Zimbabwe has been selected to host a regional institution for training data protection officers (DPOs) from across the Southern African Development Community (Sadc), a major recognition of the country’s growing leadership in data governance, digital regulation, and cyber resilience.
Sadc has formally approached Zimbabwe with a proposal to establish a training hub that will serve all member states. The development places Zimbabwe, whose Cyber and Data Protection Act (CDPA) came into effect only recently, at the centre of regional efforts to strengthen data protection and privacy standards.
Sadc’s endorsement of Zimbabwe’s role demonstrates growing regional confidence in the country’s capacity to shape and implement digital policy.
It is a clear signal that Zimbabwe’s regulatory approach is viewed as a model for other Sadc states still refining their own data protection regimes.
The development is evidence of Zimbabwe’s ability to “move mountains” in the digital space.
Across Africa, the digital revolution has led to a massive increase in the collection and storage of personal data.
From mobile money platforms and online health systems to e-commerce and education technologies, sensitive information is constantly being processed.
Without proper safeguards, that data can be misused, stolen or exploited, undermining trust in digital services.
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DPOs are key to ensuring compliance with legislation such as Zimbabwe’s CDPA and the Sadc Model Law on Data Protection.
They audit data handling practices, manage breach responses and train organisations on privacy responsibilities.
By hosting a regional training institution, Zimbabwe will contribute to building the skills base required to protect the personal information of millions of citizens across southern Africa.
The initiative offers Zimbabwe far-reaching benefits across economic, professional and policy domains.
Economic and professional growth
The hub will create new employment and consultancy opportunities for local experts in ICT, cybersecurity, law and compliance.
It will attract technical partnerships, international funding and visiting professionals who will contribute to local skills development and knowledge exchange.
A centre of regulatory excellence
Zimbabwe will be recognised as a regional thought leader in digital governance, joining the ranks of continental pioneers such as Mauritius and South Africa.
This recognition will strengthen the country’s reputation for sound regulation and transparency.
Growth in local technology
International investors and technology firms often seek markets that guarantee data privacy. A credible data protection environment will encourage foreign direct investment and boost domestic innovation in fintech, cloud computing, and digital trade.
Enhanced digital trust
As citizens gain confidence in how their data is managed, Zimbabwe will see broader adoption of e-government, online learning and digital financial services, all critical pillars of the country’s Vision 2030 digital economy agenda.
International credibility
Sadc’s decision signals global acknowledgment of Zimbabwe’s policy reforms and capacity building initiatives.
It reinforces the country’s standing as a credible, forward thinking actor in regional technology policy.
The Sadc wide training programme is expected to harmonise data protection standards and encourage consistency in how member states handle personal information.
Unified rules will make it easier to conduct cross-border digital trade, share information securely and implement regional cybersecurity cooperation.
The training hub will provide standardised curricula, professional certification and ongoing capacity development for DPOs.
Smaller economies in the region, often lacking local expertise, will benefit from shared resources and a stronger collective defence against data breaches and cyber threats.
This collaborative approach also supports the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area by ensuring cross border data flows remain safe and compliant with privacy norms.
The establishment of the training hub presents a timely opportunity for Zimbabweans with qualifications in ICT, cybersecurity, data management, law and information governance to take part in shaping the region’s digital future.
The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (Potraz) is expected to work closely with universities, research institutions and professional associations to identify and train local experts who can contribute to curriculum design, instruction, and regulatory support.
Aspiring professionals are encouraged to upskill in areas such as data privacy, cyber risk assessment, information security auditing and compliance management.
Demand for qualified DPOs is growing rapidly across Africa, and Zimbabwean professionals are well placed to fill that gap.
This initiative is not only about training; it is about creating a generation of regional digital guardians who will uphold the principles of privacy, transparency, and accountability in the digital age.
Potraz has long advocated for public awareness on cyber safety and data rights through outreach campaigns, workshops and the annual Cyber Security Conference, now one of the largest forums of its kind in southern Africa.
The project is a decisive step toward regional digital integration.
It paves the way for Zimbabwe to collaborate more closely with Sadc partners in developing policy frameworks, technical standards and research networks.
Mutisi is the CEO of Hansole Investments (Pvt) Ltd. He is the current chairperson of Zimbabwe Information & Communication Technology, a division of Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers. — +263772 278 161 or [email protected].
