THE government has said it is taking “significant tangible measures” to align the country’s Cyber and Data Protection Framework with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) Resolution 630 on ICT and Technology Policy.
The update came in response to a question from legislator Donald Mavhudzi, who asked ICT, Postal and Courier Services minister Tatenda Mavetera to outline measures being taken to align Zimbabwe’s framework with the May 5, 2026 ACHPR Resolution 630, particularly on digital freedom of expression and access to information.
Mavetera said the Constitution enshrined the principles contained in Resolution 630.
“Our Constitution enshrines these principles, guaranteeing freedom of expression under section 61 and access to information under section 62,” she said.
“To operationalise the rights, the government enacted the Cyber and Data Protection Act [Chapter 12:07] in 2022, establishing the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe as the data protection authority to enforce the law.”
Mavetera said the recently launched National AI Strategy also reflected the resolution’s focus on ethical technology use.
“Our recently launched National AI Strategy has taken cognisance of the ethical use and adoption of AI, protecting our Ubuntu philosophy and natural culture,” she stated, noting that Resolution 630 was adopted after Zimbabwe’s Act was promulgated.
The ministry is also “actively engaged in the ongoing regional and continental consultations led by ACHPR” and “fully participating in the multi-stakeholder process to develop the required guidelines, ensuring they are contextually relevant.”
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The government is working with local and international partners to identify legislative gaps and ensure full respect for digital rights.
“We are also working with local and international partners to identify and address any gaps in our legislation and ensure that it fully respects the digital freedom of expression and access to information in line with the African Charter,” Mavetera said.
She added that Zimbabwe’s recent ratification of additional protocols to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights “demonstrates our unwavering commitment to embedding human rights standards across all sectors”.
