Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
EFFICIENT transport networks, modern digital infrastructure, reliable meteorological services and emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence are no longer optional, but essential enablers of sustainable development and economic competitiveness, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona has said.
He made the remarks at the Sadc high-level ministerial round table dialogue in Bulawayo this Thursday, being held under the theme, “Liberalised Skies and AI-Enabled Climate Resilient Infrastructure to Accelerate Regional Integration and Sustainable Development in Sadc”.
It was also attended by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda, his deputy Dr Omphile Marupi, the ministry’s permanent secretary Mr Nick Mangwana, Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Dr Evelyn Ndlovu, Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services permanent secretary Dr Beaullar Chirume and senior government officials.
The Ministerial Meeting marks the culmination of a three-day intensive deliberations by senior officials, who reviewed progress on regional programmes, considered policy proposals, and developed recommendations aimed at advancing regional integration, connectivity, information dissemination, digital transformation, and meteorological services across the SADC region.
In his speech, Minister Mhona said, “This dialogue came at a critical moment for our region. As SADC pursues deeper regional integration, we must strengthen the systems that connect our economies, our people and our markets.
“Efficient transport networks, modern digital infrastructure, reliable meteorological services and emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence are no longer optional—they are essential enablers of sustainable development and economic competitiveness.
“Today’s discussions provide us with an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM), a flagship initiative that has the potential to transform aviation across Africa.”
He said that through the liberalisation of air services, they can improve connectivity, facilitate trade and tourism, reduce the cost of travel and create new opportunities for investment and growth.
“I am encouraged by the progress already being made across the continent. Zimbabwe remains committed to this vision through the implementation of SAATM principles, continued investment in aviation infrastructure and support for initiatives that promote seamless regional connectivity.
However, much more remains to be done. We must continue working together to remove barriers that limit the movement of people, goods and services across our region.
“Equally important is our collective response to the growing impact of climate change,” he said.
“The increasing frequency of extreme weather events demands that we build infrastructure that is resilient, adaptive and future-ready.”
By harnessing Artificial Intelligence, digital technologies and advanced meteorological systems, we can improve forecasting, strengthen disaster preparedness and enhance the safety and efficiency of our transport networks
The minister said it was important that they used this platform to exchange ideas, share experiences and develop practical solutions that will advance regional integration and improve the lives of their citizens.
