Zimbabwe’s AI visionary honoured with Global Platinum Award

Staff Reporter

Zimbabwe’s leadership in artificial intelligence and digital transformation was thrust onto the global stage when Zimbabwe National AI Strategy co-architect Hon Dr Martin Muduva received the Global Business Achievers Network (GBAN) Platinum Award for Visionary Leadership and Sustainability Excellence.  

The honour was presented at a high-profile ceremony in Harare, presided over by Vice President Kembo Mohadi and attended by senior government dignitaries, including Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Minister Senator Monica Mutsvangwa.  

The Platinum Award, one of GBAN’s highest international accolades, recognises leaders whose work demonstrates groundbreaking innovation, sustainability, and transformative socio-economic impact. Dr Muduva’s recognition underscores Zimbabwe’s growing profile in the global AI landscape, highlighting the nation's commitment to responsible technology governance and the advancement of Vision 2030.  

Speaking to Zimpapers, Dr Muduva emphasised that the prestigious award reflects Zimbabwe’s collective innovation journey. He stressed that artificial intelligence must be strategically harnessed to transform lives, build digital skills, and strengthen national economic competitiveness.  

"Receiving this Platinum Award is a tremendous honour and a reminder that meaningful innovation is achieved through collaboration,” said Dr Muduva. He noted that the recognition symbolises the combined efforts of public institutions, tech professionals, and industry stakeholders shaping Zimbabwe’s digital future.  

"The Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence Strategy provides a clear roadmap, but its success will depend on investing in our people," he said.  

Dr Muduva highlighted the importance of nurturing youth STEM skills, supporting local research, and creating opportunities for young tech innovators to become active creators of emerging Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies.  

"Artificial intelligence is not an end in itself. It is a vital enabler of better healthcare, smarter precision agriculture, quality education, efficient public services, and sustainable economic growth," he explained.  

He concluded that modern technologies must be deployed ethically, securely, and inclusively to deliver tangible, long-term benefits for every Zimbabwean while advancing the country's sustainable development goals.  

Martin Muduva GBAN Platinum Award AI Zimbabwe