Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local technology manufacturing following the launch of a Zimbabwe-assembled laptop by Avantis Technologies, in a move seen as a boost to the country’s industrialisation and digital transformation drive.
The locally-assembled Avantis Parote 1030i laptop was unveiled on Thursday night, marking a significant milestone in efforts to position Zimbabwe as a producer – rather than a consumer – of modern technologies.
Speaking at the launch, Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera said the development underlined Zimbabwe’s capacity to innovate and compete on the global stage.
“This is not merely the launch of a gadget. It is a demonstration of confidence in Zimbabwe,” said Minister Mavetera.
“It is a declaration that Zimbabweans are capable of building, innovating, assembling, manufacturing and competing on the global stage.”
Minister Mavetera said the initiative aligns with key Government frameworks, including the National ICT Policy, Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Masterplan, National Development Strategy 2 and the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy.
She noted that local assembly of ICT products would enhance digital inclusion, create jobs and strengthen the country’s industrial base.
“We cannot fully embrace e-government without adequate digital infrastructure. We cannot industrialise effectively without technology,” she said.
“And we certainly cannot participate meaningfully in the Fourth Industrial Revolution while remaining mere consumers of imported technologies.”
Minister Mavetera said Government would continue to create an enabling environment for investment and innovation through improving the ease of doing business, expanding digital infrastructure and supporting industrial growth.
She, however, urged local manufacturers to prioritise quality and competitiveness.
“Patriotism alone cannot sustain a technology brand. Quality must always remain paramount,” she said.
“It would be unfair to expect Zimbabweans to purchase inferior products merely in the name of supporting local industry.”
The minister also commended Avantis Technologies founder Mr Ari Goldstein for pursuing an ambitious vision to build a globally competitive African technology brand.
Secretary for the E-Government Technology Unit in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Tafara Matekaire, said innovation often stems from resilience and determination.
“You innovate when you look at the outliers rather than the confinements of the normal,” he said.
Mr Goldstein said the company, established in 2016, specialises in manufacturing laptops, tablets, desktops and television sets, and views the launch as a symbolic turning point.
“Today is more than just the launch of a product. Today is the launch of belief,” he said.
“A belief that Zimbabwe can build. A belief that Africa can innovate.”
He said the Avantis Parote 1030i was designed and assembled locally to meet international standards and would target regional markets including South Africa, Zambia, Nigeria, Kenya and Rwanda.
