Zimbabwe promotes youth innovation in AI and mining technology

Zimbabwe is intensifying its focus on youth-led technological innovation to drive industrial and digital development. The government has pledged expanded support for young innovators as part of the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy (2026–2030) and the Education 5.0 initiative. Speaking at the World Robot Olympiad Zimbabwe 2026 National Finals in Bulawayo, Deputy Minister of Information, Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Dingumuzi Phuti emphasized that robotics competitions help translate policy into practical solutions with economic value.

In a parallel effort, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the government and the Zimbabwe School of Mines, has launched the MineTech Innovation Challenge Zimbabwe 2026. This initiative invites innovators under the age of 35 to develop AI and digital solutions to address challenges in the mining sector, including safety, productivity, and environmental sustainability. Ten finalists will receive funding and six months of incubation support to refine and pilot their technologies.