The Smart Zimbabwe Conference and Expo, held from 17–18 July 2025, brought together leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and policymakers under one roof to explore the technologies shaping Zimbabwe’s future. Hosted under the theme “Smart Solutions, Smarter Economy: Integrating Global ICT Trends for Zimbabwe’s Future,” the event marked yet another milestone in advancing the national Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Vision.
Over 18 distinguished speakers graced the conference through keynote presentations and panel discussions, engaging on critical topics such as “The Future of Work: Preparing Zimbabwe for an AI-Driven Economy,” “Smart Health Systems: Innovations for Better Healthcare Delivery,” and “Smart Payments: The Future of Transactions in Zimbabwe.”
The Guest of Honour, Honourable Tatenda Mavetera, Minister of Information Communication Technologies, Postal and Courier Services, delivered a compelling keynote address titled “Empowering Innovation: The Role of Government in Supporting Smart Business Growth in Zimbabwe.” In her presentation, Minister Mavetera underscored the government’s commitment to facilitating the creation of a digital economy through supportive policies, infrastructure investment, and partnerships with the private sector. She highlighted how innovation and collaboration between government, industry, and academia are key to accelerating Zimbabwe’s transition into a knowledge-driven and smart economy.
The Expo section showcased the country’s growing smart technology ecosystem, featuring 30 exhibitors demonstrating a wide range of smart technology projects and products, from drones for smart agriculture and IoT-driven environmental monitoring systems, to Starlink connectivity kits enabling reliable internet access across rural and urban areas.
Throughout the two-day event, participants engaged in vibrant discussions, knowledge sharing, and networking, building valuable partnerships and synergies across sectors. The conference reaffirmed Smart Zimbabwe Business Network’s mission to create platforms that connect innovators, businesses, and policymakers towards achieving Vision 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
As the curtain fell on this year’s edition, one message resonated clearly: Zimbabwe’s smart future is already taking shape. Through innovation, collaboration, and strategic leadership, the nation is steadily positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s emerging smart economy.
