An academic and property developer, Professor Kudakwashe Taruberekera, argues that Zimbabwe needs to adopt artificial intelligence immediately to keep its economy competitive. He spoke after attending the Global AI Show in Abu Dhabi, saying the country must strategically join this industrial revolution. As CEO of Craft Properties, he described AI as a proactive digital teammate, not just another software tool, capable of analyzing data for better decision-making.
Prof. Taruberekera explained that AI could directly support national goals like a 24-hour economy, handling tasks across time zones without pause. His company uses an Intelligent Development Model, letting them manage multiple projects at once with the same staff. Specific uses include analyzing land for development, enabling virtual property tours for diaspora Zimbabweans, and setting up early-warning systems for building maintenance. He emphasized the need for AI literacy within education, reliable power and internet, and local data hubs to protect information.
He pointed to the United Arab Emirates as an example, with its aim for an AI-powered government. Prof. Taruberekera called for strong public-private partnerships, where the government views the private sector as a genuine partner in this technological shift.
Prof. Taruberekera explained that AI could directly support national goals like a 24-hour economy, handling tasks across time zones without pause. His company uses an Intelligent Development Model, letting them manage multiple projects at once with the same staff. Specific uses include analyzing land for development, enabling virtual property tours for diaspora Zimbabweans, and setting up early-warning systems for building maintenance. He emphasized the need for AI literacy within education, reliable power and internet, and local data hubs to protect information.
He pointed to the United Arab Emirates as an example, with its aim for an AI-powered government. Prof. Taruberekera called for strong public-private partnerships, where the government views the private sector as a genuine partner in this technological shift.
