Japan will be assisting Zimbabwe with cyber-security equipment so that the country is more able to tackle cyber-crime and transnational crimes.

On 12 November 2018, Ambassador Iwado and the Minister of Finance and Economic Development, the Hon. Professor Mthuli Ncube, signed agreements to this effect. The equipment will be used by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) in conjunction with INTERPOL and the police forces of the region. Also attending the signing was the Minister of Information and Communication Technology, the Hon. Kazembe Kazembe and the Head of the INTERPOL Regional Bureau, Mr Mubita Nawa. Japan’s contribution for this project amounts to around US$ 3.6 million.

In recent years there has been a rapid rise in cyber-crime, especially with the rise in electronic payment methods. This has also had a negative impact on the tourism sector. Transnational crimes, such as illegal trade in wildlife, trafficking of illegal goods, motor vehicle theft and human trafficking, have also increased in the region. With safety one of the pillars for a country’s economic and social development, it is important to prevent all types of crime.

The new equipment will be the latest equipment made by Japanese companies to tackle cyber- and transnational crimes. It will include digital forensic tools, face recognition systems and an information sharing platform, and will be used by the ZRP in collaboration with regional police forces. It will allow investigations of crimes committed through the use of electronic devices, detection of criminals entering the country, and increased collaboration between the police forces of the region. It is expected that it will lead to a reduction in cyber- and transnational crimes in Zimbabwe and the region.

Speaking at the signing, Ambassador Iwado said he hoped that the new equipment would contribute to improving safety in the region. Hon. Minister Ncube said Zimbabwe would use the equipment efficiently and effectively in ensuring cyber-security. He and Hon. Minister Kazembe both thanked the Government of Japan for its continued support to the people of Zimbabwe in the fields of transport, agriculture, education and health.  J

apan will continue to strongly support Zimbabwe to accelerate her economic and social development and play an important role in ensuring the development of the region.