Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
GOVERNMENT efforts to bridge the digital divide and expand access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) are gathering momentum, with communities across Zimbabwe benefiting from the rollout of Digital Information Centres.
The country joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, with Government reaffirming its commitment to digital inclusion through the continued establishment of community-based digital centres.
National commemorations held in Nemamwa, Masvingo Province, were marked by the commissioning of a new Digital Information Centre, bringing the total number of such facilities across the country to 205.
Community members welcomed the development, saying the centre will improve access to information, digital services and educational resources.
“As a community, we are happy with this development. It will benefit not only school-going children but people of all age groups. We can now access computers and the internet, which will also improve our agricultural activities,” said one community member.
Another added: “We will be using this facility to complete assignments, access information and obtain weather updates. We are delighted to benefit from this modern facility.”
The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) said the initiative is aimed at ensuring that communities, particularly in remote areas, have access to digital technologies and services.
POTRAZ Director-General, Dr Gift Machengete said significant progress has been made in expanding digital infrastructure nationwide.
“The Nemamwa Digital Information Centre is among 32 newly established centres across the country. These complement the 172 centres that have been upgraded or established at existing post offices nationwide. We will continue implementing this programme to ensure that more communities have access to digital technologies and services,” he said.
Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera said resilient digital infrastructure is critical to national development.
“This year’s World Telecommunication and Information Society Day theme, ‘Digital Lifelines: Strengthening Resilience in a Connected World’, reflects our increasing reliance on digital systems.
“From mobile phones and internet connectivity to banking and healthcare services, digital technologies have become essential tools that create opportunities for farmers, students, entrepreneurs and families. Any disruption to these systems can have far-reaching consequences, making resilient digital infrastructure a national priority.
“Zimbabwe requires robust and secure digital systems to support economic transformation and the attainment of upper-middle-income economy status by 2030,” she said.
Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira, highlighted progress made in expanding digital access across the province.
“As a province, we have recorded significant progress in digital transformation. During the first and second quarters of 2026, a total of 104 Starlink kits were distributed to schools, clinics and local authorities, improving internet connectivity and access to digital services.
“In addition, four ICT-equipped laboratories were established, while seven schools received e-learning platforms to support digital education and improve learning outcomes. These initiatives demonstrate our commitment to bridging the digital divide and promoting inclusive socio-economic development through technology,” he said.
The event also saw the distribution of 320 computers and 32 Starlink kits to schools across Masvingo Province, while people with disabilities received food hampers donated by the First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa.
The expansion of Digital Information Centres is expected to strengthen digital inclusion, improve access to information and unlock new opportunities for education, innovation and economic development across Zimbabwe.
