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Fungai Lupande Mash Central Bureau
The Postal and Telecommunication Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) has set up a community based information centre at Karanda Mission Hospital to increase access of information in rural communities and promote development.

Officially opening the containerised village information centre recently, Minister of State for Presidential Affairs and Implementation of Government Programmes Dr Joram Gumbo said the 2030 agenda could not be attained without massive ICT investment in remote and vulnerable communities.

He said information is the driving force for modern society in promoting development but access to information is not equal across different areas in the country.

“People in urban centres can choose from abundant sources of information in contrast with people in poor communities who don’t have access to the information they need to improve their lives,” he said.

“Community-based information centres are meant to bridge the gap that has hindered development in rural areas. Government has identified these centres as the primary vehicle for the implementation of development communication and information programmes. The centres are a necessary poverty alleviation strategy that needs to be promoted to improve of the quality of life for rural communities.”

Dr Gumbo said the Government is serious about the 100 day cycle programme, moving the country forward and attaining Vision 2030.

He thanked Karanda Hospital for offering Portraz land to set up the facility and for providing offering their water and ablution facilities.

Construction of the centre was affected by the Covid-19 induced lockdown and Dr Gumbo urged implementers of the project to move with speed to complete outstanding work following relaxation of restrictions.

Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Senator Monica Mavhunga, who was represented by acting director Mr Admore Shereni expressed concern over delays in completing projects in the province.

“Construction of the centre started some time back and remains incomplete. Such delays are a hindrance to progress. We also have Karanda Bridge, which offers the shortest route to Karanda Hospital,” she said.

“We are optimistic that your coming here will provide critical monitoring and evaluation insight that will unlock closed doors of funding, which is the major reason stalling progress in many projects.”