ZIMBABWE COMMITTED TO PROMOTING ICT GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT

The Government of Zimbabwe has acknowledged the Enhancement of Governance and Enabling Environment (EGEE-ICT) programme as a vital initiative for promoting ICT growth and development in Africa. This was revealed by Dr. Beaular Chirume, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, in a speech delivered at the Rainbow Hotel in Victoria Falls today. The meeting was joined by several COMESA representatives from different countries namely, Burundi, Comoros, Eswatini, Egypt, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe to mention but a few.

Dr. Chirume emphasized that the EGEE-ICT programme aims to deepen regional integration and growth of the ICT sector in Eastern Africa, Southern Africa, and the Indian Ocean region. She highlighted the importance of creating appropriate policies and legal frameworks to support economic development on the African continent.

“The EGEE-ICT programme is crucial for promoting ICT growth and development in our region,” Dr. Chirume said. “As a partner in the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), Zimbabwe is committed to supporting initiatives that promote regional integration and economic development.”

In her speech, Dr. Chirume also highlighted Zimbabwe’s progress in ICT development, citing the country’s steady growth in mobile penetration, internet subscriptions, and broadband penetration.

According to the Zimbabwe ICT Sector Second Quarter Performance Report of 2024, the country has achieved a mobile penetration rate of 96.76%, with significant increases in data and internet subscriptions.

The report also indicates that Zimbabwe’s internet penetration rate has risen to 78.55%, while broadband penetration has grown to 76.37%. These advancements are crucial for supporting other sectors in their transition to a digital economy.

In an interview, Dr. Chirume expressed pride in Zimbabwe’s progress in ICT development and reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that all citizens have access to affordable and reliable internet connectivity.

“We are working tirelessly to promote ICT growth and development in Zimbabwe,” Dr. Chirume said. “Through targeted programs and infrastructure expansion, we aim to increase access to affordable and reliable internet connectivity for all Zimbabweans.”

The Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services is driving this initiative, with a focus on promoting digital inclusion and supporting the growth of the ICT sector. As Zimbabwe continues to make progress in ICT development, the government remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote regional integration and economic development.

By Natalie Muzore