Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Online Reporter
IN a landmark move towards leveraging the transformative potential of the digital era for sustainable and inclusive growth, the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services convened the inaugural Consultative Workshop on Thursday to develop the Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence Strategy.
The event attended by various players in the ICT sector was held at a local hotel in Kadoma.
Officiating at the event, ICT permanent secretary Dr Beulah Chirume said such an occasion marks a significant step towards adapting to the technological advancements.
“We stand at the cusp of a technological revolution unlike any other. We are living in an era of unprecedented technological change. The Fourth Industrial Revolution is not a distant future; it is here, and Artificial Intelligence is its driving force.
“AI is no longer a concept confined to the pages of science fiction; it is rapidly reshaping economies, societies, and governance structures across the globe. Its potential to drive efficiency, innovation, and solutions to complex challenges, from climate-smart agriculture and precision healthcare to optimized public service delivery and enhanced national security, is undeniable,” said Dr Chirume.
She said for Zimbabwe, this is a moment of both challenge and immense opportunity.
“We stand at a critical juncture where the decisions we make today will determine our nation’s trajectory in the digital age. The development of a comprehensive and forward-looking National AI Strategy following the successful launch of the Zimbabwe AI-RAM report is not just a matter of keeping pace with the rest of the world; it is about strategically leveraging AI to achieve our national development goals and build a prosperous, inclusive, and technologically advanced Zimbabwe,” said Dr Chirume.
She noted that Zimbabwe, under the guidance of President Mnangagwa and through the framework of National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), now NDS2, Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Masterplan, and Vision 2030, is committed to embracing technological advancement as a cornerstone of our economic transformation.
“We recognize that AI presents a unique opportunity not merely to catch up, but to strategically position ourselves to leapfrog certain developmental stages. We meet at a transformative juncture where Zimbabwe’s economic outlook is promising, with a projected 6.2% GDP growth in 2025, anchored by key infrastructure investments and successful reforms,” she said.
Dr Chirume said it is now the time to position artificial intelligence as a lever for inclusive growth, national competitiveness and sustainable development.
“Our vision is clear, to harness the power of AI to solve our most pressing challenges and unlock new avenues for economic growth. This strategy is not about creating AI for the sake of technology; it is about using AI to improve the lives of our citizens.
“It is about using AI to enhance agricultural productivity, to provide better healthcare services, to create smarter infrastructure, and to empower our youth with the skills of the future,” she said.
Dr Chirume said the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan laid the foundation for a digitally empowered society.
“Today, with over 90 percent mobile penetration and significant internet connectivity advances, we are strategically positioned to build a thriving AI ecosystem. Our regional integration under SADC and COMESA, including the 2024 Tripartite Free Trade Area, unlocks access to a continental market of over 640 million people. We must now transition from being consumers of AI to becoming developers and exporters of context-relevant AI solutions.”
Dr Chirume said there are acutely aware that this journey is fraught with challenges.
“An AI strategy developed in isolation, without broad input and foresight, risks exacerbating inequalities or failing to address our specific national context and priorities. This is precisely why we are gathered here today; this workshop marks the beginning of a crucial national dialogue.
“The purpose of this consultation is to gather your insights, expertise, and perspectives. We are here to listen. We want to understand your concerns and your aspirations. We want to work together to co-create a strategy that is not only technologically sound but also culturally relevant and socially responsible,” said Dr Chirume.
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