Online Reporter
Herald Correspondent
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa will this week launch the country’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026-2030) that is aimed at embedding AI across public institutions and key sectors of the economy to enhance efficiency and accelerate national development.
Speaking during the unveiling of the new Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe board in Harare yesterday, Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Dr Tatenda Mavetera said the strategy, which will be launched on Friday, will ensure that artificial intelligence becomes an integral part of Government processes and service delivery.
“We are happy to be launching our National Artificial Intelligence Strategy for 2026-2030 and this is going to make sure that as a Government we build artificial intelligence into our processes,” she said.
“Artificial intelligence is going to make our Government more efficient than it is now and we believe that we need to look at all sectors of the economy and find ways where we can enhance our operational efficiency.”
Minister Mavetera said the strategy is supported by a range of Government initiatives, including digital skills training programmes, infrastructure development and regulatory frameworks designed to prepare the country for the adoption of emerging technologies.
She emphasised that Zimbabwe’s approach to artificial intelligence would be guided by the country’s cultural values and ethical standards.
“We need to make sure that as much as we are enhancing technology, we embed our ethical considerations and cultural considerations as Zimbabweans”.
The strategy will also drive the rollout of e-Government programmes, modernising public administration and improving service delivery.
Minister Mavetera said the blueprint is anchored on three key strategic pillars: economic sovereignty, cultural and social determination, and inclusive and resilient development.
“This strategy is comprehensive and looks at how Zimbabwe can enhance national development by embedding artificial intelligence,” she said.
“We believe the National AI Strategy will leverage Zimbabwe to solve national challenges and bridge the digital divide between urban and rural communities.”
The Minister said the newly appointed diverse board comprising experts from different professional backgrounds has been assembled to guide the implementation of the strategy.
The board will be chaired by Professor Sam Takavarasha Jnr, who will be deputised by Ms Barbara Mukahanana, while the Ministry’s technical representative is Mr Prince Sibanda.
Other board members are Ms Tofara Audrey Nyoni, Miss Michelle Madyira, Adv Sebastian Masimba Guwuriro, Dr Siyakha Njabuliso Mthunzi, Dr Miriam Mugwati, Mr Caos Nzenze, Dr Maneta Linnys Dzauma and Dr Prince Mushaninga.
The newly appointed Potraz board chair said they will play a crucial part in technological developments, particularly in AI.
He said the emergence of artificial intelligence is transforming many sectors, especially telecommunications, where regulatory oversight is becoming increasingly important.
“When you look at AI, it has a wide-ranging reach and specifically in the telecommunications sector, you will find that there are key issues that have to do with governance, transparency and algorithm regulation. All these issues have to be regulated by a body such as Potraz,” he said.
