Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma in Nyamandlovu
THE Minister of Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Tatenda Mavetera, yesterday commended the significant strides made in modernising the country’s postal and courier sector, saying it is now better aligned with rapid technological advancements.
She made the remarks when she presided over the country’s belated World Post Day celebrations that drew hundreds of people in Nyamandlovu, Umguza District, Matabeleland North Province.
Minister Mavetera said the postal and courier sector continues to grow to cover other essential sectors.
“The postal and courier sector has evolved considerably. It is no longer solely about delivering letters and parcels — it has become a critical enabler of e-commerce, financial inclusion, logistics and digital connectivity.
“The innovations we celebrate today show how a traditional institution like Zimpost can adapt and transform to meet the demands of the digital era, remaining relevant to citizens across the nation,” she said.
Minister Mavetera took time alongside her deputy, Cde Dingumuzi Phuti, to launch the Zimpost Mobile Application and Chatbot, S’gijimi.
“This launch aligns with Zimpost’s vision: ‘Towards a Smart Post Office’, which emphasises innovation, service excellence, and customer-centricity, while contributing to Zimbabwe’s broader vision of a digitally empowered, inclusive, and prosperous society by 2030,” she said.
“Equally significant is the launch of the Zimpost Chatbot, S’gijimi, whose name means ‘messenger’ or ‘runner’ in Shona, the equivalent term is ‘Chikonzi’ while in isiNdebele it is ‘S’gijimi’, which embodies speed, reliability and accessibility.
“Like a traditional runner, it is always ready to serve citizens, guiding them through postal and courier services and providing information and support around the clock. S’gijimi is truly the digital face of Zimpost, demonstrating how technology can bring services closer to the people,” she said.
Minister Mavetera said these digital platforms are more than tools for convenience — they are drivers of national development.
“They support E-commerce expansion; youth entrepreneurship; financial inclusion; improved public service delivery; and job creation in the digital economy,” she said.
“By embracing innovation, Zimpost contributes directly to building a digitally empowered, inclusive, and prosperous Zimbabwe, bringing the country closer to the aspirations outlined in Vision 2030.
“The launch of the Zimpost Chatbot and Mobile Application represents a strategic leap forward, reflecting our commitment to innovation, service excellence, and citizen empowerment,” said the minister.
“It is with great pride that I declare the Zimpost Chatbot and Mobile Application officially launched. Let us continue to work together to ensure that innovation and technology drive national development and inclusive growth across Zimbabwe.”
She said the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is central to the future of postal and courier services.
“AI enables intelligent parcel tracking, automated logistics and routing, predictive delivery systems, improved customer service through chatbots, enhanced fraud detection and data-driven decision making.
“The Zimpost Chatbot we launched today is one of the first practical AI-enabled public service tools in Zimbabwe,” said Minister Mavetera.
“It shows how AI can enhance customer engagement, reduce queues, improve accuracy, and modernise service delivery.
Zimbabwe’s postal sector is, therefore, not just adapting to AI — it is integrating AI into its service delivery architecture, in line with the priorities of the National AI Strategy,” said Minister Mavetera.
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