Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata-Herald Correspondent
Zimbabwe has launched the National Cybersecurity Training Programme, a major initiative aimed at training 10 000 youths in ethical hacking, cyber-attack simulations and cybersecurity fundamentals, as part of broader efforts to strengthen the country’s digital security and resilience.
The programme was launched in Harare yesterday by Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Tatenda Mavetera, who said the initiative is a key pillar of Zimbabwe’s cybersecurity strategy.
The strategy is anchored on the National ICT Policy, the Data Protection Act and the newly developed National Cybersecurity Strategy.
“We are happy to say we have come up with a cybersecurity strategy that outlines how we will deploy cyber security across the country,” said Minister Mavetera.
“This is underpinned by infrastructure, digital skills and ensuring safety in cyberspace and data protection.”
She said the initiative reflects Zimbabwe’s intent to build a safe and resilient digital environment that can support innovation and economic growth in the digital age.
Minister Mavetera also highlighted the role of international cooperation in building national cyber capacity, citing the 2023 Bilateral Cooperation Agreement between Zimbabwe and Russia as a foundation for progress in this area.
“This partnership proposes three key domains: building national cyber security capacity; establishing a cyber-resilience verification framework; and creating a national cyber security monitoring centre,” she said.
“Today we are launching stage one, which will train over 10 000 Zimbabwean youths through a world-class learning management system developed by CYBER-ED, with support from Redzone Digital Zimbabwe.”
Speaking at the launch, Russian Embassy Charge d’Affaires Mr Sergey Kuzin said the initiative demonstrates a shared commitment to a secure and inclusive digital future.
“The digital sphere must be governed by principles of fairness and equity,” he said.
“By equipping young people with cutting-edge cybersecurity skills, we are not only preparing them for the jobs of tomorrow, but also fostering a generation of innovators and problem-solvers who will safeguard digital infrastructure.”
Mr Dmitry Grigoriev, director of the KOMIB Partnership for International Information Security Coordination Centre, a Russian initiative aimed at enhancing international cybersecurity cooperation, stressed the need for collective action in combating cyber threats.
“No nation is immune to cyber intruders,” he said.
“We must invest in education, performance and innovative technologies to combat cybercrime effectively.
“International cooperation is essential as cyber threats often transcend borders.”
Mr Sergey Andreev, managing partner of the Cyberus Foundation, said Zimbabwe has the potential to become a global hub for cybersecurity talent.
“We see the huge lack of specialists worldwide,” he said.
“If Zimbabwe becomes the source of strong specialists, it has a huge potential for export.
“We decided to launch the selection of the first specialists who will form the core of Zimbabwe’s future cybersecurity industry.”
The programme is being supported by several global cybersecurity leaders including CYBERUS, KOMIB, Positive Technologies, CYBER-ED, and InnoStage.
It will also provide 160 regional scholarships and guaranteed job placements for top performers, positioning Zimbabwe as a potential cybersecurity education hub in Southern Africa.
