Story by Gay Matambo
COMMUNITY leaders in Tshovani suburb, Chiredzi, have rolled out free public Wi-Fi zones across several wards, providing residents with reliable internet access and advancing digital inclusion in the high-density area.
The initiative is already reshaping daily life, with previously quiet open spaces near access points turning into informal study and research hubs, particularly for learners and young people.
Among the beneficiaries is Ms Vongai Mupinduri, who recently completed her O-Level studies. Coming from a resource-constrained background, she had limited access to online learning materials before the introduction of the free Wi-Fi.
“Having access to the internet made me pass my O-level examinations last year as I was able to research because at the moment most reading material is now found on the internet and not in books therefore it is important for learners to have access to the internet,” she said.
The Wi-Fi zones which are dotted across most wards in the high-density suburb are not just delivering data, but hope, opportunity and a digital lifeline to a community determined to connect itself to a brighter tomorrow.
“Purchasing data is expensive for most of us who live in the ghetto and this initiative has gone a long way in assisting our community and we are grateful,” a resident said.
“We have relatives and children who are out of the country and having internet connectivity close by helps us keep in touch with our families. We even bought our children gadgets so that they research their assignments,” another resident added.
The programme is in line with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s inclusive development agenda.
“As a PR councillor I decided to take it upon myself to set up these Wi-Fi zones in most of the wards in Tshovani. So far, I have set up 6 Wi-Fi zones in 6 wards, and we are planning to establish more. Other councillors are also doing the same in their wards, but my focus is the ghetto. The Wi-Fi zones are mostly benefitting learners who are taking advantage of this initiative to research their assignments.” Chiredzi Town Proportional Representative Councillor, Sekai Njanjure said.
“As Chiredzi town council we are also planning to establish ICT centres. We have one at Chitsanga Hall and residents are making use of it so this initiative that is being rolled out is a step in the right direction towards the establishment of many ICT centres. We have also partnered with IT personal who have made sure that these Wi-Fi zones are regulated and Noone gets access to harmful sites especially young people,” Chiredzi Town Council Vice Chairman, Liberty Macharaga stated.
The programme aligns with Government-led efforts to boost digital literacy and access, including the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan and the Zimbabwe Digital Skills Development Programme, which seek to ensure inclusive participation in the digital economy.
