The Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Tatenda Mavetera, has called for increased participation of women in the technology sector, saying they will play a key role in shaping Zimbabwe’s upcoming National artificial intelligence strategy.
Speaking at the Women in ICT Zimbabwe Conference held at the Harare International Conference Centre in Harare, yesterday, Hon Mavetera said women must be actively involved in the country’s digital transformation agenda.
She revealed that the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy is expected to be launched by Emmerson Mnangagwa and will position Zimbabwe to take advantage of emerging technologies.
“The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy that will soon be launched by His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, will guide Zimbabwe’s journey into the AI era,” said Hon Mavetera.
“We want women to be part of this journey. They must not only participate but also lead in innovation, development and decision-making within the ICT sector.”
Hon Mavetera expressed concern that women remain under-represented in the technology industry.
“Currently, women make up less than 30 percent of the ICT workforce. This shows that there is still a significant gap that we must address if we are to build an inclusive digital economy,” she said.
She urged young women and girls to take advantage of Government programmes designed to equip them with digital and technological skills.
“I encourage young women to participate in programmes such as the 1.5 Million Coders Programme, which is aimed at training Zimbabweans in coding and software development,” she said.
“These initiatives are meant to ensure that our young people are not left behind in the rapidly evolving digital world.”
The minister also highlighted other initiatives being implemented by the Government, including the Cyberus Programme and the Digital Ambassadors Programme, which are focused on strengthening cybersecurity awareness and improving digital literacy across communities.
“Our goal is to equip young people with digital and cybersecurity skills so that they can drive innovation and contribute meaningfully to Zimbabwe’s technological development,” Hon Mavetera said.
She added that empowering women in ICT will not only promote gender equality but also accelerate national development.
“When women are empowered with digital skills, they become innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders who can transform communities and contribute to economic growth,” she said.
The conference brought together policymakers, technology experts, entrepreneurs and students to discuss ways of increasing women’s participation in ICT and ensuring they play a meaningful role in shaping Zimbabwe’s digital future.
