Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo
[email protected]
ZIMBABWE has reaffirmed its commitment to regional integration and sustainable development through continued investment in transport infrastructure, digital transformation and meteorological services.
Speaking in her welcome remarks at the Southern African Development Community High-Level Ministerial Round Table Dialogue at the Zimbabwe International Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo on Thursday, Bulawayo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube, said the gathering of ministers responsible for transport, information and communication technologies (ICTs), information and meteorology underscored the region’s shared commitment to advancing integration, cooperation and socio-economic transformation.
She commended the SADC Secretariat for its continued support in driving the regional agenda and facilitating collaboration among member states.
Minister Ncube said transport, ICTs, information and meteorology were mutually reinforcing sectors that play a critical role in promoting trade, investment, connectivity, resilience and sustainable development across the region.
“The transport sector remains a cornerstone of SADC’s regional integration agenda as it connects people, markets and industries while facilitating the movement of goods and services across borders. Zimbabwe continues to prioritise transport infrastructure development as a catalyst for economic growth and regional connectivity,” said Minister Ncube.
She said among the flagship projects is the upgrading of the Beitbridge-Harare Road Corridor, a key segment of the North-South Corridor, and the modernisation of the Beitbridge Border Post, which has significantly improved the efficiency of cross-border trade.
She said work is also underway to upgrade the Chirundu and Forbes border posts, while collaboration with neighbouring countries is being strengthened to facilitate seamless trade and transport operations.
“Investments in airport infrastructure, including the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport and the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport, have enhanced Zimbabwe’s capacity to accommodate growing passenger and cargo traffic while improving regional and international connectivity.
“On the digital front, Zimbabwe has made significant progress in expanding digital infrastructure, improving connectivity and promoting e-government services,” said Minister Ncube.
She told delegates that the country continues to invest in broadband infrastructure, digital platforms and cybersecurity frameworks while supporting innovation, entrepreneurship and digital inclusion.
Zimbabwe also reaffirmed its support for the implementation of the SADC Digital Transformation Strategy and other regional initiatives aimed at fostering interoperability, expanding digital access and harnessing opportunities presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
In the area of meteorology, Minister Ncube said the country has strengthened weather observation systems, forecasting capabilities and early warning mechanisms to improve preparedness and response to climate-related hazards.
She said enhanced technological cooperation, data sharing and early warning systems would be critical in building resilient communities and economies as climate change continues to affect the region.
“Every road rehabilitated, digital platform established, information-sharing mechanism strengthened and weather monitoring system improved contributes to the broader vision of a more integrated, connected and resilient Southern Africa,” said Minister Ncube.
She said despite the progress made, member states still face challenges including ageing infrastructure, climate-induced disruptions, the digital divide, misinformation and the high cost of cross-border logistics.
Addressing these challenges, she said, requires coordinated regional responses, harmonised policies, stronger institutions and sustained investment.
“This meeting provides member states with an opportunity to strengthen transport corridors, accelerate digital transformation, enhance information cooperation, improve meteorological services and develop resilient infrastructure capable of supporting inclusive economic growth. Remain guided by the principles of solidarity, mutual benefit and shared prosperity in these deliberations,” said Minister Ncube.
