Business Reporter
Zimbabwe’s telecommunications provider NetOne has entered a strategic partnership with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) in a move aimed at advancing digitalisation across the country’s tourism sector.
The agreement was formalised during a landmark event at Acturus, Harare, attended by government officials, industry leaders, and members of the media.
As part of the partnership, NetOne handed over computer equipment to ZTA, an initiative described by speakers as an investment in the nation’s digital future rather than a simple donation.
Speaking on behalf of NetOne, Chief Finance Officer Nyasha Nyambuya highlighted the partnership as a commitment to “collaboration, innovation, and digital transformation as key drivers of national development.” She acknowledged the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa and First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa for their roles in promoting economic growth and Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage.
NetOne’s General Manager of Financial Services, Joseph Machiva, outlined practical measures under the partnership, including digitising ZTA’s inspectorate functions, providing secure ICT tools and connectivity, and integrating digital platforms for real-time data collection and regulatory efficiency. Additional initiatives include expanded network coverage along key tourism corridors, strategic Wi-Fi deployment, and eTourism SIM solutions for international travellers.
Dr Beaulah Chirume, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services, framed the partnership within Zimbabwe’s broader national development agenda and its recently launched National Artificial Intelligence Strategy. She emphasised the potential for AI-enabled tourism and urged stakeholders to innovate in ways that could set global benchmarks.
The partnership also included the handover of 50 devices from NetOne, with an additional 20,000 contributed by the sector’s regulator. The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry confirmed that the resources would support the digital registration and licensing of tourism facilities, strengthen provincial offices, and improve operational efficiency.
ZTA Board Chairperson Farai Chimba closed the event by emphasising the importance of inter-institutional collaboration and the ongoing commitment to leveraging digital transformation for national development.
The partnership reflects Zimbabwe’s wider ambition to modernise its economy through digitalisation, reduce inefficiencies in public institutions, and enhance the country’s competitiveness as a global tourism destination. With tourism contributing over 15% to national GDP, the integration of ICT tools, AI-ready data infrastructure, and expanded connectivity positions the sector to deliver enhanced services and experiences to both domestic and international visitors.
“Together, we are strengthening a sector that already makes us proud, and positioning it for even greater contributions to national development,” Machiva said on behalf of NetOne Group CEO Raphael Mushanawani.
