What is a smart Zimbabwe master plan?

SMART Zimbabwe Master Plan can be likened to a structure that is solidly anchored on three common Platforms which act as the foundation on which the various SMART Pillars are rooted on. The common Platforms described below should constantly be reviewed to ensure their alignment to technology and skills trends.

Can Zimbabwe become a software and hardware development hub?

Zimbabwe has a high literacy level and should leverage on this to become a software and hardware development hub. The Government of Zimbabwe intends to increase innovation through promoting local content, heritage and culture applications development.

Is ICT reducing the 'digital divide' in Zimbabwe?

The uptake and use of ICTs has greatly increased in recent years resulting in considerable reduction on the “digital divide” between rural and urban areas. A recent survey conducted by the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT) shows that the country’s literacy rate stands at 94 percent — the highest in Africa.

How is Zimbabwe connected to the undersea optic fibre network?

Zimbabwe is now connected to the undersea optic fibre cable networks through SEACOM and EASSy cables in the Indian Ocean and WACS cable in the Atlantic Ocean. The efforts of the public and private sectors in this development are commendable.

What is the role of a converged regulatory authority in Zimbabwe?

The Ministry provides guidance, policy oversight and overall ICT sector coordination and leadership. A converged regulatory authority (following the merger of Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe and Broadcasting Authority of Zimbabwe) will promote policy harmonization.