Source: Zim unveils home‑grown National AI Strategy – herald
Nyore Madzianike
Senior Reporter
Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera has described Zimbabwe’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy as a home‑grown blueprint designed to accelerate inclusive economic growth in line with the country’s development agenda.
She said the strategy reflects Zimbabwe’s aspirations as it positions itself to harness emerging technologies under the national development framework.
The minister made the remarks at the launch of the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026–2030 by President Mnangagwa at the New Parliament Building yesterday.
“History shows that each generation adapts uniquely to technological changes. As Zimbabwe aims for Vision 2030, we are ready to engage with the global economy. The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026 to 2030 highlights our commitment to the Fourth Industrial Revolution and our progress towards a unified digital vision of Zimbabwe,” said Minister Mavetera.
She said the strategy had been developed through extensive consultations to ensure it reflects the country’s priorities and development aspirations.
“Your Excellency, our President, your guiding philosophy inspires us to embrace innovation while staying true to our values. Under your leadership, we are advancing towards Vision 2030. The strategy presented is thus uniquely Zimbabwean and aligned with Vision 2030 and our national priorities, with a focus on AI as a driver of inclusive growth, innovation and sovereignty,” she said.
Minister Mavetera explained that the strategy emerged from a comprehensive policy development process led by the Ministry of ICT, informed by the UNESCO AI Readiness Assessment for Zimbabwe and subsequent nationwide consultations.
She noted that stakeholders consulted during the process included farmers, healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, technopreneurs, educators and other national leaders, adding that such broad engagement was critical in shaping a strategy that reflects the needs of the nation.
“A successful AI strategy must reflect the nation’s needs and aspirations. The strategy presented is thus uniquely Zimbabwean and aligned with Vision 2030 and our national priorities, with a focus on AI as a driver of inclusive growth, innovation and sovereignty,” she reiterated.
Minister Mavetera said the strategy embraces the Education 5.0 philosophy and prioritises AI literacy and capability development from primary school through to university level.
“The key to successful AI development is a strong foundation in digital infrastructure, data governance, a skilled workforce, regulations and effective institutions,” she said.
She outlined that the strategy is structured around six key pillars: AI talent development; infrastructure and computational sovereignty; public sector transformation; governance and ethics; research and innovation; and international collaboration and diplomacy.
“A key aspect of our strategy is the commitment to inclusion and digital equity, focusing on women, youth, rural populations and people with disabilities in Zimbabwe’s digital landscape,” said Minister Mavetera.
She said the strategy also establishes governance structures to ensure effective implementation.
“These structures include the National Digital Regulatory Committee, the AI Strategy Implementation Office and technical working groups. We are very clear that these institutions will assist us in the implementation of this strategy,” she said.
Minister Mavetera also announced several initiatives that will be rolled out within the first 18 months of implementation.
“I am excited to announce five key initiatives to launch our national AI mission within the first 18 months, including the AI Grand Challenge, the National AI and Data Platform, the AI for Every Zimbabwe campaign, a National AI Regulatory Sandbox and the National AI Innovation Fund,” she said.
She acknowledged that implementing the strategy will require significant investment and collaboration among universities, the private sector, civil society, development partners and the Zimbabwean diaspora.
“The path ahead will be challenging, but with determination, collaboration, vision and leadership we are going to navigate all the obstacles. This strategy marks the start of our journey towards an innovative, inclusive and prosperous AI‑enabled Zimbabwe. Now is the time for action, and Zimbabwe is ready,” said Minister Mavetera.
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