Staff Reporter
In a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusive development, the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Postal and Courier Services, in collaboration with the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz), distributed 415 computers to 39 rural district councils (RDCs) across the country.
The handover ceremony took place at Potraz headquarters yesterday, marking a milestone in the Government’s drive to modernise rural governance and enhance service delivery.
Speaking at the event, ICT Minister Dr. Tatenda Mavetera reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to equipping rural communities with tools to embrace technological advancements.
“The handover of ICT equipment to 39 rural district councils is a significant step towards enhancing governance and service delivery in Zimbabwe’s rural areas. This initiative reflects our commitment to improving connectivity and access to information, ensuring that rural district councils can operate more efficiently,” Dr. Mavetera stated.
She added that the donation aligns with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s “Whole-of-Government Approach,” emphasising a united effort to uplift citizens in rural areas. The program also supports Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 goal of decentralised development and equitable access to resources.
Dr. Mavetera highlighted the ministry’s collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works, which ensures that no council is left behind.
She noted that this donation is part of the broader e-Government program, spearheaded by the Universal Services Fund (USF), to integrate ICT into Government operations for improved service delivery and community engagement.
Plans are underway to extend similar donations to the remaining 21 RDCs in the coming months, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to equitable technological access across the nation.
Receiving the donation on behalf of the RDCs, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Engineer Benjamin Kabikira, expressed gratitude for the Government’s continued support in modernising rural operations.
“These computers will enable our rural district councils to streamline their operations, improve service delivery, and engage more effectively with the communities they serve. This support is a clear indication of the government’s dedication to ensuring that local authorities, as an essential tier of governance, are equipped to fulfill their mandates effectively,” Eng. Kabikira said.
He urged the leadership of RDCs to fully utilise the new equipment and prioritise training where necessary to maximise its benefits.
The donation underscores Government’s broader agenda to modernise and digitise local governance in line with the Call-to-Action Blueprint and Vision 2030.
By integrating ICT tools into rural councils, Government aims to foster efficiency and inclusivity, ensuring rural areas are not left behind in the digital era.
