For an explanation of how to read this resource, refer to the guide at the end.
AI Regulation
There is no regulation specifically governing AI in the country. However, there have been certain actions in furtherance of AI governance. In December 2024, it was reported that the Zimbabwean Cabinet approved the ‘Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy Framework’ (the “AI Strategy Framework”).1
Definitions of AI
In the absence of publicly available official instruments on AI regulation in the country, including the AI Strategy Framework, we have not verified the existence of any definitions of AI.
Core Principles
In the absence of publicly available official instruments on AI regulation in the country, we have not verified the existence of any core AI principles.
Public Consultations
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of invitations for public input on AI governance in the country.
Existing Legal Framework
A non-exhaustive list of regulations that might affect AI in the country includes:
- Constitution of Zimbabwe2
- Zimbabwe Agenda for Sustainable Socio-Economic Transformation (October 2013 - December 2018) (Zim Asset)3
- National Development Strategy 1 (January 2021 - December 2025) (NDS1)4
- Zimbabwe National Policy for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) 20165
- Postal and Telecommunications Act [Chapter 12:05] (Act 4/2000)6
- Cyber and Data Protection Act [Chapter 12:07] (No. 5 of 2021)7
- Cyber and Data Protection (Licensing of Data Controllers and Appointment of Data Protection Officers) Regulations, 20248
- Freedom of Information Act [Chapter 10:33] (No. 1 of 2020)9
- Consumer Protection Act [Chapter 14:44], 201910
Human Rights
The UDHR was adopted by the UN General Assembly on 10 December 1948. Its principles are considered universal and applicable to all UN member states. As a member of the UN, Zimbabwe has committed to upholding the principles of the UDHR. The Constitution of Zimbabwe outlines various national objectives, including those relating to work, education, and health services (Sections 24, 27, and 29, respectively).11 It also includes provisions that protect fundamental human rights, such as Section 57, which guarantees the right to privacy (protection of the home, premises, or property from entry; protection of the foregoing as well as the person from search; and protection of the privacy of communications). Other guarantees include the rights to life (Section 48), dignity (Section 51), equality and non-discrimination (Section 56), and freedom of expression (Section 61). Zimbabwe has ratified several key international human rights instruments, including the ACHPR, ICCPR, and ICESCR. However, the country has not signed or ratified the Malabo Convention.
Regulators
A non-exhaustive list of regulators that might impact AI in the country includes:
- Ministry of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services12
- Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development (MHTESTD)13
- Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), the data protection authority14
- Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ)15
- Consumer Protection Commission16
- Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC)17
R&D and Multi-Stakeholder Initiatives
In March 2024, MHTESTD, Great Zimbabwe University (GZU), and the University of Zimbabwe collaborated to launch the National Centre of Excellence for Computational Intelligence (NCECI).18 Located at GZU, the Centre aims to promote innovation, research, and education in AI.19
Professional/Industry Associations
A non-exhaustive list of professional or industry associations with a focus on AI in the country includes:
Additionally, the following are associations with a broad scope that could include AI:
- Information and Communication Technology Association of Zimbabwe (ICTAZ)21
- Computer Society of Zimbabwe22
Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups
Based on publicly available information, we have not found evidence of advisory bodies or expert groups dedicated to AI in the country.
Guide
- AI Regulation: The term "regulation", as used in this resource, encompasses measures ranging from binding laws to national AI policies and strategies, government proposals, advisory guidelines, and industry standards that address AI systems and their implications.
- Existing Legal Framework: This section outlines the relevant legal framework, excluding any AI-specific regulations presented in the initial section.
- Human Rights: The following terms have the stated meanings: "ACHPR" means the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, "ICCPR" means the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, "ICESCR" means the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, "Malabo Convention" means the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, "UDHR" means the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and "UN" means the United Nations. Any reference to an “Article” or “Section” of the Constitution is to the version of the Constitution referenced herein.
- Advisory Bodies and Expert Groups: This section excludes legislative and parliamentary committees.
