Ministry gives NPA 20 laptops
AN accelerated programme to continue electrification in rural areas under a US$4,2 million scheme that started last year, has brought joy to some rural communities as more people now have access to electricity in line with President Mnangagwa’s mantra of leaving no one and no place behind.
The programme is being implemented by the Rural Electrification Fund, formed by Government in 2002, and has electrified 10 000 public institutions such as schools and clinics since then.
In an interview yesterday, REF public relations and marketing executive Mr Johannes Nyamayedenga said they were intensifying the rural electrification programme to ensure everyone in rural Zimbabwe had access to electricity.
The National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) identified the provision of reliable and low-cost energy access as Government’s top priority, particularly in light of the huge investments in sectors such as mining, agriculture, tourism and manufacturing.
Zimbabwe’s electricity penetration rate is at 41 percent, with up to 80 percent of people in rural areas not having access to electricity.
As a result, the Rural Electrification Fund (REF) has been assigned to ensure it broadens electricity access in rural areas for the benefit of those living there, including learners who have to use ICT gadgets like their urban counterparts.
Said Mr Nyamayedenga: “We have embarked on a massive solar programme and since inception, we have extended the grid network to over 10 000 public institutions countrywide, transforming the lives of thousands of people.”
Some of the public institutions that have benefitted from the programme include schools, rural health centres, Government extension offices, police posts, the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency and Chief ’s homesteads.
Mr Nyamayedenga said Chief ’s homesteads were classified as public institutions since many people go there seeking a number of services including justice.
“We electrify all these (public institutions) on 100 percent Government subsidy so no one pays; they only pay for bills at the end of the month and the money is used to rehabilitate the solar infrastructure. on-the-go support, empowering customers to effortlessly access the coverage they need”.
Mr Nyabadza said in a market tainted by insurance touts and unregistered players, the DIV stood as a beacon of trust, bringing the unwavering reassurance and credibility of the renowned NicozDiamond brand to underserved markets.
“Our mobile contact centre is dedicated to ensuring that customers in these areas can access reliable and legitimate insurance services backed by a trusted name,” he said.
Mr Nyabadza said from a technological perspective, the DIV operated as an autonomous and fully integrated unit, showcasing its remarkable capabilities even in the most remote areas.
“With real-time connectivity to our secure network, it ensures seamless communication and accessibility while prioritising robust security measures. Powered by sustainable solar energy, the DIV exemplifies our commitment to environmental consciousness, supported by reliable backup systems that guarantee uninterrupted service.
“This innovation’s technological prowess, combined with its sustainable and secure features, establishes it as a cutting-edge solution that ensures efficient and protected insurance services,” he said.
“It brought expert advice and support directly to the customers’ fingertips. Regardless of their location, whether in residential areas, bustling business districts, lively informal markets, or vibrant public events, the DIV stands as a reliable and accessible hub for comprehensive insurance products and services.
“With its presence in these diverse settings, it revolutionises accessibility, making insurance expertise readily available like never before,” Mr Nyabadza said.
At the heart of their customer-centric approach, NicozDiamond understood the complexities and frustrations that come with insurance claims.
“Our highly trained staff are available every step of the way, guiding customers through the necessary procedures, promptly addressing their concerns, and providing clear and timely updates.
“With the on-site assistance, we aim to alleviate the stress associated with claims, offering our customers peace of mind during challenging times”.
“So, we are saying we have a mandate to provide energy in the whole rural Zimbabwe by 2030, and to achieve that we should embrace renewable energy because grid (electricity) alone cannot help us achieve our mandate by 2030,” said Mr Nyamayedenga.
The solar projects were being implemented under two schemes for institutional and community solar projects, in all 10 provinces.
Institutional solar projects are standalone mini-grid electricity projects whereby two schools including teachers’ houses, a clinic and potentially a borehole, would be connected.
The electricity could be used to cook, iron and power radios and television sets.
All the projects started last year and most of them have been completed.
Once completed, communities and residents of public institutions can use water pumped from boreholes to start garden projects while others can use the electricity to embark on self-help projects such as welding, and improve their living standards.
Some of the completed projects include the Chikwizi Primary School and clinic project where there is a 15kW in Chipinge and the 10kW at Nyamusosa Clinic in Makoni District.
In Buhera, there is the 15kW at Matsakanure Secondary School that has been completed while in Makonde there is the 20kW at Runene Primary School project.
Some of the community projects that have been completed while others are work in progress are the Hakwata project started in Chipinge District, where a 220kW solar photovoltaic system has been installed and completed.
Muzarabani District has the Chiwenga project where a 45kW mini-grid has been installed and services Chiwenga primary and secondary schools, a clinic, business centre and homestead.
In Uzumba Maramba Pfungwe, there is the Chiwore 60kW, Hurungwe has the Dete 120kW project for Dete primary and secondary, a clinic, business centre and homesteads.
Gutu District has the Soti Source where 160 kW has been installed, while Beitbridge has the 120kW Chitulipasi Community mini-grid.
In the Gokwe North, there is the 96 kW Gandavaroyi project, among many others across the country.
THE digital transformation of society along with cyber security are crucial towards the attainment of an upper middle class status through Vision 2030, Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Minister Tatenda Mavetera said yesterday.
Speaking during the handover of 20 laptops to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) at Harare Magistrates Court, Minister Mavetera said the laptops would help the authority to equip its staff with digital skills.
“The provision of these laptops underscores the importance placed on equipping prosecutors with essential digital skills, crucial for navigating Zimbabwe’s transition into a full digital economy.
“The Government is committed to leaving no one behind in the advancement of technological capabilities in all sectors.
“This event takes place against the backdrop of President Mnangagwa’s launch of three national ICT policies in Somabhula on March 7, 2024, emphasising the government’s commitment to advancing technological capabilities across various sectors,” she said.
Minister Mavetera said the computers will help the NPA’s ability to handle digitally driven cases effectively.
“These devices will enable prosecutors to leverage technology in case management, research, communication, and information sharing, thereby enhancing their overall productivity and response time regarding digital-related crimes,” she said.
The Minister added that the handover of gadgets to the NPA would allow prosecutors to access resources such as the integrated electronic case management system.
“Access to such online resources undoubtedly requires the NPA to have access to affordable and efficient internet connectivity. This increased ease of access is meant to benefit the citizenry and ensure that they have access to timely and prompt justice.”
Minister Mavetera advised telecommunications operators to make sure that connectivity is affordable and efficient.
“It is therefore paramount for our telecommunications operators to ensure that connectivity is affordable and efficient. I want to also appeal to our prosecutors and other consumers of telecommunications services to use connectivity responsibly,” she said.
Collaboration between different government entities was pivotal for building resilient institutions capable of withstanding cybersecurity threats.
“As Zimbabwe progresses towards greater technological advancements underpinned by robust legislative frameworks such as the Cyber and Data Protection Act, it becomes paramount that all stakeholders work together synergistically towards building resilient institutional capacities capable of withstanding evolving cyber threats securely,” she said.
Speaking at the same event, the Minister of Justice, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs, Ziyambi Ziyambi, said the initiatives would improve efficiency in technological advancement.
“These computers will help NAPAZ’s internal and external communication systems improve efficiency and effectiveness, and this will enable us to reach our development goal of 2030.
“We will adapt to the evolving landscape, develop best practices, and ultimately serve the public effectively and efficiently,” he said. Prosecutor-General Justice Loice Matanda Moyo applauded the initiatives, saying the authority’s ICT operations would be more efficient.
She said the computers will go a long way towards achieving the NDS1 goals.
“We are confident that the NAPAZ will leverage the support that it has received from the Ministry of ICT to achieve our justice sector and national goals aligned with NDS1 and SDG 16 targets,” Justice Matanda-Moyo said.