HARARE, Mar. 20 (NewsDayLive) - The newly-appointed International Telecommunication Union (ITU) representative for southern Africa, Halima Letamo, paid a courtesy call on Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (Potraz) director-general Gift Machengete on Wednesday as she prepares to assume her duties.
Letamo will be based in Harare where she will oversee ITU operations across southern Africa.
Her appointment is expected to strengthen collaboration between ITU and regional telecommunications regulatory bodies in advancing digital transformation .
Machengete welcomed Letamo and expressed optimism about the future of ICT cooperation in the region.
“The ITU plays a critical role in shaping the telecommunications landscape, and we look forward to working closely with Ms. Letamo to enhance ICT policies, digital inclusion, and capacity building initiatives in Zimbabwe and beyond,” he said.
Letamo highlighted her commitment to fostering regional ICT growth, emphasizing the importance of regulatory cooperation and innovation.
“Southern Africa has immense potential for digital transformation, and ITU remains committed to supporting governments and regulators in building resilient and inclusive ICT ecosystems. I look forward to collaborating with Potraz and other stakeholders to drive this agenda forward,” she said.
Letamo’s appointment comes at a time when Zimbabwe and other countries in the region are pushing for enhanced broadband access, improved digital literacy, and the development of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and 5G networks.
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Industry experts said Letamo's experience will be invaluable in addressing challenges faced by ICT companies in southern Africa.
Telecommunications expert Jacob Mutisi said: “Ms. Letamo’s background in regulatory frameworks and ICT development makes her well-suited to lead ITU’s initiatives in southern Africa.
“Her presence in Harare will help accelerate ICT policy harmonization and digital infrastructure expansion in the region.”
As ITU regional representative, Letamo will work closely with governments, regulatory bodies, and private sector players to enhance digital connectivity, bridge the digital divide, and promote ICT-driven economic development.
Her engagement with Potraz marks the beginning of what is expected to be a dynamic collaboration aimed at positioning southern Africa as a leader in ICT innovation and regulation.
