Zimbabwe’s digital transformation is gaining momentum, with the Digitalize Zimbabwe ICT Expo emerging as a flagship event. The expo has become a central platform showcasing the nation’s progress toward its 2030 Digitalize Zimbabwe targets, emphasizing digital inclusivity and bridging the digital divide across both urban and rural areas.
The Digitalize Zimbabwe Program was launched to create a digitally empowered economy by connecting the entire country to modern ICT infrastructure. The introduction of free internet hotspots and the “Masai Sai Kumunhu Wese” initiative, aimed at providing universal internet access, marked a significant step forward in achieving this goal.
Following successful editions in towns like Karoi and Domboshava, the next expo will be held in Beitbridge on 1st and 2nd November 2024. It is set to bring together public and private sector stakeholders, fostering collaboration to drive Zimbabwe’s digital agenda.
The event reflects the government’s commitment to building a digitally inclusive society, supporting businesses, and promoting economic growth through technology.
The Roving ICT Expo has been instrumental in improving connectivity and driving digital transformation across Zimbabwe. Karoi became the second town to host the expo, where government institutions, private companies, and technology enthusiasts demonstrated how digital solutions are transforming services. In towns like Chinhoyi, for example, the municipality has digitized its systems, investing in GPS technology to monitor infrastructure and allowing residents to manage payments and track land applications online. These digital platforms enhance transparency, efficiency, and public service delivery, aligning with the government’s broader vision.
Similarly, the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) has digitized its processes, moving tendering, application, and evaluation online, which has increased accessibility and efficiency for businesses across the country.
The Digitalize Zimbabwe Expo highlights a commitment to fostering innovation and promoting economic growth through ICT. Dr. Tatenda Mavetera, Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, emphasized that the expo serves as more than a showcase of technology. It is a platform for exploring how digital solutions can fuel growth, improve public services, and enhance quality of life.
Her colleague, Hon. Marian Chombo, Minister of State for Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of digital transformation for transparency and accountability in service delivery. By digitizing systems, critical services become accessible to all citizens, regardless of location.
The government’s digital transformation efforts go beyond infrastructure development. The Digitalize Zimbabwe Program emphasizes digital literacy and skills development, particularly among the youth. Community Information Centers have been established nationwide, providing free Wi-Fi and digital training programs to rural and urban communities alike. These centers play a critical role in bridging the digital divide, offering access to the internet and equipping citizens with the skills necessary for a modern, tech-driven economy.
Additionally, the Ministry of ICT aims to train 150,000 youths by the end of 2024 in various fields related to digital entrepreneurship. This initiative ensures that young Zimbabweans become creators, innovators, and entrepreneurs contributing to the country’s growing digital economy.
As Zimbabwe advances towards its 2030 digitalization goals, the Digitalize Zimbabwe Expo continues to be a driving force in the national agenda. By bringing together government agencies, the private sector, and civil society, the expo fosters collaboration and innovation to address challenges such as rural connectivity and infrastructure development.
The success of the expo is a testament to the government’s commitment to creating a future where all Zimbabweans have access to the digital tools and technologies necessary to thrive.
With continued investment in broadband infrastructure, the expansion of base stations, and network upgrades from 3G to 4G, Zimbabwe is well on its way to achieving its 2030 Digitalize Zimbabwe targets.
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