The government has approved the implementation of the Smart City concept, which aims to curb traffic offences and reduce road accidents.
The Smart City initiative will be rolled out by telecommunications company TelOne.
The system will incorporate Artificial Intelligence (AI), including components such as cameras with automatic number plate and facial recognition capabilities.
Read more: Zimbabwe embraces smart city technology to tame traffic offences
The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) Company has announced a call for Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from qualified local and international firms to take part in the development of significant infrastructure projects at its grounds. These projects include the construction of three-star or five-star hotels, a convention centre, an office tower, and a theme park.
In a notice issued on Monday, the trade exhibition company stated that it had already secured a US$12 million commitment from a development partner for the construction of a state-of-the-art shopping centre, marking a major step in the ongoing transformation of the ZITF grounds. The company is seeking firms with a minimum of 10 years' experience in handling large-scale development projects.
Read more: Zimbabwe International Trade Fair Company seeks partners for US$12m smart city project
The Umguza Rural District Council (RDC) is transforming the Ntabazinduna area into a smart city, with the industrial corridor along the Ntabazinduna Road turn-off from the Bulawayo-Harare Road already showing progress. This development is part of the Zimbabwe National Human Settlement Plan (ZNHSP) and aligns with Vision 2030 and President Mnangagwa's directive for local authorities to develop masterplans that improve service delivery.
Smart cities, which use advanced information and communication technologies (ICTs) and sustainable practices, are designed to enhance urban living by improving operational efficiency, public services, and overall quality of life. Ntabazinduna's transformation is expected to follow these global trends.
Read more: Umguza: Ntabazinduna poised to become a smart city
The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Bulawayo, Judith Ncube, has officially launched the Smart City Surveillance System, a significant step in utilizing technology to fight crime in the city. The surveillance system is a collaborative initiative between the Bulawayo Business Against Crime Forum of Zimbabwe (BACFOZ) and local security agency Safeguard.
This project marks a major milestone in the city's efforts to embrace modern policing techniques, with law enforcement set to incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) into crime prevention and investigation. The use of technology is expected to fundamentally change how crime is managed, making it easier to monitor and respond to criminal activities in real-time.
Read more: ZW: Bulawayo launches smart city surveillance system
A new "smart city" project is set to be developed in Nkenyane, Ward 14, approximately 20km north of Bulawayo in Bubi, Matabeleland North Province. This initiative aims to modernize the rural district through improved infrastructure and increased investment appeal.
The proposal, which is awaiting Cabinet approval, has received support from three major corporations interested in building modern housing and a shopping mall. The project is expected to alleviate housing shortages in Bulawayo by attracting home-seekers to Bubi due to its proximity to the city.