Online Reporter
Takudzwa Mangrozah-Herald Correspondent
ZIMBABWE is stepping up efforts to build a strong and secure digital economy through local and international partnerships, a Cabinet minister has said.
Speaking at the Tech Convergence Fora in Harare, Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera said the Government was working to ensure digital growth went hand in hand with the protection of national data and online systems.
She said Zimbabwe’s future depended on creating a safe and inclusive digital environment that supported both development and national security.
“As we digitalise, the safety of our data and the protection of our national information systems must come first. Our partnerships and policies must ensure that Zimbabwe is not only connected, but protected,” said the Minister.
She added that Zimbabwe continues to welcome partnerships that help the country build local skills and capacity in areas like cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure.
An embassy of Russia in Zimbabwe official, Ms Anastasia Belyaeva, stressed the importance of international collaboration, adding that cybersecurity is now a key part of national security and development.
She noted that Zimbabwe and Russia were among the first countries to sign the UN Convention Against Cybercrime in Hanover two weeks ago.
Ms Belyaeva outlined ongoing cooperation between the two countries on technology projects, including the National Educational Training Programme for Cyber Security Specialists.
The programme started in Harare in August, and enrolled 3 000 students with hopes to increase enrolment up to 10 000.
“They will become the new generation of defenders of cyberspace in Zimbabwe.”
The programme aims to establish a National Cyber Security Monitoring Centre to help assess and protect the country’s information systems.
“This initiative is not just an educational programme, but a strategic investment in the country’s digital sustainability, youth employment, and economic growth.”
Speaking at the same event, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Deputy Governor Dr Innocent Matshe said that digital transformation must include secure systems that protect people’s data and promote financial inclusion.
He said that one of the main challenges of Zimbabwe’s systems was that it was currently fragmented.
Dr Matshe said there was need for a connected system under a unified structure.
“Part of the problems that we face is the fragmentation of our systems. We are supposed to think in a way that is all-encompassing.”
Dr Matshe added that a proper digital stack, comprising an identity layer, a payments layer, and a services layer, will help improve data security and confidence in digital services.
“Once we have that digital stack, it’s easier to secure than when systems are fragmented. And what the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe is trying to do now is to make sure that happens,” he said.
He also emphasised the importance of data sovereignty and safe online behaviour.
The forum highlighted that Zimbabwe’s digital journey is being built through cooperation between the Government and international partners, financial institutions, and the private sector.
Together, they aim to make the country’s cyberspace safer, create jobs for young people, and ensure Zimbabwe remains in control of its digital future.
“This is not just about technology,” Minister Mavetera said. “It’s about protecting our nation, empowering our youth, and securing our digital future.”
