The Zimbabwean government has officially endorsed its National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy from 2026 through 2030.
Tatenda Mavetera, the Minister of Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, highlighted this development, stating, “This represents a crucial milestone in our journey towards digital transformation.”
The newly approved strategy aims to leverage AI for economic advancement, stimulate innovation, and uphold data sovereignty while effectively addressing associated risks.
Mavetera noted, “The cabinet’s endorsement of the AI strategy demonstrates a robust commitment from the top levels of government to weave AI into Zimbabwe’s national growth agenda.”
She expressed gratitude to all partners involved, including various government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), UN bodies like UNESCO, the regulator Potraz, private sector representatives, ICT sector organizations, academia, member states of multilateral organizations such as ITU, ATU, AU, and SADC, as well as students and the general public who contributed to the consultative process.
With this step, Zimbabwe joins many African nations, such as Rwanda, Egypt, Morocco, Mauritius, Tunisia, Benin, and Senegal, that have adopted national AI strategies.
Countries like Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria are either formulating their own AI strategies or have already begun implementation, reflecting a broader trend of governments establishing frameworks to guide AI development.
In conclusion, the minister affirmed, “We are undoubtedly working towards creating an inclusive and digitally empowered future for all Zimbabweans.”
