businesses alike.
“By building partnerships between government, industry, and academia, we can ensure that Zimbabwe becomes a leader in the digital economy,” Dr. Mavetera added. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to policies fostering innovation, such as the recently validated National Artificial Intelligence Policy Framework.
As Sophia’s visit came to a close, she left behind more than awe and curiosity; she inspired a renewed vision for a digitally advanced Zimbabwe. Through continued investment in AI and innovation, the nation aims to position itself as a hub for technology and entrepreneurship in Africa.
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