It is indeed my privilege and singular honor to receive this generous donation of computers and projectors from the People's Republic of China, particularly from Lanzhou City of Gansu Province. This gesture has further demonstrated that China has been, is and will always be our dear all weather friend.

The Zimbabwean government has identified ICT as a key element in the economic development of the country. This realization has since led to the adoption of the e-government policy at the political level and the e-learning policy in our education system.

His Excellency the President Cde R.G. Mugabe has also augmented this effort by sourcing computers and accessories, which have so far been distributed to several schools throughout the country.

This donation by the People's Republic of China will therefore go a long way in supporting the efforts of our government and leadership.

It is a known fact to all and sundry that the relationship between the Chinese government and the Zimbabwean government, dates back to the time of our protracted war of liberation that ushered in our independence.

During this time of our great need, China stood by Zimbabwe. Several of our comrades received their military training in China. China provided us with weapon of war and also other logistical supplies requisite fro the execution of war.

At independence, China stood by our side and provided us with the necessary support for the reconstruction of our country.

This relationship saw several bilateral agreements signed between the two governments.

When our country had sanctions imposed on it by our erstwhile colonial masters and their allies, China stood by our side and provided us with the requisite support in the various facets of our economic and social development.

Our agricultural mechanization program, bears testimony of this Chinese government support and good will.

Today's event, where we are witnessing a generous donation of computers and projectors for our schools, is yet another gesture demonstrating the strong bond between our two governments.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my fervent hope that these computers and projectors are going to be put to good use by the schools that are going to be beneficiaries of this donation.

We now live in a global village where ICT is now the order of the day in all our communication. It is therefore quite pleasing to note that our Chinese friends have through this donation ushered our schools into the age of ICT and e-learning.

Allow me ladies and gentlemen, to reiterate my profound appreciation for this donation as I accept this donation on behalf of the people of Zimbabwe, the government of Zimbabwe and indeed on my own behalf.

thank you.