By Abel Karowangoro in Makaha, Mudzi District

The Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Tatenda Mavetera, has called on communities in Mudzi to fully embrace digital technologies as a key driver of economic growth and national development.

Speaking during the 8th edition of the Digitalize Zimbabwe ICT Roving Expo held in Mudzi, Minister Mavetera emphasized the importance of integrating technology into everyday life, noting that digital tools are critical in improving livelihoods, enhancing education, and unlocking economic opportunities.

“We urge the people of Mudzi to utilise technology in their daily lives. Digital transformation is not just for urban areas—it is for everyone, and it is central to the growth of our economy,” she said.

The Minister highlighted that expanding digital access is key to achieving Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform the country into an upper-middle-income economy.

She also expressed appreciation to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for supporting rural digital inclusion initiatives, including the distribution of 15 Starlink internet kits to Mudzi.

“We are grateful to His Excellency the President for facilitating the provision of 15 Starlink kits, which will be installed across constituencies and schools in Mudzi. This will significantly improve connectivity and access to information,” she said.

The initiative is being implemented through Video Promotions in collaboration with the Ministry of ICT.

Director Pascal Kwaramba said they were pleased with the continued growth of the programme.

“We are happy with this 8th edition of the Digitalise Zimbabwe ICT Roving Expo. We will make sure that we work towards President Mnangagwa’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind.

We will also ensure that ICT stakeholders come together for one reason—to push the Vision 2030 agenda,” he said.

The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland East Province, Itayi Ndudzo, welcomed the expo, describing it as an important platform that connects communities with service providers.

“This expo gives people the opportunity to meet service providers and understand the technologies available to them.

Coming soon after the launch of the national Artificial Intelligence strategy, it shows that Zimbabwe is on the right track,” he said.

Traditional leadership also applauded the initiative, with Chief Thomas Nechombo expressing gratitude for the installation of Starlink kits in schools.

“We are very happy as a community. Our schools have received Starlink kits, and our children will benefit greatly through improved access to learning and digital tools,” he said.

Ward 14 Councillor, Charles Munyonga, also voiced support for the programme, commending the government’s commitment to rural development.

“This shows that the government is serious about inclusive development. We fully support these initiatives as they empower our communities and create new opportunities,” he said.

The Digitalise Zimbabwe ICT Roving Expo is part of broader efforts to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all communities participate in the country’s economic transformation.

Women in Science, Technology and Innovation Conference 2026 brought together some of Zimbabwe’s most influential minds in science and technology for a night of celebration, recognition, and inspiration, as outstanding women were honoured for their contributions to innovation and national development.

Held as part of the broader WISTI Conference, the gala dinner highlighted the critical role women continue to play in shaping the future of science, technology, and innovation in Zimbabwe.

The event underscored a growing shift toward inclusivity in STEM fields, where women are increasingly breaking barriers and leading transformative change.

Among the key organisations championing this movement is NetOne, which reaffirmed its commitment to empowering women in the digital economy. The company emphasised that women are not merely participants, but leaders and innovators driving technological advancement.

Through targeted investments in skills development, inclusive workplace policies, and equal opportunity initiatives, NetOne continues to cultivate an environment where female talent can thrive across all levels.

A major highlight of the evening was the recognition of Raphael Mushanawani, Group Chief Executive Officer of NetOne, who received a prestigious Honours Award for his exceptional leadership.

His recognition reflects a sustained commitment to advancing innovation, promoting inclusion, and contributing to Zimbabwe’s broader development agenda.

Under Mushanawani’s stewardship, NetOne has strengthened its position as a key digital enabler, expanding network connectivity and supporting local innovation ecosystems.

The organisation has also played a pivotal role in creating platforms that empower women and young people to actively participate in the digital economy.

The achievements celebrated at WISTI 2026 align closely with the country’s Vision 2030 aspirations, which aim to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy.

By investing in digital infrastructure and human capital, institutions like NetOne are helping to build a resilient, inclusive, and innovation-driven future.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has pledged US$1 million towards the rehabilitation of Ingutsheni Central Hospital, reinforcing Government efforts to modernise Zimbabwe’s largest mental health institution.

Speaking during a fundraising event held at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) grounds on Friday, the President announced that the funds would be made available immediately, alongside additional material support for the hospital.

“As the President, I am availing US$1 million and the farm implements requested with immediate effect. In addition, vehicles that need to be repaired should be done at the expense of the President’s Office,” he said.

The fundraising initiative, spearheaded by the Office of Vice President Colonel (Rtd) Dr Kembo Campbell Dugish Mohadi in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Child Care, aims to raise US$5 million for the refurbishment of Ingutsheni Central Hospital and its Drug Rehabilitation Centre.

Vice President Mohadi pledged US$100 000 towards the cause, while several institutions, corporates and individuals also made contributions during the event.

Among the tertiary institutions, the University of Zimbabwe donated US$15 000, the National University of Science and Technology pledged US$15 000, and Great Zimbabwe University contributed US$10 000.

Corporate and organisational pledges included US$20 000 from Safeway Technology, US$10 000 from the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), and US$10 000 from the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) Corporate Social Responsibility Fund.

United Bulawayo Hospitals contributed US$10 000, while the Grain Millers Association committed to providing staple food supplies for the hospital until the same period next year.

Businessman Dr Kudakwashe Tagwireyi pledged US$350 000, with Obey Chimuka contributing US$150 000. Finance Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube made a personal donation of US$20 000, while the MHMK Foundation, led by George Manyere, pledged US$20 000.

ZANU PF donated US$100 000, and the Ministry of Defence contributed US$5 000.

Additional support came in various forms, including psycho-social services and human resources from Arise and Shine Community Development, soap and towels from Body Builders for ED, and a tonne of rice alongside a chatbot system for hospital use from Nketa legislator Honourable Mavunga.

Denver Investment pledged a beast for relish as well as a stand donation valued at US$10 000 to be raffled, while the Title Deeds for ED initiative committed scholarships for five children of Ingutsheni patients under an early childhood development programme.

Organisers confirmed that a total of US$2 152 800 has been raised so far towards the US$5 million target.

The rehabilitation programme is expected to improve infrastructure, expand rehabilitation services and enhance mental health care delivery at Ingutsheni Central Hospital, which has served Zimbabweans for more than a century.