15 January 2026
Zimbabwe’s government has announced ambitious plans to establish a cutting-edge data center and an industrial technology park, marking a significant milestone in the country’s digital development strategy. 
The initiative was unveiled by Hon. Tatenda Mavetera, Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, after discussions with Roy Chimanikire, CEO of Econet Wireless.
The proposed data center will boast enhanced power generation capabilities to support energy-intensive computing needs, a vital step toward fostering artificial intelligence (AI) adoption nationwide. In tandem with this infrastructure development, Zimbabwe is set to launch a national AI strategy later this month, aiming to transform vital sectors such as banking, finance, and industrial production through technological innovation.
In addition to infrastructure projects, the government has introduced measures to lower the costs of doing business, which are expected to make data and voice services more affordable and accessible for both enterprises and consumers. Minister Mavetera highlighted the potential of these initiatives to elevate Zimbabwe’s position in the regional digital economy. “If successful, this initiative could position Zimbabwe as a key player in the regional digital economy,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of robust digital infrastructure in driving economic growth and private sector development.
This move forms part of Zimbabwe’s broader efforts to harness technology for increased economic competitiveness, innovation, and regional integration in the digital age. The government’s focus on building advanced digital infrastructure underscores its commitment to leveraging technology to unlock new economic opportunities and foster sustainable growth.
