Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Harare- The inaugural Smart Zimbabwe Conference and Expo kicked off in Harare yesterday with an inspiring address from Hon. Dr. T. A. Mavetera, Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, who emphasized the pivotal role of technology in transforming Zimbabwe’s economic landscape. With the theme “Zimbabwe’s Smart Future: Harnessing Innovation for Economic Growth,” the event brought together key stakeholders dedicated to the nation’s digital advancement.
In her keynote speech, Dr. Mavetera Applauded President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa for his forward-thinking leadership, which aims to establish a Smart Zimbabwe by the year 2030.
“Digital technologies must go beyond the use of ICT for social media and entertainment, We must utilize the infrastructure my Government is putting in place to enhance service delivery in healthcare, education, and agriculture” stated President Mnangagwa,” as she noted
Underlining the significance of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Dr. Mavetera described it as the backbone of national development and a catalyst for economic growth.
“Through ICT, we unlock the potential of data, connectivity, and automation to elevate our country’s capabilities,” she asserted.
During the conference, the Minister introduced the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan, which was recently launched by President Mnangagwa. This initiative aims to create digitally enabled ecosystems in critical sectors including smart cities, agriculture, transport, health, and education. Each facet of the plan is designed to leverage technology for enhanced efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
Dr. Mavetera also highlighted the government’s commitment to improving connectivity, pointing out the recent authorization of low earth orbit satellite technology as a significant step forward in expanding internet access across the country.
“Connectivity is a crucial enabler for a Smart Zimbabwe” she noted
As Zimbabwe prepares to embrace a future shaped by technology, Dr. Mavetera urged all citizens to take part in this transformative journey.
“Together, and with ICT at our core, we will transform our nation into a beacon of innovation—a nation that every Zimbabwean can be proud to call home,” she concluded