Story by Chiedza Mutyavaviri
THE government has reaffirmed its commitment to balance innovation with governance, inclusion, and national sovereignty, following the official launch of Zimbabwe’s National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy (2026-2030) at the Parliament Building in Mt Hampden this Friday.
The launch, presided over by President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa, signals Government’s intent to harness AI as a cornerstone for economic growth, technological innovation, and social inclusion.
Speaking during the official launch of the Strategy, the Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera, emphasised that the strategy positions Zimbabwe to engage meaningfully with the global economy while advancing the nation’s Vision 2030 goals.
“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. It embraces our Education 5.0 philosophy, emphasising AI literacy and capabilities from primary schools to universities,” she said.
The Minister highlighted that technological adaptation is generational, noting that AI represents not merely a technical shift but a “fundamental reordering of societies and economies.”
“Implementing this strategy requires significant investment and strategic resource mobilisation, with a focus on AI’s highest-impact areas. Building partnerships is essential, and developing AI capabilities takes long-term commitment. Key stakeholders include universities for research, the private sector for tech adoption and job creation, civil society for ethical innovation, development partners for capacity building, and the diaspora for valuable skills and networks.”
The Strategy recognises that successful AI deployment is dependent on robust foundational systems, including digital infrastructure, data governance, a skilled workforce, effective institutions, and regulatory clarity.
The strategy’s emphasis on inclusion, particularly for women, youth, rural communities, and persons with disabilities, signals a commitment to equitable digital transformation.
Minister Mavetera reaffirmed that the Strategy represents a starting point for Zimbabwe’s AI-enabled transformation.
“The path ahead will be challenging, but with determination, collaboration, and visionary leadership, we can navigate these obstacles. Now is the time for action.”
The National AI Strategy positions AI not as an isolated technological initiative, but as a transformative tool for sustainable national development.
