14/11/2025
Story by Munyaradzi Dembenuzani
BRIDGING THE DIGITAL DIVIDE IN MBARE
Mbare has long been known as one of Zimbabwe’s oldest and most vibrant communities—but behind its energy lies a deep digital divide. For many families, basic access to technology remains out of reach, making digital literacy an urgent need.
When the Mbare Renewal Project conducted a household survey in Block 8 Matapi earlier last year, the findings were startling. “Out of 101 households, only two had laptops, and just one had a desktop—yakanga yakatofa,” recalls the special projects Director. Mr. O. Vellem “We realised this was just a tip of the iceberg, so we decided to create a digital center to offer free lessons to the community.
"The center opened its doors to learners of all ages. Local schools are invited to rotate for free computer lessons—Today we have Wonderland, tomorrow we can have Gwinyai, kusvika zvikoro zvese zvapera, and ticharamba tichiita ma engagements kuti zvibude.
"But the journey has not been without obstacles.
Tine nyaya yespace. Takambotaura neVakuru but havasati havo vapindura. We are calling upon the relevant ministries to assist us with experienced tutors and more computers. Atiinawo mashoma— we have just a handful of desktops and laptops that were donated to us by the Government when we officially opened this year, so sometimes students have to share, " explained the director.
Despite the resource gaps, the center is already transforming lives. Over 250 non school going residents have taken lessons since the start of 2025—among them elderly community member over 65-year-old Gogo kutukwa "vakatouyawo vakabaya bayawo,” added Vellem.
The project had hoped to reach 1,500 learners this year but remains at 564, including school goers, largely due to limited equipment. He added that they had initially planned to have a ratio of 1 learning center serving at least 2 refurbished blocks and have additional centers for everyone in Mbare to have access.
For teachers, the program has become a doorway into the future. One participating teacher from Wonderland, Mr. Malala describes it as eye-opening.
“I’ve learned to be in the same world with my students. Digital skills are going to be important as they go into industries. They’re now conscious of the digital environment. I would definitely recommend this program to other schools in Mbare—especially because my students get enlightenment in technology and AI. It makes them relevant in this era.”
The students themselves are embracing the change.
“Ndafarira kudzidza nezve AI—hanzi inokwanisa kutibatsira kuchikoro, especially pama projects, and aaaaah, Ndava confident kushandisa computer manje.” noted, Ms. C. Mahwani, form 3 student at Wonderland.
Parents are equally excited as one baba kyle highlighted how the program has changed their outlook at home. “Ndirikufara nekuti vana vedu vakufambiranawo nezvinhu. Izvezvi ndatovatengerawo computer paden kuti vatopotawo vachibaya bayawo sevamwe. Ndiri kutarisira kuti technology yacho vakaibatawo, vachaunza ma solutions kumatambudziko ari mucommunity sezviri kuitwa nedzimwe nyika”
In a community where technology was once a distant dream, the digital literacy initiative is planting seeds of opportunity. Through determination, community spirit, and an unwavering commitment to empowerment, Mbare is carving a new path—one where children, parents, and even grandparents can find their place in the digital world.
The Mbare Renewal Project hopes that with more support—more devices, more tutors and more space—no learners will be left behind.
A renewed Mbare is not just rebuilt structures; it is rebuilt futures.
Plan International Zimbabwe Mbare 4 Change Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Ministry of Information, Publicity & Broadcasting Services Mbare Renewal Projects
