Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
THE Government says it remains committed to ensuring all citizens including those living in rural areas are protected from the threats of cyber risks.
As internet connectivity continues to grow across the country, rural communities are now under threat from cyberbullying, fraud and hacking.
Chivi district was the focal point this Monday as the government revealed that its arms are working on strengthening the cyber security framework to protect citizens and their businesses.
“The government, through the Ministry of ICT, Postal, and Courier Services, is fully committed to strengthening our cyber-security framework. We are working tirelessly to protect our citizens, businesses, and the nation at large from the ever-increasing cyber threats,” said the Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera.
“Our National Cyber Security Awareness Campaign is part of this broader effort, which involves working closely with key partners such as POTRAZ, law enforcement, and financial institutions like the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe.”
The rural folk welcomed the awareness campaign as a step in the right direction.
“We are happy that the government has decided to come to the rural areas to educate us on cyber threats and risks. Many of us fell under the trap due to limited knowledge about the new technologies,” said a participant at the campaign.
The Masvingo Provincial leadership highlighted the importance of promoting digital literacy in rural areas through local support systems.
“Cyber-security awareness is not just a technical issue, it is a matter of empowerment. By educating our rural communities about safe online practices, we can help them navigate the digital world confidently and securely.
“Moreover, as we promote digital literacy in these areas, we must also advocate for local support systems involving community leaders and educators,” the Permanent Secretary for Masvingo Province, Dr Addmore Pazvakavambwa said.
The government enacted the Cyber and Data Protection Act in 2021 to safeguard personal data and prosecute cyber-criminals.
