GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed excellence, innovation and digital transformation as key national priorities insisting that strengthened performance across public institutions and the ICT sector was essential for fast-tracking Vision 2030.
This emerged in Harare during the 2025 ICT Secretary’s Awards, where senior officials said the nation will continue driving policies that expand digital infrastructure, improve technological skills and promote responsible innovation.
Representing Vice President Dr Kembo Mohadi, Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Minister, Tino Machakaire, said Government expects all institutions to commit to high standards in service delivery and technological advancement.
“Excellence is a continuous journey of improvement and innovation,” he said.
“Excellence in ICT enhances digital infrastructure, expands inclusivity and equips citizens and businesses to thrive in a digital world.”
VP Mohadi said emerging technologies must remain ethical and beneficial, particularly in areas such as privacy and artificial intelligence.
“When we commit to a culture of excellence, we uplift not only ourselves, but our communities and the nation.”
ICT, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera said digital transformation has accelerated significantly, making ICT “a crucial pillar” of Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 agenda.
She said major developments including the National Accreditation Initiative for AI adoption, the Digital Skills and Methods Programme, the US$1,5 million youth skills quota project expanded cyber security training and the successful telemedicine trial that has begun improving access to healthcare services.
“These achievements reflect a coordinated effort between Government and private sector partners. This collaboration has helped us record an 8,1 percent rise in national internet connectivity.”
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Province Charles Tawengwa said ICT innovation is now a critical driver of national development and warned that countries slow to digitise risk being left behind.
Minister Tawengwa said the awards recognised innovators building tools that bridge digital divides between districts, towns and citizens.
“The innovations recognised tonight ensure that no province, district or citizen is left behind,” he said.
“This celebration is an investment in our technological sovereignty.”
The ceremony also honoured media practitioners contributing to digital literacy and public awareness.
Herald Correspondent Ivan Zhakata was named the ICT Journalist of the Year recognised for his outstanding coverage of Zimbabwe’s digital transformation, technology policy developments and the growing impact of innovation across key sectors.
Minister Tawengwa said the success of such professionals demonstrated the importance of accurate, insightful reporting in shaping national understanding of ICT progress.
“Their work helps communities appreciate the opportunities of the digital age,” he said.
The 2025 ICT Secretary’s Awards celebrated individuals and organisations advancing innovation, digital inclusion, cyber security and technological excellence across the country.-herald
