Online Reporter
President Mnangagwa will today officially open the 14th Zimbabwe International Research Symposium at the Harare International Conference Centre as Zimbabwe continues to strengthen its national research and innovation agenda.
Our Reporter Debra Matabvu and Photographer Believe Nyakudjara are at the Harare International Conference Centre and will be bringing live updates from the event.
The Research Council of Zimbabwe (RCZ) and Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) are hosting the symposium, which is expected to strengthen the country’s research ecosystem as Zimbabwe seeks to deepen the role of science, technology and innovation in national development.
President Mnangagwa is expected to tour various exhibitions before delivering his keynote address.
The symposium is running under the theme ‘Exploring the nexus between research, artificial intelligence, innovation and sustainable community development’.
The three-day event brings together local, regional and international researchers, policymakers, academia and development partners to promote innovation, collaboration and the commercialisation of research.
It highlights the Government’s continued drive to ensure that research translates into tangible socio-economic benefits for Zimbabwe.
The symposium programme includes research exhibitions, presentations and awards recognising outstanding researchers.
Live scenes from HICC
The tone is vibrant as President Mnangagwa is set to officially open the event, drawing attention to the growing momentum behind Zimbabwe’s research and innovation agenda.
Delegates and researchers from across the country are gathered in a lively atmosphere, moving between exhibition stands showcasing new ideas, projects, and innovations.
With meaningful conversations unfolding and researchers presenting their work, the symposium highlights the enthusiasm for collaboration and discovery. There is a shared focus on turning research into tangible solutions – especially through the theme exploring the nexus between research, artificial intelligence, innovation, and sustainable community development.
Research and innovation: The backbone of sustainable development
Zimbabwe is pushing research and innovation, which are crucial in national development as they turn ideas into practical solutions that address real challenges facing communities.
Through research, Zimbabwe generates evidence and new knowledge to guide better decisions in areas like health, agriculture, energy, education, and the environment.
Innovation then helps transform that knowledge into improved technologies, products, and services that boost productivity, create jobs, and strengthen local industries.
When research is supported and linked to implementation, it also builds national capacity and reduces dependence on imported solutions.
Ultimately, research and innovation help development become more sustainable, inclusive, and effective by ensuring that progress is grounded in what works and delivers tangible socio-economic benefits.
