By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
BULAWAYO – In a striking departure from typical tech regulation speeches, the Director General of the Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ), Dr Gift Machengete, has issued a stern warning to young women about the growing phenomenon of “AI boyfriends” – artificial intelligence companions designed to simulate romantic relationships.
In a speech read on his behalf by Deputy Director General, Mr Alfred Marisa at the International Girls in ICT Day commemoration at the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) over the weekend, Dr. Machengete acknowledged the appeal of these digital partners, which some young women describe as ideal companions who do not cheat, are not stingy, and are never abusive.
But his endorsement stopped there.
“To some, this may sound modern and exciting. But it also raises a very important question for us as a society: Is this the kind of artificial intelligence we want shaping the future of the African girl child?” he asked the gathered students. “My answer is No.”
The Director General warned that an overreliance on AI for emotional connection risks weakening human bonds, destroying cultural values, and isolating young people from genuine relationships.
He specifically cited African principles of family, respect, responsibility, and community as values that must not be sacrificed for technological convenience.
“We do not want technology that erodes the values of family, respect, responsibility and community which define us as Africans,” Dr. Machengete said.
“We want AI that strengthens families and communities. We want AI that helps girls learn, innovate and become leaders.”
His comments place Zimbabwe among a small but growing number of nations where regulators are publicly questioning the social impact of AI companionship, particularly on adolescent mental health and social development.
Reaction among students at the event was mixed. Some quietly acknowledged knowing peers who use such apps, while others welcomed the regulator’s candor.
“I think he is right,” said one second-year ICT student who asked not to be named. “An app cannot teach you how to handle a real disagreement or build a real home.”
Dr. Machengete concluded with a direct message to the girls in attendance: “Artificial intelligence must never define your worth – you must define how artificial intelligence serves humanity.”
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