Zimbabwe has completed the ground work, which includes consultations and research, for a new information and communication technology (ICT) policy, which is expected to be finalised by the end of this year.

The initial ICT Policy Framework, which was developed in 2007, is widely viewed as outdated. And analysts say Zimbabwe needs a new technology policy, which will be in line with new technological trends and developments.

So, in the past few weeks, the Zimbabwean ministry of information and communication technology has held nationwide consultative workshops aimed at gathering input for the new policy document.

Nelson Chamisa, the country’s ICT minister, said the new policy will pave the way for the effective implementation of “e-commerce” and spur development in the country through the usage and application of ICT platforms.

“We have concluded the consultation ground work,” he said.

The new ICT policy, said sources involved in the process, will lead to the establishment of a national information and communication technology authority or an ICT sector regulator.

Chamisa also revealed that the ICT ministry had also initiated a plan that could see the establishment of e-communication kiosks in rural areas.

“This one-stop shop will have all the ICT facilities under one roof, Internet, printers, phone and other ICT accessories,” explained Chamisa.