Zimbabwe to Launch AI Cyber Shield Within 12 Months to Combat Rising Cyber Threats
Zimbabwe is set to introduce an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Cyber Shield within the next 12 months.
According to ZBC News, the initiative was announced during the Cyberfraud and AI Summit held in Nyanga, which brought together security experts, policymakers and technology innovators to explore the opportunities and risks linked to artificial intelligence.
Also Read: Zimbabwe Approves National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy to Drive Digital Transformation
AI Threats Driving Urgent Response
Speaking at the summit, Information Communication Technology Minister Tatenda Mavetera said the Government is moving decisively to counter increasingly sophisticated cyber threats powered by artificial intelligence.
She warned that criminals are now exploiting technologies such as deepfakes, automated phishing, voice cloning and adaptive malware, which are advancing faster than traditional cybersecurity systems.
Mavetera said the proposed AI Cyber Shield will complement the country’s national AI framework while also promoting cyber awareness among citizens.
Legal Framework and Ethical Safeguards
Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe Director General Dr Gift Machengete said Zimbabwe already has a strong legal foundation to respond to emerging cyber risks.
He added that authorities are working on ethical guidelines to ensure responsible use of AI technologies, including measures to address bias and protect users.
Experts Call for Balanced Innovation
Cybersecurity expert and summit convenor Dr Whisper Rukanda said the gathering provided a critical platform to craft long-term strategies and anticipate future risks associated with rapid AI adoption.
He stressed the importance of maintaining vigilance while embracing innovation, noting that the goal is to create a secure digital environment where technological advancement and user protection go hand in hand.
Linked to National AI Strategy
The planned Cyber Shield comes shortly after the launch of Zimbabwe’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2024–2030) by President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The strategy aims to accelerate AI adoption across key sectors of the economy while ensuring that safeguards are in place to manage risks associated with the technology.
Authorities say the new AI Cyber Shield will play a central role in strengthening the country’s resilience against cybercrime as digital transformation gathers pace.
The post Zimbabwe to Launch AI Cyber Shield Within 12 Months to Combat Rising Cyber Threats appeared first on iHarare News.
