Research, development crucial in ICT: Minister
MINISTER of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Postal and Courier Services, Dr Tatenda Mavetera, has urged the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) to leverage partnerships and synergies to strengthen its research and development efforts, with the aim of growing the ICT sector.
The minister made the remarks in Bulawayo yesterday, during the official opening of the Potraz Annual Strategic Planning and Review Workshop.
She highlighted that Potraz plays a vital role in the digitisation of the economy, as it is responsible for creating an enabling regulatory framework that promotes and attracts investment in the ICT sector, encourages the deployment of new and emerging technologies, and fosters ICT innovation.
“Potraz, as our experts, must anticipate new technologies and be agile enough to quickly propose appropriate policy frameworks for the deployment of these technologies,” said Dr Mavetera.
“To provide thought leadership in the ICT sector, Potraz must strengthen its research and development capabilities.”
Dr Mavetera further emphasised that where Potraz lacks sufficient internal capacity for research and development, it should enter into partnerships with research institutions that can either provide facilities or conduct the research on its behalf.
She underscored that research and development are crucial for achieving the authority’s objectives and ensuring the sector’s growth.
Dr Mavetera also urged Potraz to make significant efforts to enhance the operations of the Data Protection Authority.
“It is essential to clearly explain the Cyber and Data Protection Act to the public. We need to promote a comprehensive understanding of the Data Protection Regulations and ensure compliance,” she said.
Additionally, she reiterated that whatever Potraz does, the regulator must work toward the achievement of President Mnangagwa’s vision for the nation’s digitisation and inclusivity, ensuring that no one and no place is left behind in terms of connectivity.
The week-long strategic planning workshop aims to take stock of Potraz’s achievements in 2024 and plan for 2025.
In his address, Potraz board chairman Mr Tafadzwa Zvobgo stated the board expects management to prioritise the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in 2025, ensuring that regulatory processes, service offerings, and internal operations are enhanced by AI.
Mr Zvobgo highlighted that AI presents enormous potential for improving network optimisation, reducing operational costs, and personalising services for customers in the telecommunications sector.
In his welcome remarks, Potraz director-general Dr Gift Machengete said: “As we plan for 2025, I do not want us to merely maintain our current trajectory of good performance; we must exceed it with exceptional and unprecedented achievements.”
“Our strategies must be bold and forward-thinking. We need fresh ideas that drive innovation and efficiency, rather than simply re-arranging old targets. Our focus should be on continuous improvement, staying ahead of the curve in this rapidly changing sector.” —chronicle
