GOVERNMENT has, reaffirmed its commitment to bridging the digital divide, emphasizing technology as a fundamental right for all citizens as seen on Friday 5 September in Msala Gokwe.
The drive to leave no Zimbabwean behind in the digital age gained renewed momentum as the Ministry of Information Communications Technology, Postal and Courier Services has set the tone for a new era of connectivity, inclusion, and empowerment. Technology is no longer a privilege for the few, but a right for every citizen, and the Government will ensure that right is realised.
Addressing the media, ICTPCS Minister Tatenda Mavetera reminded the nation of its collective responsibility to transform vision into reality under the National Development Strategy 1 and the path toward NDS2.
“Connectivity is no longer a privilege. It is a necessity, as essential as roads, water, or electricity. Through initiatives like the Digitalise Zimbabwe Expo and the work of partners such as NetOne, ICT is being brought to the doorstep of every Zimbabwean, ensuring no community is left behind
“Digital technology and connectivity are transforming the way we live, work, and interact.
“In our community, embracing these tools can open doors to new opportunities, enhance access to information and services, and foster connections that bridge distances,” she said to resounding applause.
With conviction and clear governmental leadership, she underscored the Ministry’s role in Zimbabwe’s digital transformation, reflecting President Mnangagwa’s emphasis on people-driven development “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo.”
Minister Owen ‘Mudha’ Ncube, responsible for Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution, welcomed the Ministry’s initiatives targeting Gokwe, acknowledging the importance of extending digital reach to previously marginalized areas.”
“We welcome this gesture in Msala. This proves no one and no place should left behind.
“The alliance between the Ministry of ICT and NetOne illustrates the power of translating national objectives into impactful initiatives that uplift and empower communities” he said, affirming that ICT policy is reshaping livelihoods across the province.
NetOne, through its Group Chief Executive Officer Engineer Raphael Mushanawani, embraced this national initiative, casting itself as an instrumental partner in realizing the Government’s digital ambitions.”
“We take pride in answering the Ministry’s call to action. This development is not just about infrastructure; it is about empowerment, dignity, and opportunity.
NetOne does not only connect phones; we connect lives, families, and futures,” he said, highlighting the company’s role in translating policy into tangible impact.
Through NetOne’s initiatives, rural schools in Msala have been equipped with computers, ensuring children in remote communities can access the same knowledge as their peers in urban centres. Solarised boreholes, drip irrigation systems, and nutritional gardens stand as visible proof that ICT development under the Ministry’s guidance is intertwined with food security, health, and sustainable livelihoods.
As Mushanawani remarked with characteristic humor, “Data bundles matter, but sadza matters more. By addressing both, we enable technology to enrich lives holisticall,” he said.
The Digitalise Zimbabwe Roving ICT Expo, launched under the Ministry’s stewardship, further reinforced the scale of the vision. With its ambitious goal to train 1.5 million coders, deploy digitrucks to underserved communities, expand community Wi-Fi zones, and establish Digital Ambassadors nationwide, the Expo is more than a programme — it is a movement that ensures technology works for every citizen.
Borrowing from African wisdom, Minister Mavetera reminded the nation, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
The narrative of Msala was less about a single project and more about policy finding expression through action. With the Ministry of ICT steering and NetOne implementing, it showed collaborations between government and state-owned companies are pivotal to driving change.
Places like Msala, Binga, Mutoko, Plumtree tell a story of the Ministry’s outreach bearing fruit. Farmers reach markets, students global resources, health workers digital care – all showcasing policy drive and corporate delivery partnering effectively. This blend of efforts will define Zimbabwe’s digital leap toward Vision 2030.
NetOne, aligning with the Ministry’s vision, has emerged as a key partner in weaving a connected tapestry for Zimbabwe, ensuring inclusivity across communities. The impetus from Msala echoed a national narrative: Zimbabwe’s ascent is an ascent of all its communities.”
