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    Mavetera laments low internet penetration

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    Harare, (New Ziana) – Minister of Information Communication, Technology, Postal and Courier Services, Dr. Tatenda Mavetera lamented the low internet penetration in Africa, which stands at below 50 percent.

    Addressing delegates at the opening of the 6th Privacy Symposium Africa in Harare, she emphasized the urgent need for initiatives to boost internet access across the continent. She said the digital divide exacerbates existing social and economic inequalities compared to other regions.

    “This symposium bids us stakeholders to come up and share brilliant ideas to get to the 100 percent internet penetration we are all clamouring for,” she said.

    “Digital inequalities have emerged as a growing concern in modern societies. These inequalities relate to access to digital technology, internet affordability and connectivity.”

    She added that women, young girls and people with disabilities (PWDs) are among the marginalised groups that often face unique challenges in accessing and benefiting from digital technologies. She said advocated for a more inclusive and equitable digital future by bridging the disparities.

    With that in mind, Mavetera said, the Government of Zimbabwe is prioritising the bridging of the digital divide to ensure that all citizens have access to the opportunities and benefits that technology such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers.

    “In that regard, an AI policy framework has already been completed, and some conversations have been held with players such as MISA Zimbabwe. My Ministry will soon establish a multi-stakeholder AI Committee to act as an advisory body, drawing from the public service, academia, and civil society.

    “Investing in digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and fostering a conducive digital ecosystem can create a more inclusive and prosperous nation that will leave no one behind,” she said.

    Mavetera said the government was aware of the importance of digital literacy in enabling citizens and the general population to navigate the digital world and harness its potential.

    She said this entails a wide range of skills, including basic computer literacy, online safety and security.

    “To promote digital literacy, we must invest in education and training programmes that equip citizens with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital age, starting at the primary level all the way up to the tertiary level.

    “We can reduce the digital divide by empowering individuals with digital literacy skills and creating a more informed and engaged citizenry,” she said.

    She reminded delegates that as people increasingly rely on technology, it is imperative to safeguard personal data and ensure cybersecurity. She said strong data protection laws and regulations are essential to protect individuals’ privacy and prevent cyberattacks. “The rise of the data-driven consumer and the impact of social media and e-commerce are prompting changes to regulatory interventions.

    “As emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, and Blockchain continue to reshape our world, the importance of data protection and privacy becomes even more critical,” she said.

    New Ziana

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