The Cabinet announced today the approval of the new ICT strategy plan for Zimbabwe, expected to be launched at the end of next month, according to Zim government’s publication The Herald.
ICT Minister, Nelson Chamisa, commented that the approved plan would be formally presented to the country’s main political parties figures President Mugabe, Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai and his deputy Arthur Mutambara before being unveiled to the public.
“The plan has been approved by Cabinet and will run from now to 2015. It is either going to be launched at the end of this month or February when the principals are back”, said Minister Chamisa, adding that the plan will revolutionize the local ICT industry.
Among the issues addressed are licencing, number portability, infrastructure, mobile phone security, digital security, e-governance, e-education and e-health, as well as the overall growth perspectives for the ICT sector to “catch up” with other countries on the continent and the world.
The plan aims bridging the technology gap among Zimbabwe and its African neighbours by providing modern technology, becoming a hub of softwareand hardware development and establishing a consultative body to advise ICT Minister on the available policies.
Since the beginning of 2009, Zimbabwe has seen a notable progress in the accessibility of mobile phones and Internet service, estimated now at 24% comparing to an initial 10%. Fixed telecommunication accessibility is still a challenge, with the sole provided, Tel-One, overwhelmed by demand.
The government stated that it would work closely with the private sector to ensure the good implementation of the ICT plan in changing the face of the industry in Zimbabwe.
I wonder what “telecommunication accessibility” rated at 24% here means… does it mean penetration? what is the source for this rating?
This is a very good move for Zimbabwe.
Good stuff. Young adventurous brains coming to the party. Considering Zim’s high literacy rate, Software development definitely be Zim’s strong hold.