Zimbabwe Annual Telecommunications Conference 2026: "Beyond Connectivity

The  Zimbabwe Annual Telecommunications Conference 2026, themed "Beyond Connectivity," marked a shift from infrastructure deployment to leveraging AI for economic growth and inclusive transformation. The event highlighted the new National AI Strategy (2026–2030), emphasizing AI-driven agriculture, education, and the transition toward 6G while addressing data sovereignty and cybersecurity.

Keynote speakers emphasized that the era of simply providing infrastructure is over; the focus is now on leveraging technology for intelligent services. The recently launched National AI Strategy (2026–2030) took center stage, with discussions on AI-driven solutions for agriculture, education, and business. 

AI for Inclusive Transformation:

AI is being positioned as a tool for inclusive growth, with applications in crop monitoring, coding education, and business automation.Value-Added Services: Industry leaders are shifting focus from coverage maps to value-added services, making every telco an AI company in waiting.Infrastructure as a Right: The government is committed to ensuring rural areas aren't left behind as urban centers advance towards 6G trials.

The conference showcased Zimbabwe's ambition to code its own version of the digital revolution, with debates on data sovereignty, cybersecurity, and the role of AI in driving economic growth