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Ivan Zhakata-Herald Correspondent
ZIMBABWE is set to have Internet access at village level by 2030 through the extension of the fibre optic backbone and last mile connectivity, Minister of State for Harare Metropolitan Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Oliver Chidau has said.
Speaking during a tour of the TelOne Call Centre, Data Centre and National Operations Centre in Harare recently, Minister Chidau said the targeted Internet penetration rate by 2025 was 75,42 percent.
“Government has developed various strategies aimed at increasing ICTs’ usage, increasing investment in the sector, increasing compliance with ICT regulations and increasing customer satisfaction and protection in the use of ICTs, among others,” said Minister Chidau.
“As we strive for a digital economy, Government, businesses and more people go online thus increasing the need for data centres. The tour of the National Operations Centre was also quite informative as we are advised that the Centre serves to enhance cyber security as it monitors all gateways at all borders.”
Minister Chidau added that digital infrastructure was critical for the achievement of national development goals as espoused in the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).
“As you are probably aware, NDS1 is an economic blueprint that is expected to guide national development strategies and harmonise developmental efforts between 2021 and the year 2025.”
He said Harare Province, unlike other provinces, does not have access to agricultural and mineral resources that help anchor the economy, and will rely on its “many professionals” who provide goods and services to players in other industries.
Minister Chidau said the digital infrastructure provided by TelOne and other players in the ICT industry is a key enabler for various businesses and endeavours by people resident in the province.
“It creates and sustains employment within the Province. It is in light of this that we are truly proud of the world class service provided by TelOne which has truly distinguished itself in the ICT sector.”
The Minister pledged to support TelOne in their joint endeavour to continuously improve the ICT landscape across the country, adding that the NDS1 had various key ICT-related objectives and aspirations that citizens must work hard to achieve.
The tour was attended by Harare Provincial Development Coordinator Mr Tafadzwa Muguti, mayors from towns in Harare Metropolitan Province, their town clerks and councillors.
Online Reporter