Story by Tamuka Charakupa
Harnessing emerging ICTs has been cited as key to effectively implementing the digital economy agenda.
The advent of modern technology such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) has proved to be a game changer in enhancing the economic growth of nations.
The new technologies have, however, come with a downside including cybercrime which is undermining their efficient and sustainable use.
Legislators are therefore taking the lead in closing the knowledge gap on current ICT trends and regulations with the law makers engaging the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) for a capacity building interface in Kariba at the weekend.
“Our role is to regulate technology to ensure it benefits society without causing harm to the same society. However, effective regulation is impossible without legislation hence highlighting the symbiotic relationship between us as the Regulator and you as legislators,” said POTRAZ director general, Dr Gift Machengete.
Parliamentary Portfolio Committee members, led by chairperson, Honourable Vusimuzi Moyo, noted the importance of the engagement in capacitating them to effectively carry out their oversight role in line with emerging technologies.
“We must ensure that our policies are forward looking, inclusive and geared towards bridging the digital divide that still exists in many parts of our nation,” said Hon Moyo.
Committee member, Honourable Raymore Machingura said, “We have learnt that POTRAZ through the USF fund can assist communities through setting up internet infrastructure which are used by operators. We therefore welcome these engagements because we know who approach when faced with challenges.”
“We often conduct public consultations but without possessing the adequate technical information on the subject matter. We are excited with such a platform because we now know the role of POTRAZ in the ICT sector of the country and this allows us to play our oversight role effectively,” noted another committee member, Honourable Samukeliso Maseko.
Meanwhile, the country is developing a new Postal and Telecommunications Bill which is currently under review by the Attorney General before being presented to the public through nationwide consultations.
