President Emmerson Mnangagwa has launched the Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026–2030), describing artificial intelligence as a major catalyst for technological transformation and economic modernisation.
The strategy was unveiled on 13 March 2026 at the Parliament Building in Mount Hampden, where the President delivered the keynote address highlighting the growing importance of digital technologies in shaping Zimbabwe’s future development.
Mnangagwa said artificial intelligence is reshaping economies and societies globally, creating new opportunities for countries that invest in digital infrastructure and technological capacity.
“The current paradigm brings to the fore the urgent need to increase capacities towards digital architecture and sovereignty. The Zimbabwe we all envision must be digitally robust and agile,” Mnangagwa said.
He said the country must embrace emerging technologies to unlock AI-driven opportunities that support industrialisation, modernisation and sustainable economic growth.
“We have the duty to embrace emerging technologies to unlock numerous Artificial Intelligence-driven opportunities that will propel modernisation, industrialisation, and sustainable economic growth,” he said.
Strategy aimed at economic transformation
Mnangagwa said the Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence Strategy marks a new chapter in the country’s development trajectory and demonstrates Zimbabwe’s readiness to participate in the global digital economy.
“It is a bold response to the disruptive effects of the ever-evolving technological era,” he said.
“As a key development enabler, this strategy should help unleash our full potential and open new frontiers in agriculture, mining, healthcare, finance and education.”
The President said artificial intelligence has the potential to improve productivity, enhance decision-making and drive innovation across several sectors of the economy.
Broad stakeholder participation
According to Mnangagwa, the development of the strategy incorporated input from a wide range of stakeholders, including experts, policymakers and industry participants.
He said the policy framework builds on findings from the Zimbabwe Artificial Intelligence Readiness Assessment Report, which examined the country’s preparedness to adopt and integrate AI technologies.
The Government expects the strategy to guide investment in digital infrastructure, research, skills development and innovation ecosystems that support the growth of AI-driven solutions.
Zimbabwe has been increasing its focus on digital transformation as part of broader efforts to modernise the economy and strengthen technological capabilities.
The AI strategy forms part of these efforts, with authorities hoping it will help position the country to benefit from emerging technologies while supporting economic growth and national development.
By Granite Post Reporter
