Zimbabwe risks falling behind in global AI revolution

A recent World Bank report has warned that Zimbabwe and other low-income countries risk being left further behind as artificial intelligence rapidly reshapes the global economy.

The Digital Progress and Trends Report 2025: Strengthening AI Foundations, released in late 2025, highlights a widening global AI divide. While AI presents significant growth opportunities, low-income nations face persistent barriers, including limited connectivity, insufficient computing power, scarce relevant data, and inadequate digital skills—foundations critical for leveraging AI effectively.

The report points to stark disparities in data usage, a key enabler for AI technologies. In 2023 and 2024, individuals in high-income countries consumed far more data per person than those in low-income nations, restricting engagement with data-intensive AI applications.

In Zimbabwe, internet penetration stood at around 38% in early 2025, with median fixed broadband speeds of approximately 20 megabits per second, far below what is needed for seamless AI tool usage. Over 90% of internet access relies on mobile data, which is often expensive and inconsistent, particularly in rural areas where two-thirds of the population reside.

Despite these challenges, Zimbabwe is moving to position itself for the AI era. In October 2025, Cabinet approved the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy for 2026–2030, scheduled for official launch in March 2026. The strategy seeks to harness AI for economic growth while mitigating associated risks, with a focus on talent development, digital infrastructure, ethical governance, and sector-specific applications in agriculture, health, education, and mining.

The plan also promotes the adoption of small AI solutions—affordable, mobile-friendly tools that operate on everyday devices without heavy computing requirements. This approach aligns with broader national objectives under Vision 2030 and the Smart Zimbabwe Master Plan.

The World Bank underscores that access alone is insufficient. Meaningful participation in the digital economy requires affordable data, reliable networks, and scalable services. For Zimbabwe, targeted investments and successful implementation of the AI strategy could be crucial to avoid being sidelined in the rapidly evolving global AI landscape.