Strategic Plan 2026–2030

Foreword

As we stand on the threshold of a new era defined by rapid technological advancement, it is imperative that we recognize the pivotal role that Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) play in driving socio-economic development and transformation. Zimbabwe, like many nations around the globe, understands that those who have embraced the potential of ICTs - through strategic policy formulation, implementation and investment - have reaped significant rewards for their economies and their citizens.
Our nation is endowed with unique advantages - a high literacy rate, a robust infrastructure network encompassing communication, energy and transportation, as well as a geographical location and favorable climatic conditions that position us to leapfrog ahead of many others, particularly within Africa. However, we must act decisively to harness these strengths in an age marked by the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the rise of fifth-generation technologies. Countries that fail to embrace these innovations risk falling behind and becoming overshadowed by those who invest in and adopt new technologies.
The Government of the Republic of Zimbabwe is resolutely committed to enhancing ICTs as cross-cutting enablers across all sectors of our economy and society. Yet, we acknowledge that significant challenges remain. Issues such as inadequate infrastructure, high costs of access to ICT devices and internet services and interoperability hurdles must be addressed to realize our vision.
To systematically leverage ICTs for national development, we are embarking on a journey to create an inclusive framework that articulates how Zimbabwe will develop, deploy and manage ICTs across all sectors. This Strategic Plan for the period 2026 to 2030 is designed to align with other key policy documents, including the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan. Together, these initiatives will drive our efforts toward achieving our National Vision where we resolve to transition ‘towards a prosperous and empowered upper-middle income society by 2030’.
The Strategic Plan focuses on integrated sector-specific pillars such as Smart Government, Smart Cities, Smart Agriculture, Smart Education, Smart Transport, Smart Health, Smart Tourism and Smart Mining. These pillars are underpinned by essential platforms that include:
- Policy, Regulation and Standards;
- Secure and Shared Infrastructure;
- Partnerships;
- Skills Development, Capacity Building and Content Creation; and
- Security of Networks and Services.
Coordination in the adoption, development and deployment of ICT-driven solutions will be managed under the auspices of the Ministry of Information Communication Technologies, Postal and Courier Services. This approach will eliminate duplication of functions and resource allocation while ensuring optimal utilization of both financial and human resources across Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
As we strive toward becoming ‘an upper-middle income society by 2030’, it is crucial that we adopt a transformative approach to fully exploit the potential of ICTs. By developing appropriate and cost-effective applications, we can enhance productivity and competitiveness as we transition towards a knowledge-based and inclusive Smart Society.
This Strategic Plan represents a comprehensive and forward-thinking blueprint for how Zimbabwe can harness the power of ICTs for socio-economic advancement. It positions our Ministry as the focal point for all ICT projects and programs in Zimbabwe, guiding us toward a brighter future.
Together, let us embrace this journey towards innovation and development that will shape the destiny of our nation.

Executive Summary

Recognizing the pivotal role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in shaping a knowledge-based, smart and digitally inclusive society, the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services has developed a comprehensive Strategic Plan for 2026 to 2030. This plan is designed to chart the future trajectory of ICTs in Zimbabwe, aligning with national aspirations and acknowledging the critical role these technologies play in redefining development across all economic sectors.
The Strategic Plan is inspired by Zimbabwe’s National Vision 2030, which aims for ‘a prosperous and empowered Upper Middle-Income society’, the National Development Strategy 2 (2026 - 2030), the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan, as well as the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, which refers to attainment of a digital economy by 2030. The plan underscores the importance of digital technologies as essential enablers for Government operations, business innovation and citizen engagement. By leveraging these technologies, the plan aims to unlock significant opportunities for enhancing various aspects of life in Zimbabwe.
At the core of this Strategic Plan is the commitment to digital transformation. The Ministry seeks to implement a range of programs and projects designed to equip citizens with the skills and tools necessary to harness ICTs effectively. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for all Zimbabweans by facilitating access to digital resources and fostering an environment conducive to innovation and growth.
The vision for a digital economy extends beyond mere technological advancement; it emphasizes inclusivity through targeted ICT programs that stimulate economic development. The Strategic Plan is built on the foundation of ensuring that no one and no place is left behind in the country’s digital revolution. By promoting equitable access to ICT services and solutions, the Ministry aims to drive sustainable growth and enhance the overall economic landscape of Zimbabwe.
To achieve these ambitious goals, the Strategic Plan advocates for robust collaboration between Public and Private Sectors. By fostering Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), the Ministry aims to mobilize resources and expertise necessary for implementing prioritized programs and projects. This collaborative approach will not only accelerate progress towards achieving the National Vision 2030 but also ensure that the Ministry fulfills its mandate effectively.
The Ministry’s 2026 to 2030 Strategic Plan therefore represents a significant step towards transforming Zimbabwe into a self-sustaining economic powerhouse in Africa and beyond. By embracing digital technologies and fostering an inclusive approach to ICT development, the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services is committed to creating a vibrant digital economy that empowers citizens and stimulates national growth. Through this strategic roadmap, Zimbabwe can look forward to a future where ICTs are integral to every facet of life, driving prosperity and enhancing the well-being of all its citizens

Introduction

The Strategic Plan for 2026 to 2030 outlines a comprehensive roadmap for the advancement of Information Communication Technology (ICT) and Postal and Courier Services in Zimbabwe. This plan serves as a pivotal guide for redefining national development within the socio-economic landscape. Drawing inspiration from Zimbabwe’s National Vision 2030, which envisions ‘a prosperous and empowered Upper-Middle Income society’, as well as the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan, this strategic initiative aims to position ICT as a cornerstone of national progress. In today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, ICTs have emerged as essential enablers for Government operations, business innovation and individual empowerment. The transformative potential of digital technologies presents vast opportunities across various sectors, necessitating a collective adaptation to this new reality. The Strategic Plan addresses the urgent need for stakeholders - including Government Entities, Private Sector Organizations, Technical Community, Civil Society Organizations, Informal Sector Organizations (Small Medium and Micro Enterprises), Academia and Citizens (including Women, Men, Girls and Boys) - to embrace digital transformation, ensuring that Zimbabwe capitalizes on the benefits of technological advancements.
Central to this plan is the commitment to enhance Zimbabwean citizens' capabilities through targeted ICT initiatives. By implementing a diverse range of programs and projects, the Ministry aims to empower individuals with the skills and resources necessary to leverage ICTs effectively. This empowerment is expected to lead to improved quality of life, fostering economic growth and social inclusion. The Strategic Plan recognizes that universal access to ICT services is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals and enhancing the overall well-being of the population.
The National Development Strategy 2 [NDS2] (January 2026 to December 2030) reinforces the significance of ICTs as key drivers of economic development. By embedding ICT objectives within all national strategies, the NDS2 aims to ensure that every citizen has access to digital resources by 2030. This aligns with the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which advocate for the establishment of ‘a digital economy’ and eventually, ‘an information society’, as a fundamental component of global development efforts. The Ministry's Strategic Plan is thus positioned as an essential contributor to achieving these international commitments. To realize these ambitious goals, collaboration among public and private sectors is paramount. The Strategic Plan emphasizes the importance of fostering Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to mobilize resources and expertise required for effective implementation. By leveraging the strengths of both sectors, Zimbabwe can accelerate progress toward its vision of a digitally inclusive society. This collaborative approach will not only enhance service delivery but also stimulate innovation and economic growth.
The Ministry’s 2026 to 2030 Strategic Plan therefore represents a transformative vision for Zimbabwe's ICT landscape. By prioritizing digital technologies and fostering an inclusive approach to development, the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services is dedicated to creating a vibrant digital economy that empowers citizens and drives national prosperity. Through this strategic roadmap, Zimbabwe is poised to embrace the future, where ICTs play an integral role in enhancing every aspect of life and contributing to the nation's sustainable development journey.

Vision and mission

Vision: A connected knowledge-based society with secure Information Communication Technology systems by 2030

Mission: To provide high-quality ICT facilities and services that are modern, accessible and affordable, thereby improving the standard of life for Zimbabweans.

National Vision: Towards a Prosperous and Empowered Upper Middle-Income Society by 2030

Mandate: The Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Mandate, 2019