The collaboration is a key milestone in Zimbabwe's digital transformation agenda and reflects the continent's growing momentum towards responsible and inclusive AI governance.
Zimbabwe secures important international support from UNESCO Following high-level consultations between Dr. Beeler Chilm, permanent secretary of the Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier, for the development of the first National AI (AI) strategy and His Excellency Audrey Azurey, Director of the UNESCO.
The meeting, held on the sidelines of the COP15 conference in Victoria Falls, is based on previous engagement at the UNESCO Global Forum on AI Ethics in Bangkok. UNESCO has pledged both financial and technical assistance to support Zimbabwe's AI strategy development process.
Dr. Chirume confirmed that his draft strategy was nearly complete at the first national consultation meeting involving local AI experts scheduled for early August 2025.
“UNESCO's support will enable comprehensive national dialogue around AI and help ensure Zimbabwe develops context-related, ethically sound strategies.”
– Dr. Beeler Chirm, secretary of the ministries of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Zimbabwe.
Her Excellency Audrey Azurey praised Zimbabwe's aggressive steps and reaffirmed UNESCO's commitment to supporting a complete strategic development cycle. The final strategy incorporates a variety of perspectives gathered through a national outreach program supported by UNESCO.
The collaboration is a key milestone in Zimbabwe's digital transformation agenda and reflects the continent's growing momentum towards responsible and inclusive AI governance.
