Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe Zimpapers Business Hub
Zimbabwe has consolidated its leadership in digital transformation following the appointment of Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Dr Tatenda Mavetera to the newly established Africa Artificial Intelligence (AI) Council under the Smart Africa initiative.
The development places Zimbabwe among a select group of seven ICT Ministers entrusted with shaping Africa’s artificial intelligence future, underscoring the country’s growing influence in continental digital policy formulation.
Announcing the milestone, the Ministry of Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services said the appointment was a significant recognition of Zimbabwe’s policy readiness and commitment to innovation.
“Zimbabwe has consolidated its leadership in digital transformation following the appointment of Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Hon. Tatenda Mavetera to the newly established Africa Artificial Intelligence (AI) Council under the Smart Africa initiative,” the ministry said in a post on its official X account.
The ministry said the Council was constituted at the highest level of continental leadership.
“The Africa AI Council was constituted by the Smart Africa Board chaired by Rwandan President H.E. Paul Kagame, and brings together African Heads of State and Government, senior African Union officials, the Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), and key private-sector and development partners.
“The Council will guide Africa’s approach to artificial intelligence governance, innovation and investment.”
Minister Mavetera’s inclusion on the Council elevates Zimbabwe’s standing in shaping strategic decisions on emerging technologies at continental level.
“Hon. Mavetera’s appointment places Zimbabwe among a select group of seven ICT Ministers entrusted with shaping Africa’s AI future. The Council will provide strategic direction on AI infrastructure, data governance, talent development, investment mobilisation, market development and ethical frameworks to ensure that artificial intelligence drives inclusive and sustainable development across the continent,” the ministry said.
The appointment, the ministry added, reflects Zimbabwe’s strong policy foundation under the Second Republic.
“The development reflects Zimbabwe’s strong policy preparedness under the leadership of H.E. President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. In November 2025, Cabinet approved the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, providing a clear national framework for the responsible adoption and regulation of AI technologies in support of economic growth, industrialisation and improved service delivery.”
Zimbabwe’s leadership role within Smart Africa has also been reinforced through its contributions to digital agriculture and agritech innovation.
“Zimbabwe has emerged as a continental leader in digital agriculture and agritech innovation within Smart Africa. Under President Mnangagwa’s leadership, Zimbabwe spearheaded and launched the Smart Africa Continental Agritech Blueprint, which outlines how digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, can be harnessed to boost agricultural productivity, enhance food security, strengthen climate resilience and uplift rural communities across Africa.”
The ministry said the Africa AI Council was established following a rigorous and competitive selection process.
“The Africa AI Council was established following an extensive selection process led by Smart Africa, the African Union Commission and the International Telecommunication Union, drawing over 400 applications from across government, academia, industry and civil society.”
Zimbabwe’s representation on the Council, the ministry said, strengthens the country’s voice in shaping Africa’s digital future and underscores its commitment to innovation-led growth, digital sovereignty and regional cooperation in line with Vision 2030.
