Changes in the Data and Information Systems in Zimbabwe: Lessons from Legislation and Policy Post 2018

Abstract

While freedom to access and dissemination of information and data are critical pillars of effective communication and data transparency, there is, however, consensus that people of capable age and competent understanding are not completely free to access data and information, sensitive or not, due to the overriding principle of data protection. This article critically explores the changes that have occurred in Zimbabwe's data and information cycles and how the changes of rules and regulations have been of immense benefit to the country's socio-economic and political advancement. Furthermore, it traces the changes in data and information systems in Zimbabwe. This article is alive to the fact that the legislature has made strides in amending section 162 of the Criminal Law Codification (Codification and Reform) Act (Chapter 9:23), to provide clarity on issues to do with the procedure regarding the collection of evidence, illegal data collection and procedure for the admissibility of electronic evidence. For data collection, the study used qualitative data and textual analysis. Further, the article unpacks the changes that have occurred and provides a critical analysis on whether there is an inherent alignment with the Constitution of Zimbabwe (2013). This article provides and recommends effective ways Zimbabwe needs to implement towards data and information protection and ascertain whether the protection of sensitive data or not will not affect the freedom to access of information.