In a significant move toward modernising Zimbabwe’s tourism sector, and the (ZTA) have formally signed a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating digital transformation under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
The collaboration embodies the Government’s Whole-of-Government approach, aligning infrastructure, innovation, and service delivery to unlock tourism’s full economic potential while positioning Zimbabwe as a digitally connected global destination.
Representing the Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Permanent Secretary reaffirmed Government’s commitment to leveraging technology across all sectors.
The partnership, she noted, is rooted in the national vision spearheaded by President , whose drive toward Vision 2030 continues to prioritise innovation and inclusive growth.
The signing ceremony, officiated by ZTA CEO and NetOne General Manager representing Group CEO —marked more than a formal agreement; it signalled a strategic shift toward smart tourism.
In welcoming remarks delivered on behalf of the NetOne Board, Mrs Nyasha Nyambuya, NetOne’s Chief Finance Officer, emphasised the broader significance of the partnership.
“We gather not merely to formalise a partnership between NetOne and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, but to affirm a shared vision—one that recognises collaboration, innovation, and digital transformation as key drivers of national development.” she said.
The remarks further highlighted how the initiative aligns with NDS2 priorities:
“By enhancing connectivity, digitising tourism processes, and enabling real-time data systems, we are unlocking new levels of efficiency, transparency, and global competitiveness for Zimbabwe’s tourism sector.” she added.
At the heart of the partnership is a clear mandate: expanding network coverage across key tourism destinations. NetOne will lead efforts to ensure seamless connectivity, enabling improved visitor experiences and the rollout of smart digital services across the tourism value chain.
Speaking on behalf of the CEO, Mr Machiva , NetOne’s General Manager of Financial Services , underscored NetOne’s evolving role.
“As NetOne, we see ourselves not merely as a telecommunications provider, but as a national enabler, a digital partner, and a key pillar in Zimbabwe’s transformation journey.” he said.
He added that connectivity will serve as the backbone of a more competitive tourism sector.
“Our role is to ensure that connectivity becomes the backbone upon which sectors such as tourism continue to thrive and evolve.”he said.
The partnership extends beyond infrastructure development into institutional capacity building. NetOne has equipped the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority with laptops and printers, enabling faster, more efficient operations and supporting the transition to fully digitised systems.
This move is expected to modernise ZTA’s inspectorate functions, shifting from manual processes to real-time digital systems for improved regulatory efficiency.
“The provision of ICT tools, secure connectivity, and integrated digital platforms will allow for real-time data collection, improved regulatory efficiency, and enhanced service delivery across the country.” he added.
The collaboration opens doors to smart tourism solutions, digital marketing innovation, and data driven insights critical components in today’s competitive global travel market.
It also reinforces Zimbabwe’s ambition to become a modern, tech-enabled destination while ensuring inclusive development across communities.
In closing, NetOne reaffirmed its broader mission “This partnership is a clear demonstration of what can be achieved through a whole-of-government approach… ensuring that no place and no one is left behind.”
As Zimbabwe continues its digital transformation journey, the NetOne and ZTA partnership stands as a powerful example of how coordinated government efforts and strategic innovation can drive sectoral growth.
