Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday launched the country’s five-year National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy in Harare, aimed at promoting socio-economic growth and modernising key sectors of the economy.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, President Mnangagwa said the strategy, which will run from 2026 to 2030, is expected to unlock opportunities in key sectors such as agriculture, mining, healthcare, finance and education.

“The strategy is a declaration of our collective readiness for the transformative impact of AI,” said President Mnangagwa. “It is a bold response to the disruptive effects of the ever-evolving technological era.”

He said the adoption of artificial intelligence would help Zimbabwe harness innovation and accelerate development across the country.

President Mnangagwa also called for increased investment in digital infrastructure to support the growth of emerging technologies.

“We remain committed to ensuring that the use of AI is human-centric, transparent and free from bias,” he said. “The protection of our national interests as well as the dignity of all Zimbabweans remains central to the legal parameters we are putting in place.”

The President also welcomed the development of locally designed AI-powered solutions that are helping to address challenges in Zimbabwe.

He further urged Parliament to speed up the development of laws aimed at improving online safety, particularly those that protect children and minors from the harmful effects of social media and other digital platforms.

“We must work together to ensure that the benefits of AI impact every village, ward, district, town and city,” President Mnangagwa said. “This new age of AI shall equally be conquered and leveraged to quicken socio-economic growth and a higher standard of living for our people.” 🚀💻