Zimbabwe has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing regional integration, infrastructure development and cross-border connectivity during the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Cluster Meeting of senior officials responsible for transport, Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), Information and Meteorology being held in Bulawayo.
Welcoming delegates to Bulawayo yesterday, Permanent Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Bulawayo Province, Paul Nyoni said Zimbabwe remained firmly committed to the SADC integration agenda and the pursuit of coordinated regional development initiatives.
“Zimbabwe remains fully committed to the SADC regional integration agenda and recognises the critical role that coordinated infrastructure development initiatives play in driving economic growth and strengthening regional connectivity.
The gathering is an important platform for member states to deepen cooperation in strategic sectors that underpin economic transformation and sustainable development across the region,” Nyoni said.
Director-General of South Africa’s Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, Nonkqubela Thathakahle Jordan-Dyani, in her remarks highlighted the importance of the meeting in advancing regional development through infrastructure modernisation and digital transformation.
“The strategic importance of this meeting lies in its ability to advance regional integration through infrastructure development, digital transformation, enhanced connectivity and sustainable socio-economic growth.
“There is need for member states to maintain strong collaboration and accelerate the implementation of regional programmes aimed at improving connectivity and unlocking economic opportunities for citizens across Southern Africa,” she said.
Jordan-Dyani underscored the importance of policy harmonisation and collective action in achieving the objectives of the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020-2030.
“We must continue to strengthen policy coordination and accelerate the implementation of regional programmes in support of the objectives of the RISDP 2020-2030.
“Sustained investment in transport infrastructure, information systems, meteorological services and digital technologies would be critical in enhancing regional competitiveness and resilience,” she added.
The SADC Cluster Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Transport, ICT, Information and Meteorology meeting forms part of ongoing efforts to implement the RISDP 2020-2030, which seeks to accelerate regional integration, industrialisation, infrastructure development and sustainable economic growth among SADC member states.
