Potraz vows to ensure AI does not weaken humanity

THE country’s telecommunications regulatory authority Potraz has vowed to put in place measures which will ensure that Artificial Intelligence (AI) does not weakens humanity.

The remarks were made by Potraz director general Dr Gift Machengete last Friday at the Girls in ICT event where he was represented by Potraz deputy director general Mr Alfred Marisa.

The event was held under the theme, “AI for Development: Girls Shaping the Digital Future”.

Dr Machengete said the regulatory authority with continue working with various stakeholders to eliminate online abuse.

“As the regulatory authority, Potraz firmly believes that digital tools must not only be accessible, but also safe, ethical and empowering for every child.

“We will therefore continue working hand in hand with Government, operators, civil society, educators and the international community to promote a more inclusive digital transformation while preventing and eliminating online abuse and gender-based violence,” he said.

Dr Machengete said the theme is both timely and important as it reminds the nation that as technology advances, they must ensure that our girls are not merely spectators of the AI revolution, but active participants and ethical leaders in shaping it.

“We do not want an AI future that weakens our humanity, destroys our culture, isolates our young people or replaces genuine human relationships with artificial ones. We do not want technology that erodes the values of family, respect, responsibility and community which define us as Africans.

“Instead, we want AI that uplifts humanity. We want AI that strengthens families and communities. We want AI that helps girls learn, innovate and become leaders. We want AI that protects children rather than exploiting them. We want AI for good — just as our theme says,” said Dr Machengete.

He said young girls should ensure artificial intelligence must never define their worth but there must define how artificial intelligence serves humanity.

“The future of AI should not merely be programmed by machines; it must be guided by human values, compassion, wisdom and integrity. Zimbabwe, Africa and indeed the world need your creativity, your intelligence and your leadership to ensure that technology remains a force for good.

“Despite the rapid advancement of technology across the world, many girls and young women continue to face barriers in accessing and meaningfully participating in the digital economy. Deeply rooted stereotypes, unequal access to digital tools, limited opportunities and online safety concerns continue to discourage many girls from fully embracing ICTs and pursuing careers in technology-related fields.

“Recent findings by UN Women reveal that women and girls continue to use the Internet less than boys and men. Studies further show that girls often access digital technology at a later age than boys, and that their use of technology is frequently more restricted by parents and guardians. These inequalities not only limit opportunities for girls today, but also risk excluding them from the industries and innovations that will define the future,” said Dr Machengete.

Dr Machengete said it is against this background that initiatives such as Girls in ICT Day become critically important.

“They are not merely commemorative events, but deliberate interventions meant to inspire, empower and open doors for girls to participate fully in the digital revolution — not as passive consumers of technology, but as creators, innovators and leaders.

“At the same time, the findings remind us that increased digital access must go hand in hand with increased digital protection. As more children gain access to technology, they also become increasingly exposed to online risks. Our responsibility, therefore, is not only to connect children to the digital world, but also to equip them with the knowledge, values and safeguards needed to navigate that world safely and responsibly,” said Dr Machengete.

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