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By Ross Moyo
Zimbabwe is set to launch its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in early March 2026, a move expected to drive innovation, investment, and skills development in the ICT sector. Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Hon. Tatenda Anastacia Mavetera, announced this during the 2026 Postal and Telecommunications Stakeholders’ Engagement Meeting in Harare.
The strategy, aligned with the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and Vision 2030, aims to transform Zimbabwe into a knowledge-based, innovative, and digitally inclusive society. Mavetera emphasized that “the strategy’s success will be measured by its implementation, not just the launch event.”
The ICT sector has seen significant growth, with a 14.5% increase in investment and mobile penetration exceeding 103%. The government has launched initiatives such as the Presidential Internet Scheme and Telemedicine Project, and rolled out digital skills programs, including the Digital Skills Ambassadors Programme and the 1.5 Million Coders initiative.
Mavetera acknowledged challenges, including the “high cost of ICT services, infrastructure costs, and electronic waste management. The government is working to address these issues through policy reforms and partnerships with the private sector.”
The minister urged operators to reduce tariffs and improve service quality, emphasizing that affordability is key to driving digital inclusion and growth. The government is committed to creating a conducive environment for the ICT sector to thrive.
The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and private sector in driving Zimbabwe’s digital transformation. Mavetera called for practical action, shared accountability, and measurable outcomes in implementing the country’s digital agenda.
Zimbabwe’s digital economy has the potential to drive economic growth and improve the lives of citizens. With the right strategies and partnerships, the country can overcome challenges and achieve its Vision 2030 goals, ironically the direction the nation’s leaders have been fighting over in their own camp yet with one voice advocated for.
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