Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
Young people should be given opportunities, access to technology and a supportive environment to develop innovative solutions that address local challenges and accelerate national development, Permanent Secretary for Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Dr Beullah Chirume has said.
Speaking in Harare at the recent launch of AfroFleet, a locally-developed digital logistics platform, Dr Chirume said the country’s young people remain an asset and should be empowered to become creators of solutions capable of transforming key sectors of the economy.
She said AfroFleet exemplified the practical implementation of the National ICT Policy, the National Development Strategy 2 and Vision 2030, through the development of home-grown digital solutions to local challenges.
The logistics sector has for years been characterised by fragmentation, manual processes and inefficiencies, making digital innovation critical to improving service delivery and competitiveness.
Platforms such as AfroFleet enhanced transparency, efficiency and convenience by connecting verified transporters and cargo owners in real time, she said.
Highlighting the importance of youth-driven innovation, Dr Chirume urged Government, industry and investors to work together in supporting emerging innovators.
“Africa is yours to conquer,” she told the AfroFleet team. The success of local innovations demonstrated that Zimbabwean talent could develop products capable of competing not only locally but across the African continent.
Dr Chirume positioned AfroFleet within the broader context of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics and automation.
