Story by Patience Nyagato
THE role of information communication technology (ICT) in economic growth and sustainable development was topical at the Zimbabwe ICT Awards held in Harare Thursday night.
Reflecting on the strides made in the ICT sector, the awards ceremony which saw companies and individuals getting recognition served as a reminder of the significance of a dynamic and inclusive digital ecosystem in the country’s development agenda.
“In today’s modern society, technology plays a fundamental role in driving transformation across various sectors, including health care, education, and finance. The Excellence Awards encourage organisations and individuals to strive for superior performance, promoting a spirit of competition that can lead to advancement, benefiting the entire community. Recognising this excellence, not only multiplies professionals to enhance their skills and solutions but also highlights the importance of technology, in improving lives and boosting economic growth.
“As we prepare to explore what defines excellence in ice cities and its broader impact on society, it is also important to remember that these are celebrations of progress and a call to action. They edge everyone to push borders and innovate, ensuring that remains competitive in an increasingly digital world,” said the Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services Honourable Tatenda Mavetera.
Harare Metropolitan Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Charles Tavengwa said, “The world we live in today is a rapidly home driven by technological advancements that ship align, businesses and societies. The ICT sector is the catalyst for this transformation, innovation, economic growth and sustainable development. We are witnessing remarkable strides in this field with brilliant minds and innovative inverted companies imaging to tackle local challenges and compete in the growth game.”
Guest of Honour at the awards, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Honourable Kazembe Kazembe, noted that technology has the potential to enhance the quality of life for all Zimbabweans.
“As we honour excellence, let us also remember the responsibility that comes with it. The challenges we face today, whether cybersecurity threats, digital divide issues, or the need for sustainable technology, demand our collective effort and, most importantly, creativity. Together we can pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future. You achieved this,” he said.
The Zimbabwe ICT Excellence Awards recognised excellence across various categories, including Best Cyber Security Initiative, Best ICT Education, Best ICT Inclusion for People with Disabilities, Best Social Media for Development, Best Digital Empowerment Initiative and Best Social Media Influencer.
