Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to increase investments in information communication technologies (ICTs) as the nation targets a digital economy.
Under the National Development Strategy One, access to efficient and affordable information communication technology (ICT) infrastructure is expected to create an opportunity for Zimbabwe to become a digital economy.
The government’s drive in that regard seeks to provide equitable access to computer accessories, internet and mobile systems to promote e-learning and e-commerce across the country.
“Under the Second Republic, the entrenchment of ICTs has heightened digitalization of development in all centres across the country. In the past four years, major milestones have been achieved notably through e-learning facilities, revamping of the internet infrastructure, the establishment of community information centres, e- learnings laboratories for Primary and Secondary Education to bridge the digital gap.
“Therefore the digital economy projects dovetail with our plan for sustainable development in improving the quality of life for all Zimbabweans,” said the Minister of Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere.
Data released by the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) reveals an increase in the uptake of mobile gadgets and services coupled with an ever-rise in mobile data and internet usage as well as connectivity through the deployment of fibre to homes and sharing of base stations.
Such a trend has been described by the government as a clear indication of strides being achieved towards a digital economy.
“A huge increase is also being witnessed in terms of
mobile data and internet usage and connectivity through deployment of fiber to homes, shared base stations and broadband, coverage of technologies, bearing in mind our agenda is mainly the rural schools we are therefore doing our best to achieve an increased project uptake to ensure that the vision of a digital economy becomes a reality. I am confident Zimbabwe is on track to achieve a digital economy despite some bottlenecks or challenges,” he added.
According to a POTRAZ report, over 670 projects have been completed so far, while over 145 are ongoing, bringing the total number of projects to more than 820.