Econet AI launch aligns with NDS2

Ivan Zhakata

Herald Correspondent

INFORMATION Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera has said the launch of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe AI aligns with National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), as the Government moves to accelerate digital transformation and economic modernisation.

Speaking at the launch in Harare today, Minister Mavetera said the development dovetailed with the Government’s vision of building a digital economy and improving service delivery across key sectors.

“The launch of Econet AI is in line with the National Development Strategy 2 and our vision to build a prosperous, knowledge-driven upper-middle-income economy,” she said.

Minister Mavetera said the initiative also supported the Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026-2030) recently launched by President Mnangagwa and positions Zimbabwe to actively participate in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

“AI is no longer a concept of the future. It is already here and beginning to transform the way we work, live and do business,” she said.

Minister Mavetera said the Government would continue creating an enabling environment for innovation through supportive policies, sound regulatory frameworks and continued investment in digital infrastructure.

She commended Econet for investing in advanced AI infrastructure and said the development would enhance efficiency, reduce operational costs and improve competitiveness for both public and private institutions.

Econet deputy chief executive officer Mr Roy Chimanikire said the platform would unlock opportunities in sectors such as banking, mining, agriculture, healthcare and telecommunications.

“This is about building an ecosystem that allows Zimbabwe to move from being a consumer of technology to a producer and innovator,” he said.

Meanwhile, Cassava Technologies president and chief executive officer, Mr Hardy Pemhiwa, said the launch marked a structural shift in Zimbabwe’s technological capabilities.

“You no longer need to send your data outside the country to access AI power. It can now be done locally,” he said.

The launch is expected to boost Zimbabwe’s digitalisation drive and widen access to smart solutions for businesses, Government departments and citizens.