Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe has launched the National Broadband Plan for the period of 2020 to 2030 to establish a highly connected Information Society to drive the country’s economic growth.
The plan, aligned with the country’s National Development Strategy (NDS1) and the Zimbabwe National Policy for Information Communication Technology (ICT) of 2022 to 2027, envisions universal and reliable broadband networks, services, and applications by 2030.
Present at the launch yesterday was the Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Hon Tatenda Mavetera whose vision and dedication has been instrumental in driving the country’s broadband policy forward.
Speaking at the official launch, Minister Mavetera expressed her joy as she witnessed the policy being officialised.
“I am delighted to be here today to witness the simultaneous launch of three important ICT policies: the Reviewed Zimbabwe National Policy for Information Communication Technology (ICT) for the period 2022 to 2027, the Zimbabwe National Broadband Plan spanning from 2020 to 2030, and the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan.
“Under the Infrastructure, Utilities, and Digital Economy Pillar of Zimbabwe’s First National Development Strategy (NDS1), ICTs have been designated as key enablers of economic development. Therefore, their integration into all national development strategies is essential, ensuring universal access by 2030.” She said.
The National Broadband Plan outlines five overarching goals and a set of objectives to realize the country’s broadband aspirations.
According to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, ICTs are crucial for achieving Vision 2030.
“I urge communities to take advantage of these developments to create wealth by improving the viability and profitability of their enterprises and projects. Small and Medium Enterprises, artists, music and cultural industries, women, the youth and farmers, among others, must exploit online platforms as well as ICT-driven productive and trading networks,” he said.
“In addition, the policies we are launching today provide sufficient guidance to the ICT sector. All parties, including civil society organisations, businesses and the general public, are called upon to play by the rules. Ignorance is no defence,” he added.
The five goals, which aim to achieve universal and reliable broadband connectivity throughout Zimbabwe, ensure that economic growth and sustainable development is achieved.
