The Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Hon. Tatenda Mavetera, officially opened the Digital Economy Conference 2026 at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair 2026 in Bulawayo, urging Zimbabwe to embrace digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI) as key drivers of economic growth under Vision 2030.

Speaking at the conference, Minister Mavetera highlighted the urgency of adopting new technologies, quoting Klaus Schwab, who said, “In the new world, it is not the big fish that eats the small fish but the fast fish that eats the slow fish.”

She emphasised that Zimbabwe must act quickly, adding, “Zimbabwe must be fast. We must not be spectators in this revolution. We must be active participants, deliberate builders, and confident leaders.”

The minister also reflected on the launch of the Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026–2030) by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on March 13, 2026.

“The strategy is meant to drive transformation across key sectors such as agriculture, mining, healthcare, education, and finance,” she said.

The President stressed that the country’s approach must focus on local ownership, saying Zimbabwe’s AI journey “must not be defined by dependency but by ownership… building systems that understand our values, speak our languages, and solve our unique national challenges”.

Minister Mavetera underscored that the strategy is guided by the principle “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo / a nation is built by its own people”, reinforcing the need for homegrown innovation.

She also pointed to progress in other African countries. Rwanda, under ICT Minister Paula Ingabire, has made significant strides in digital transformation, while Kenya and Ghana are also advancing AI adoption.

Quoting Kofi Annan, she said, “Knowledge is power.” Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family.” She added that Africa must take control of its digital future.

“The launch of the Zimbabwe National Innovation Acceleration Centre (NIAC) will help turn ideas into businesses and support young innovators. Practical action and innovation must lead to real results, jobs, and economic growth,” Minister Mavetera added.

Quoting Satya Nadella, she said, “Ultimately, progress is measured by the impact of technology on people,” emphasising that AI must improve lives.

“Technology should reach all citizens, from farmers to students and entrepreneurs, ensuring inclusive development,” she said.

Minister Mavetera also referenced Andrew Ng, who said, “Artificial intelligence is the new electricity”, highlighting how AI is transforming industries worldwide.

“Zimbabwe must use AI not just for basic applications but for real solutions such as improving agriculture, mining efficiency, and financial services,” Hon. Mavetera stated.

In closing, the minister called for action and collaboration, urging stakeholders to move beyond discussion to implementation.

She welcomed Minister Paula Ingabire as Guest of Honour, describing her as a key figure in Africa’s digital transformation, and encouraged stronger partnerships across the continent to build a competitive and inclusive digital economy.

A groundbreaking initiative, U CAN GROW ZIMBABWE, is poised to revolutionise the nation’s agricultural landscape and economic future, moving beyond traditional farming to foster a new generation of successful agri-preneurs.

Spearheaded by Chairman Dr. David Munowenyu who is also the Chief Executive Officer for Discovery Ambulances, this visionary movement promises to transform lives and uplift communities across Zimbabwe.

Dr. Munowenyu said the profound scope of this endeavor is about building sustainable livelihoods.

“If you thought Discovery Ambulance Services was a game changer, then brace yourself for what U CAN GROW ZIMBABWE is about to become.

“This is not just another initiative it is a bold, visionary movement designed to transform lives, uplift communities and redefine the future of agriculture and economic empowerment,” said Dr Munowenyu.

He said the initiative is designed as a comprehensive value chain solution.

“U CAN GROW ZIMBABWE goes beyond farming. It is about building sustainable livelihoods, turning struggling farmers into successful agri-preneurs and creating a powerful ecosystem where innovation, technology, and opportunity meet.

From establishing agriculture hubs and seed banks to securing reliable markets for every product, this is a complete value chain solution that leaves no one and no place behind,” said Dr. Munowenyu.

He further indicated the far-reaching impact, saying it aims to achieve empowering communities.

“It strengthens food security, creating jobs, and contributing meaningfully to national development goals.

“This is about rewriting the narrative, proving that with the right support, structure and vision, anyone can grow, succeed, and thrive.”

Dr Munowenyu said the future of the country needs a morden drive and backed up with a sustainable financial system for all.

“The journey ahead is bold, the mission is clear and the impact will be undeniable. Watch closely because what’s coming is not just impressive… it is going to be truly mind-blowing.”

Dr. David Munowenyu, through his Discovery Ambulance Services, has a notable history of philanthropic contributions to Zimbabwe’s healthcare sector.

His efforts have included donating state-of-the-art ICU mobile ambulances and strengthening emergency medical response capabilities across the nation.

These initiatives have significantly improved healthcare access and outcomes for countless Zimbabweans, demonstrating a consistent commitment to community welfare and national development.

His work with Discovery Ambulance Services has been recognized for its systemic impact in reducing healthcare inequalities.

Zimbabwe’s domestic direct investments skyrocketed by 2.406 percent to USD 102.38 million in the first quarter of 2026, while total projected investment value jumped 62 percent compared to the previous quarter, signalling a decisive shift toward larger, more capital-intensive projects under the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency’s new facilitation drive.

“Domestic Direct Investments increased significantly, with contributions rising by 2 406 (from USD 4.08 million to USD 102.38 million) and there was a notable 62 percent increase in projected investment value compared to the previous quarter, driven by fewer but more capital-intensive projects,” said ZIDA Chief Executive Officer Mr Tafadzwa Chinamo, presenting the agency’s Quarter One Report.

“This reflects sustained investor confidence alongside increased use of leveraged financing.”

The capital structure of new investments saw capital equipment imports accounting for 46 percent of total investment, followed by foreign currency cash injections at 25 percent and foreign loans at 22 percent.

However, the agency recorded a sharp decline in overall investment licensing activity.

The number of new licences issued fell by 32.2 percent year-on-year, from 214 to 146, while total projected investment value decreased by 59.6 percent compared to the first quarter of 2025.

“As we reflect on the first quarter of 2026, I am pleased to report that ZIDA has made significant and measurable progress in strengthening the investment environment, despite a challenging global economic and geopolitical landscape.

“This progress has been driven by key policy developments, enhanced investor engagement and improvements in investment facilitation. The period also reflects a shift towards higher-value investments and more structured investment activity, while highlighting the need to strengthen conversion and execution going forward,” he said.

A major milestone during the period under review was Cabinet’s approval of the Public-Private Partnership Guideline, which provides a clear and standardised framework for the preparation, appraisal, and implementation of PPP projects.

“This is a significant development for Zimbabwe’s investment landscape, as it enhances transparency, improves coordination across Government, and strengthens investor confidence through clearer processes and risk allocation mechanisms,” Mr Chinamo said.

The guideline is expected to accelerate infrastructure delivery and create a more predictable environment for private sector participation.

The Agency continued advancing ease-of-doing-business reforms.

Significant fee reductions were enacted under the ZIDA General Investments (S.I. 17 of 2026) and Special Economic Zones (S.I. 18 of 2026) Regulations.

“This downward review of licensing fees is a deliberate intervention to reduce the cost of entry and enhance Zimbabwe’s competitiveness, reaffirming the country’s commitment to being a cost-competitive investment destination and signalling that Zimbabwe is open for business,” Mr Chinamo added.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, ZIDA launched the Business and Knowledge Process Outsourcing Framework.

Leveraging a youthful, English-speaking workforce with a 93.7 percent literacy rate, the premises-based model aims to position Zimbabwe as a premier outsourcing hub connecting European and Asian time zones, supported by targeted fiscal incentives.

The mixed performance, Mr Chinamo noted, indicates the need to boost conversion rates.

The agency continues to focus on higher-value investments while addressing the decline in overall licence issuance through ongoing policy reforms and investor facilitation improvements.