Having a cyber law is pivotal
From C1 wired into law.
at balance has to be struck and that’s key. We are headed in the right direction.
KK: How has the ICT sector fared with the advent of the Covid-19 pandemic?
AS: Many enterprises in Zimbabwe have been jump-started to increase the use of emerging technologies. All this is in the backdrop of a new way of doing things that has been demanded from all of us. is is not only for the ICT sector but the demand is being driven by all kinds of industries. e obvious question enterprises are asking themselves is: “How can we meet our goals in the age where there is significantly less physical contact, where there are so many more new dynamic variables, and where operational challenges have doubled owing to the pandemic?” To a great extent, that answer is ICTs. Covid-19 has pretty much scrapped all the four-year plans. It’s about the “now” at this point.
KK: One of your speakers spoke about the significant revenues made by ICT companies since the outbreak. Was this felt across the sector?
AS: Phenomenally, yes! Like I just explained, the driving force is increasing demand. All of a sudden, everyone needed better connectivity. At the office, at home and at school — you name it. ose who were already connected went for better connections to cater for the increased transactional volumes. at’s the best alternative to still get things done. e robust growth of online conferencing platforms such as Zoom says it all. At one time, these were nice-tohaves. But today, who isn’t using virtual meetings? It is not just connectivity. Related services and products in that ecosystem have benefited.
KK: What is your view on infrastructure sharing?
AS: Infrastructure sharing is a strategic imperative. We feel that in many instances, we are losing opportunities through wastage. As the participants from the ministry explained at the conference, the sheer potential being channelled into independently owned and controlled equipment in the telecoms industry can be redirected to focus on delivering better experiences as well as research and development. We agree with this notion, 100%. Without being blind to the fact that in cases where some level of competitive advantage exists, there is also an alternative view that says, “how do we all win by focusing where it really counts?” Infrastructure sharing is not a new concept; it is happening elsewhere, and the gains are massive. I suppose the big issue is around setting up the right framework which fosters collaboration but still promotes open competition.
KK: What are your plans for 2021 as the Computer Society of Zimbabwe?
AS: Our mission is to champion the practical development of ICTs in Zimbabwe. Our country has gone through all the industrial revolutions and the gains are visible. However, more can be done and we need to embed ICTs in all the gainful ways possible.
KK: How exactly do you plan to achieve this? AS: We are of the view that real gains will come in us working hand-in-glove with all entities to harness the potential in ICTs. rough marrying all the moving parts, and aligning with the Smart Zimbabwe campaign being driven by government, our collaborative actions will pay dividends. e big idea is bringing emerging technologies in the spirit of national self-determination through home-grown technologies. Coupled with working with learning institutions and the youths and riding on partnerships locally and internationally, we believe we can build a thriving and competitive nation.