Zimbabwe to Unveil National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in October

Zimbabwe will launch its National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy in October, a move aimed at positioning the country at the center of Africa’s digital transformation. The announcement was made yesterday by Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera at the opening of the inaugural AI Summit for Africa in Victoria Falls.

Minister Mavetera confirmed that the framework has been completed. “We have finalised the National AI Strategy, and it will be unveiled this October,” she said. She explained that the strategy was informed by extensive consultations and will be strengthened by recommendations from the summit.

“I look forward to the outcomes of these discussions. We will adopt the Summit’s recommendations to strengthen Zimbabwe’s upcoming AI strategy and contribute to a continental framework that amplifies Africa’s voice on Artificial Intelligence,” Mavetera added.

She also linked the AI policy to the country’s National Development Strategy One, emphasizing that digital transformation is central to Zimbabwe’s vision of becoming an upper-middle-income economy by 2030. “Digital transformation is a critical enabler in the march towards an upper-middle-income society by 2030. Zimbabwe is determined to ensure Artificial Intelligence contributes meaningfully to this vision,” she said.

Mavetera described the AI Summit as a key platform to position Zimbabwe as a trailblazer in technology policy. “This summit is an opportunity for us to shape the future we want. Zimbabwe is committed to charting a course that secures sovereignty, enhances competitiveness, and places Africa as a leader in technological innovation,” she said.

Chairperson of the Intelligence Institute of Africa, Dr. Dennis Magaya, said the conference would serve as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation across the continent. “The AI Conference for Africa aims to facilitate knowledge exchange, strategic partnerships, and policy dialogue to accelerate AI integration across multiple sectors. The event will showcase how AI can help tackle Africa’s developmental challenges while driving sustainable and inclusive growth,” he said.

The unveiling of Zimbabwe’s AI Strategy in October is expected to mark a milestone for the country’s digital economy, reinforcing its commitment to technology-driven growth while contributing to Africa’s broader AI agenda.