adminAbigail Mawonde Herald Correspondent
Government, through the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), has responded swiftly to calls by the Muzarabani community for Internet connectivity to empower the farming community to research on critical issues about agriculture.
The Muzarabani Community Information Centre was officially opened by Information, Communication Technology and Cyber Security Minister Supa Mandiwanzira in May last year.
POTRAZ on Sunday handed over more computers and commissioned network connectivity for the community.
POTRAZ director general Dr Gift Muchengete has been on an aggressive drive to provide Information Communication Technology solutions to under serviced and marginalised communities.
The Muzarabani community applauded POTRAZ and Government for responding swiftly to their plea for Internet connectivity.
Ward 8 councillor Mr Norman Chizeya said: “We raised the issue on February 23 and I am impressed the response was swift. I thank you for supporting the vision of our President, Cde Mnangagwa.
“We had problems with the network, but now we are back on again. The Minister (Mandiwanzira) is supporting us as a community very well and we really appreciate.
“We had problems in the community of diseases that affected livestock and grain, but now we can research and find solutions to those challenges, thanks to such initiatives.”
Clr Chizeya pleaded with Government for connectivity of radio services since the community was missing out on up-to-date information on developments in the country due to poor connection.
Muzarabani North legislator Cde Alfred Mufunga thanked POTRAZ for effectively implementing its mandate by connecting his constituency to internet.
“We have no problems really and you have seen for yourselves the elderly here researching on projects and markets, something we did not have for 38 years,” he said.
“We need continuous support so that we remain informed, connected and educated through Internet connection.
“We appreciate this fulfilment by the Government and to Potraz we say please continue connecting our people around the country.”
Mr Stancelous Mugadza (72) said the information centre in Muzarabani was changing lives as farmers were researching on their farming activities.
“We have gathered knowledge on farming activities, timing of planting and also markets so that we gain from our activities,” he said. “I am impressed by the information I gather on what to farm and even the markets.”
Potraz director for postal services Mr Kennedy Dewera said the organisation valued access of ICTs by all.
“A fortnight ago, we received a report that the network at the community information centre was having challenges,” he said.
“Thank you councillor for alerting us. We are here to ensure there is network and the people are connected as this is part of our mandate.”
Potraz also commissioned internet connectivity and handed over laptops in Centenary where thousands of people attended a consumer awareness road show on Saturday.
Online Reporter