Zimbabwe is accelerating its digital transformation with the launch of the Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026–2030), as government investments in information and communication technology continue to expand nationwide connectivity.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa said the country is making significant progress in digital infrastructure development, which is strengthening Zimbabwe’s position in the global data and knowledge economy.
He made the remarks while delivering a keynote address at the official launch of the national AI strategy at the new Parliament Building in Mount Hampden.
Digital infrastructure expanding
The President said government investments in the ICT and telecommunications sectors are producing tangible results for communities across the country.
He noted that mobile service coverage and internet penetration have grown significantly in recent years, improving access to digital communication tools.
According to the President, increased connectivity is enabling more Zimbabweans to participate in the digital economy.
Improved internet access is also expected to create opportunities for innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence development.
Growing AI ecosystem
Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe is already seeing the emergence of locally developed AI solutions designed to address everyday challenges.
These include agricultural chatbots developed in local languages to assist farmers, machine-learning systems that predict commodity prices and computer vision tools that help detect crop diseases early.
He also highlighted the role of young technology entrepreneurs, researchers and academic institutions in building the country’s growing AI ecosystem.
Opportunities across sectors
Artificial intelligence is already contributing to innovation in several sectors, including financial technology, urban planning and energy management.
The President said AI-driven solutions are helping improve service delivery, automate processes and modernise infrastructure systems.
He urged the private sector to increase investment in artificial intelligence technologies and collaborate with start-ups to accelerate industrial modernisation.
Need for stronger digital protection
While promoting innovation, the government also emphasised the need to strengthen digital safety regulations.
Mnangagwa said legislation must be developed to protect children and minors from harmful content on digital platforms and social media.
He said Parliament and relevant government agencies must work together to ensure online safety measures are introduced quickly.
Vision for a digital Zimbabwe
The Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence Strategy aims to guide the country’s adoption of AI technologies over the next five years.
Launched under the theme “Harnessing AI for Inclusive Development”, the strategy seeks to accelerate economic growth, innovation and digital transformation.
Government officials say the policy will support the use of artificial intelligence in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, mining, finance and education.
The launch event was attended by Information Communication Technology Minister Tatenda Mavetera, United Nations Resident Coordinator Edward Kallon, cabinet ministers and leaders from Zimbabwe’s technology sector.
By The Granite Post Reporter
