Zimbabwe Teams Up with UNESCO to Advance Artificial Intelligence Strategy

Precious Olowookere

Feb 13, 2026 • 1 min read

UNESCO discuss AI and digital governance cooperation Talks align with Smart Zimbabwe 2030 digital plan.

Zimbabwe has strengthened its partnership with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to grow its newly approved National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy (2026–2030). This partnership was made during a meeting between Zimbabwe’s Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Tatenda Mavetera, and UNESCO’s Assistant Director-General for Communication and Information, Tawfik Jelassi.

The discussion was based on implementing AI into Zimbabwe's national development agenda, with particular attention on policy frameworks, public sector digital transformation, digital platform regulation, and the development of digital skills for both adults and children. Minister Mavetera highlighted AI’s revolutionary potential while outlining that news technologies will be crucial to enhancing government processes and promoting economic expansion.

An initiative approved by the Cabinet in late 2025, Zimbabwe's National AI Strategy (2026–2030) presents a five-year plan for applying AI to boost the country's economy while protecting its values and data sovereignty. The basis of this strategy was a result of the June 2025 AI Readiness Assessment Report, which recommended a coordinated national response to emerging technologies.

It is anticipated that UNESCO's involvement will offer technical know-how, capacity building, and international best practices to guarantee Zimbabwe's adoption of AI is sustainable and inclusive. By promoting Zimbabwe as an innovator in digital government in Southern Africa, the partnership also aims to improve regional cooperation.

Policymakers will probably promote cross-sector cooperation, regulatory clarity, and skill development as the partnership with UNESCO develops. These are essential foundations that guarantee AI promotes sustainable growth rather than increasing technological inequities. If the plan is well executed, this program may eventually increase Zimbabwe's efficiency in the regional digital economy.

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