- Zimbabwe has officially launched its National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy, spanning 2026-2030, aimed at driving socio-economic growth and modernization across key sectors.
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa presided over the launch event at the New Parliament Building in Mt Hampden.
- The strategy emphasizes unleashing Zimbabwe’s potential in agriculture, mining, healthcare, finance, and education through AI integration.
- The President urged increased investment in digital infrastructure and called for legislation guaranteeing online safety and protection for children.
President Mnangagwa hailed the new strategy as a ‘declaration of our collective readiness for the transformative impact of AI’ and a ‘bold response to the disruptive effects of the ever-evolving technological era.’ The initiative is designed to propel the country’s modernization and industrialization, ensuring a digitally robust and agile Zimbabwe. He stressed the importance of creating national guidelines for data privacy, fairness, and accountability to ensure human-centric and transparent AI use.
The launch ceremony featured an AI-powered robot named Yamurai, which welcomed President Mnangagwa, highlighting the practical applications and future vision of the strategy. United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr. Edward Kallon, congratulated Zimbabwe, stressing that the true test of the strategy lies in its implementation and the need for ongoing dialogue between the government and the private sector.
The strategy is anchored on four critical foundational pillars, with an emphasis on international collaboration and partnerships to adopt best practices and attract responsible investment. Mnangagwa called on the private sector to invest in AI and partner with start-ups to transform industries.
Timeline
- March 14, 2026, morning: Reports highlight President Mnangagwa’s call for private sector investment and international collaboration in AI.
- March 13, 2026, afternoon/evening (UTC+2): The Herald and Xinhua report extensively on the official launch ceremony at the New Parliament Building.
- March 13, 2026, mid-day (UTC+2): President Mnangagwa tours exhibition stands showcasing local ICT innovations ahead of the formal launch.
Key Players
- President Emmerson Mnangagwa: Launched the National AI Strategy.
- Tatenda Mavetera (ICT Minister): Government official present at the launch.
- Advocate Jacob Mudenda (Speaker of Parliament): Welcomed President Mnangagwa at the New Parliament Building.
- Mr. Edward Kallon (UN Resident Coordinator): Commended Zimbabwe’s initiative and offered UN support.
- Yamurai: An AI-powered robot that welcomed President Mnangagwa.
