Shamaine Chirimujiri
STAFF WRITER
THE minister of Information Communication, Technology, Postal, and Courier Services, Tatenda Mavetera, donated 39 computers to Rural District Councils (RDCs) yesterday to enhance digital connectivity and expand access to information in rural communities.
The development follows the recent launch of the “Call to Action: No Compromise to Service Delivery” blueprint by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, an effort to modernize local authorities’ operations.
Speaking at the handover ceremony in Harare, Mavetera underscored the importance of local authorities adapting to the rapidly evolving technological landscape to improve service delivery.
She noted that the initiative is in two phases, with 39 RDCs benefiting from the first phase. “By equipping rural district councils with the necessary tools, the government is supporting the decentralisation of power and resources, which is essential for local development.
“This donation is an initiative of the ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, through the Universal Services Fund (USF), where we are implementing the e-government programme to enhance the use of ICTs in government operations, ultimately aiming to improve service delivery and foster greater community engagement,” she said.
“Additionally, there are plans for more equipment donations to other councils, reinforcing the commitment to equitable access to technology across the country.”
Mavetera also stated that training sessions would be conducted to equip local authorities with the necessary digital skills, ensuring they can effectively utilise the gadgets.
“Our goal is to ensure that this ICT equipment is adequately and fully utilised by the local authorities,” she added.
Meanwhile, the deputy minister of Local Government, Benjamin Kabikira, urged local authorities to embrace technology.
“As a ministry, we are happy that this donation of computers will essentially accelerate our modernisation and digitalisation agenda as we pursue Vision 2030 and comply with service delivery by local authorities as outlined by the Call to Action Blueprint,” he said.
