KEY POINTS
- Zimbabwe proposes mandatory IMEI registration of all mobile phones, raising concerns about potential government surveillance under the guise of crime prevention.
- Critics highlight the country’s history of digital rights violations and question why a new database is needed when telecoms already collect this information.
- The move comes amid growing political tensions, with fears the system could be weaponized against activists and opposition voices ahead of key national events.
Zimbabwe’s telecommunications regulator, POTRAZ, has proposed legislation requiring mandatory registration of all mobile phones by capturing their unique IMEI numbers in a national database.
While officials claim this measure will enhance security and combat cybercrime, critics warn it could become a tool for government surveillance in a country with a history of digital rights violations.
The proposal comes at a time when Zimbabweans are increasingly reliant on mobile technology, with over 14 million active mobile connections in the country. POTRAZ argues the system would help track stolen devices and secure mobile transactions. “This is about protecting citizens in the digital space,” a regulator spokesperson stated anonymously.
However, digital rights activists point out that mobile networks already collect IMEI data during normal operations. “Creating a separate national database serves no technical purpose we can identify,” said Takudzwa Mhishi of Zimbabwe’s Digital Rights Forum. “This appears to be about centralizing surveillance capabilities under government control.”
Historical precedents fuel public distrust
The proposal has reignited concerns stemming from past incidents, including a 2023 state television broadcast where ruling party officials allegedly boasted about monitoring private WhatsApp communications.
While experts questioned the technical feasibility of such claims, the psychological impact on citizens was undeniable.
Memory Nguwi, a Harare-based tech analyst, explains: “During elections, we’ve seen how biometric voter data rumors were weaponized to influence behavior. An IMEI database could be similarly abused to track activists, journalists, or opposition members under the guise of national security.”
The timing is particularly sensitive as Zimbabwe prepares for potential political reforms. Some opposition groups have already labeled the proposal “digital voter intimidation” that could chill free expression ahead of crucial national discussions.
The announcement has sparked heated debate across Zimbabwean social media, with hashtag #HandsOffMyPhone trending. Some citizens report considering switching to older, non-smartphone models if the law passes.
Tech in Africa reports that POTRAZ maintains the proposal remains in consultation phase, with public hearings expected next month. However, with Zimbabwe’s parliament dominated by the ruling party, many expect quick passage despite objections.
International human rights groups are monitoring the situation closely. Amnesty International’s Africa branch has warned that “any mass data collection must include ironclad privacy protections and independent oversight to prevent abuse.”
