Zimbabwe and Australia explore deeper ICT cooperation
Date: 2026-01-27
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Zimbabwe
and Australia have held high-level discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral
cooperation in information and communication technologies, with a focus on
emerging technologies, digital transformation and online safety.
The
talks took place when Zimbabwe’s Minister of Information and Communication
Technology, Postal and Courier Services and Member of Parliament for Chikomba
West, Hon. Tatenda Mavetera, hosted Australia’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Her
Excellency Minoli Perera.
During
the meeting, the two sides explored opportunities for collaboration in
innovation-driven areas, including artificial intelligence and technology
capacity building. Hon. Mavetera outlined Zimbabwe’s progress in digital
transformation and disclosed that the country is preparing to launch a National
Artificial Intelligence Strategy on March 13, 2026, under the guidance of
President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.
Australia
expressed readiness to share expertise in artificial intelligence and skills
development, a move described as supportive of Zimbabwe’s digital development
agenda.
Discussions also addressed child online safety, with both parties exchanging perspectives on policy and regulatory approaches. The Zimbabwean delegation took note of Australia’s ongoing national debate on social media use by young people as Zimbabwe moves toward finalizing its own Child Online Protection Policy. Key considerations include age verification mechanisms, digital literacy, parental empowerment and platform accountability.
Hon.
Mavetera said the engagement reflects the ministry’s commitment to advancing
technology while ensuring a safe and inclusive digital environment,
particularly for children and young people.
