Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Zimeye
Published on 2024-03-10 11:00:00
President Mnangagwa recently reprimanded telecommunication companies over high data tariffs during a keynote address at the launch of the National ICT Policies and commissioning of the Fibre Optic Backbone Network in Somabhula, Midlands Province. The event marked the unveiling of three crucial policies: the Reviewed National ICT Policy, the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master-Plan, and the National Broadband Plan. This initiative demonstrates the Second Republic’s commitment to inclusive development.
Addressing the audience, President Mnangagwa expressed his gratitude to the people of Somabhula and the Midlands Province for their overwhelming support during the 2023 Harmonized General Elections. He applauded their unity, organization, and grassroots mobilization efforts, urging them to continue the momentum as the country progresses.
The policies launched align with the National Development Strategy, focusing on providing affordable, fast, and secure digital technologies to all communities. In today’s digital age, societies and economies heavily rely on ICTs, making access to technology a crucial aspect of development.
The National ICT Policy sets out the framework for promoting digital innovation, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and cyber-security measures. By creating a conducive environment for a digital economy, the administration aims to empower communities across the country, ensuring equal opportunities for learners and entrepreneurs in both urban and rural areas.
The Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Masterplan emphasizes the use of technology to enhance creativity and improve the quality of life for all citizens. Beyond social media and entertainment, digital technologies are envisioned to transform service delivery in healthcare, education, agriculture, and other sectors, enhancing overall societal well-being.
Zimbabwe’s leadership in the Smart Agriculture Flagship Project under the Smart Africa Alliance showcases the country’s utilization of ICT and geo-spatial technologies for weather prediction, land planning, crop assessments, and agriculture information management. The National Broadband Plan underscores Zimbabwe’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring universal access to high-speed internet connectivity.
The government’s emphasis on knowledge sharing, social inclusion, and economic growth through broadband infrastructure expansion aligns with the nation’s development goals. All stakeholders, including civil society organizations, businesses, and the public, are called upon to abide by the regulations outlined in the policies to harness the full potential of ICT for national development.
President Mnangagwa reiterated the importance of using ICTs responsibly to uphold national values of unity, harmony, peace, and productivity. Embracing digital technologies should serve as a means to protect and promote Zimbabwe’s identity and heritage, fostering a culture of positivity and progress.
In conclusion, the president emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding broadband infrastructure and network coverage through partnerships with service providers. Affordable data prices and accessible services are key priorities in ensuring widespread internet connectivity for all communities. The president commended the Bandwidth and Cloud Services Group for investing in Zimbabwe and leveraging existing infrastructure to enhance the country’s digital capabilities.
The launch of the National ICT Policies and the Fibre Optic Backbone Network signifies Zimbabwe’s stride towards a digitized future, where technology serves as a catalyst for inclusive development and economic growth. As the nation embraces the digital revolution, President Mnangagwa’s vision for a connected and empowered society remains at the forefront of the country’s progress.
Read the original article on The Zimbabwe Eye
