Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma,Zimpapers Reporter
The Ministry of Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services has moved to improve network efficiency at local authorities through a donation of 250 Starlink kits to the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works.
The donation, intended to benefit local authorities, comes after the ICT Ministry, in conjunction with Potraz, donated over 400 computers to the same institutions earlier this year.
Presenting the donation to Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe in Harare on Wednesday, ICT Minister Tatenda Mavetera said the initiative represents far more than just advanced technology but embodies their unwavering commitment under the visionary leadership of His Excellency President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, to ensure no Zimbabwean and no community is left behind in the digital age.
“It is a tangible step towards fulfilling the promise of a modern, connected, and efficient Zimbabwe. This initiative is a direct follow-up to the ICT equipment previously donated to our Local Authorities by my Ministry. It signifies the deepening of our crucial partnership – a partnership operating firmly within the whole-of-Government approach championed by President Mnangagwa.
“Our Ministries understand that seamless service delivery, effective governance, and national development hinge on breaking down silos and working collaboratively. Today’s handover is a powerful testament to that collaborative spirit in action,” said Minister Mavetera.
Minister Mavetera said there can deploy this cutting-edge Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology today only because of President Mnangagwa’s foresight and decisive leadership.
“His personal approval for the licensing of LEO Satellite Technology in Zimbabwe was a watershed moment. It unlocked the potential for truly universal connectivity, particularly for areas where terrestrial infrastructure remains a challenge. This licensing decision was visionary – it recognised that to leave no one behind, we must embrace the most innovative solutions available.
“Thanks to this approval, no Local Authority, regardless of how remote, will be excluded from the national connectivity matrix. The digital divide is being decisively bridged,” said Minister Mavetera.
She said her Ministry remains steadfast in its mission to drive Zimbabwe’s digital transformation.
“We will continue to actively support all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to embrace connectivity and harness the power of the digital age. We provide the enabling infrastructure, policy frameworks, and technical expertise necessary for MDAs to modernise their operations and better serve the people.
“Furthermore, our commitment extends beyond government offices. Under the banner of the Presidential Internet Scheme, we are actively rolling out free Wi-Fi hotspots across the nation. This initiative is bringing connectivity directly to ordinary citizens in public spaces – town centres, post offices, and community halls. I am pleased to report that provinces like Manicaland and Mashonaland East have already received and deployed kits, bringing free access to many. This rollout continues apace, ensuring citizens increasingly benefit from the digital dividend,” said Minister Mavetera.
“Honourable Minister of Local Government and Public Works, the successful deployment of these Starlink kits across our local authorities now rests significantly within your capable hands. I have every confidence that your Ministry and the local authorities will deploy this technology effectively and efficiently, maximising its impact for the benefit of all Zimbabweans,” said Minister Mavetera.
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