By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Zimbabwe has reaffirmed its
commitment to building an inclusive digital economy during the World Summit on
the Information Society (WSIS) Forum 2026 in Geneva, where the country
showcased progress in digital infrastructure, skills development, artificial
intelligence (AI) governance and public sector transformation.
Zimbabwe’s Minister of
Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Hon. Tatenda
Mavetera, represented the country at the global forum, participating in
high-level discussions on inclusive digital transformation, women’s leadership in
ICT, meaningful connectivity, AI governance and the priorities of landlocked
developing countries.
Addressing the forum,
Mavetera highlighted Zimbabwe’s efforts to expand digital infrastructure,
strengthen digital skills development, accelerate public sector digital
transformation and implement the country’s National Artificial Intelligence
Strategy.
She said Zimbabwe’s digital
policy direction remains focused on creating an economy where technology-driven
opportunities are accessible to all citizens and communities.
During the forum, Zimbabwe
received international recognition after the Internet Society Zimbabwe
Chapter’s “Digital Skills Training for Persons with Disabilities” project won
the WSIS Prize in the Access to Information and Knowledge category.
Mavetera described the award
as an affirmation of Zimbabwe’s commitment to digital inclusion and empowering
persons with disabilities through access to technology and digital skills.
The minister also held
bilateral engagements with fellow ministers, regulators and development
partners on the margins of the forum, including discussions aimed at mobilising
support for Dr Cosmas Zavazava’s re-election as Director of the International Telecommunication
Union (ITU) Telecommunication Development Bureau.
She said Zimbabwe remains
committed to contributing to global efforts aimed at advancing equitable
digital development and strengthening Africa’s role in shaping the future of
technology.
The WSIS Forum 2026 brought
together governments, international organisations, regulators, private sector
leaders, academia and civil society representatives to discuss strategies for
advancing digital inclusion, responsible AI and sustainable digital transformation
worldwide.
