Story by Margaret Matibiri
ZIMBABWE has taken a significant step towards digital transformation, with the launch of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe’s AI platform reinforcing Government’s push to secure better economic returns through innovation and local technological development.
Government says the rollout aligns with the recently unveiled Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026-2030), positioning the country to transition from a technology consumer to a producer.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Dr Tatenda Mavetera said the development marks a turning point in Zimbabwe’s digital trajectory.
“It is my great pleasure to join you today for the launch of Econet AI, a milestone that signals Zimbabwe’s firm transition from aspiration to action in the digital age. This event comes at a defining moment for our country,” she said.
“Exactly a month ago, we stood at the New Parliament Building in Mount Hampden as His Excellency officially launched the Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026-2030). Zimbabwe has shifted from being a passive consumer of technology to becoming a creator and innovator.
“The launch exemplifies this change, occurring at the vital intersection of supportive government policy and remarkable private-sector innovation. It shows that key players in the ICT sector are responding to the President’s call to harness new technologies for economic advancement.”
Dr Mavetera said artificial intelligence is already reshaping economic activity.
“With today’s launch, AI is no longer a future technology concept, it is here, already beginning to define and impact how we work, live and do business. Nations that are investing in AI today will shape the global economy tomorrow. Zimbabwe has made the strategic choice to lead this revolution and actively compete for the future. I am pleased that what I have just witnessed at the launch of Econet AI today is very much in line with our National AI Strategy,” she said.
She outlined Government’s framework to support AI growth, including infrastructure, skills development and innovation.
“Government is implementing a comprehensive framework that includes high-performance computing, secure data systems, and nationwide connectivity to achieve strategic autonomy. We are investing in talent development, research and innovation. The future of AI in Zimbabwe relies on our people, engineers, data scientists, and young innovators. By utilising our high literacy rate and the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 framework, we’re creating a strong AI talent ecosystem that fosters innovation and adapts to change. The success of our AI transformation hinges on the quality and inclusivity of this talent base.”
Dr Mavetera also highlighted infrastructure investments by Cassava Technologies, saying they will strengthen Zimbabwe’s digital capacity.
“Cassava has declared that Zimbabwe can now access Graphics Processing Unit(GPU) clusters, raw compute power, enterprise AI capabilities, and open access fibre, right here, on home soil. For years, our developers, researchers, and startups had to beg for cloud credits from foreign providers. They faced latency, data sovereignty issues, and dollar-denominated costs. That era ends today…We are no longer renting brains from abroad, we are building our own,” she said.
Describing AI as transformative, Dr Mavetera added: “AI is the new electricity. To ignore it is to plan for poverty. To embrace it is to plan for prosperity.”
The launch signals a shift in Zimbabwe’s participation in the global digital economy, with Government positioning artificial intelligence as a key driver of future growth.
