Zimpapers Logo

Victoria Ruzvidzo in Sochi, Russia

Digital transformation in public administration is a game changer for Africa, particularly in the elimination of inefficiencies, bureaucracy, corruption and social exclusion, the Minister of Information Communication Technology, Postal and Courier Services Dr Tatenda Mavetera has said.

She was a panelist in a session on Capacity Building in e-Governance held here this morning attended by ministers and other representatives from Russia, Tanzania, Malawi and Nigeria among others.

Dr Mavetera said digital transformation was critical in improving the quality of lives in Zimbabwe and the rest of the African continent.

“Digital transformation of public administration can help overcome numerous societal challenges. The global challenges in my view include inefficiency and bureaucracy where redundant processes and excessive hierarchical structures can bring in inefficiencies in public service delivery,”

Digital procurement systems would also eliminate corruption and lack of transparency among other challenges while disaster response and recovery would benefit through digital communication systems and more efficient emergency response mechanisms.

Russia and African countries are prioritizing e-governance as the world gravitates more towards digital. This dovetails with the Digital Transformation for Africa 2020-2030 under Agenda 2063.

Respective countries have adopted strategies aimed at ensuring equal access to public services and bridging the digital divide.

Digital platforms are becoming integrated in such areas as budget administration, electronic passports and voter registration. Zimbabwe has already adopted a number of such strategies.