Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
ZIMBABWE’s drive toward nationwide digital connectivity continues to gather momentum, with the Government expanding access to computers and internet services in rural areas as part of its broader digital transformation agenda. This follows the handover of laptops and Starlink kits to 26 schools across all constituencies in Masvingo Province.
Masvingo Province recently hosted the Digitize Zimbabwe Roving ICT Expo, an event that brings together companies and institutions showcasing strides made toward digitising their products and services.
The expo also marked the launch of free Wi-Fi hotspots in the province and the handover of laptops and Starlink kits to rural schools, a development described as a major step toward inclusive digital transformation.
For rural educators, the initiative marks a significant milestone.
“Our school is in rural Gutu and we are happy to receive computers and a Starlink kit as these will ensure our learners have access to the internet,” Matizha Primary School Headmaster, Mr Collen Mawire said.
“As a rural school, we did not have the capacity to buy computers or install internet services. We thank the government for capacitating us. Our learners can now use computers for research,” Dimbiti Primary School Head, Mr Tafirei Charamba added.
Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera, said the programme aims to strengthen nationwide access to digital tools and knowledge.
“Masvingo is the seventh province where we are holding the Digitize Zimbabwe Roving ICT Expo. The programme seeks to intensify digital connectivity nationwide. Under the Presidential Internet Scheme, we handed over computers, Starlink kits and launched free Wi-Fi hotspots in rural schools and constituencies across Masvingo Province. The programme is being implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. Our goal is to establish free Wi-Fi hotspots in all districts with gateways to ensure safe internet use,” she said.
“The Digitize Zimbabwe Programme emphasises inclusivity as we aim to ensure that digital transformation does not leave behind rural communities, learners, entrepreneurs and people with disabilities,” Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira weighed in.
For stakeholders and companies that exhibited at the expo, adopting new technologies is key to enhancing efficiency and improving service delivery.
“As a local authority, we are adopting new technologies in our operations, including digital payment systems and platforms that help us interact with clients and improve service delivery,” Mr Smart Dzairo of Masvingo Rural District Council said.
“As a city, we have embraced technology in various ways. We have several platforms that include support systems, payment platforms and planning platforms to improve convenience for our residents,” Masvingo City Council ICT Manager Mr Mike Mandigora noted.
Government is targeting universal digital access, improved e-learning, and enhanced service delivery in line with the National ICT Policy and Vision 2030.
