President Emmerson Mnangagwa has emphasized the importance for Zimbabwe to stay aligned with global technological advancements.
During his current official visit to China, President Mnangagwa toured the Build Your Dream Auto Company (BYD) headquarters in Shenzhen and the Huawei Centre on Friday.
His first stop was BYD Auto’s headquarters, renowned for its production of electric vehicles. President Mnangagwa was introduced to the company’s latest electric vehicle models, which present a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered cars. With a branch in Harare and a portfolio of 30,000 patents, BYD continues to innovate and explore new technologies. Given Zimbabwe’s rich lithium resources, leveraging these markets is crucial for the country.
Following his visit to BYD, President Mnangagwa proceeded to the Huawei factory, where he explored cutting-edge technologies that have potential applications in various sectors, including health and education, to enhance service delivery. Zimbabwe is already benefiting from Huawei’s expertise, as highlighted by Chakwizira Denga, a student from the TelOne Learning Centre in Harare. Denga spoke about the valuable opportunities provided by Huawei, including a digital tour in China, which has helped students envision advancements in technology.
“Huawei’s support and exposure are invaluable. Over the past five years, President Mnangagwa’s vision of ‘Nyika Inovakwa Nevene Vayo’ has resonated with us. Huawei’s initiatives are allowing us to develop our own ICT capabilities. China has always been a friend to Zimbabwe, and I aim to inspire as many students as possible,” Denga said.
Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Zimbabwe and Huawei to strengthen cooperation.
President Mnangagwa stressed the importance of integrating the technologies showcased in China into Zimbabwe’s various sectors to improve service delivery. He noted the rapid technological progress at Huawei and expressed hope that Zimbabweans will embrace these innovations.
“Every visit to China reveals new advancements, especially at Huawei. Their technology evolves annually, and I encourage our people in Zimbabwe to adopt these advancements. China remains one of our closest partners in technological cooperation,” President Mnangagwa remarked.
Highlighting the deep-rooted ties between Beijing and Harare, President Mnangagwa reminded that Zimbabwe’s first group of guerrillas received training in China in 1964. He emphasized the need for the younger generation to strengthen these enduring relations.
President Mnangagwa is scheduled to tour various Chinese provinces before proceeding to Beijing for a State Visit.
source – ZBC
