Faith Ndou
KADOMA-Professor Kudakwashe Taruberekera, founder and chief executive of Kadoma headquartered Craft Properties Holdings says artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer an optional tool but a cornerstone for modern business particularly in property development.
Speaking after his participation in the Global AI Show 2025 in Abu Dhabi and the Dubai Future Forum, Taruberekera highlighted how AI is transforming industries worldwide and how Zimbabwe can benefit from adopting similar approaches.
“Technology is moving at an unprecedented pace, and AI is now a Digital Teammate rather than just another software package,” said Taruberekera.
“It helps in storing, analysing and interpreting data at speeds humans cannot match, allowing for smarter strategies and more informed decisions.”
According to Taruberekera, AI offers property developers significant advantages. From analysing the optimal time to purchase land to suggesting cost-effective construction materials, AI enhances efficiency and precision.
“It’s indefatigable. Unlike human teams constrained by time zones and business hours, AI operates 24/7, providing continuous service and client support across the globe,” he added.
Craft Properties is embracing an “Intelligent Development Model” that leverages AI to manage multiple projects simultaneously with the same team size while maintaining global competitiveness. AI integration will allow the firm to offer clients the same level of data backed security and efficiency as first-world developers in Dubai or London.
Taruberekera shared several ways AI could revolutionise Zimbabwe’s property sector;
Smart Land Use: AI can analyse soil types, demographics and urban growth patterns to predict emerging suburbs for development.
Virtual Site Visits: AI-driven virtual reality enables diaspora clients to tour properties remotely, building trust and accelerating sales.
Early Warning Maintenance: AI sensors in buildings can detect faults such as water leaks or electrical issues early, preventing disasters.
During the summits, Taruberekera observed that proactive strategies, rather than reactive ones, define global tech leaders.
The UAE’s “Stargate Consortium” and their 2027 vision for an AI-powered government offer practical lessons for Zimbabwe including the importance of sovereign data ownership, automating permits and streamlining bureaucracy to improve the ease of doing business.
Taruberekera also emphasised the importance of education and infrastructure.
“Zimbabwe must prioritise AI literacy and invest in reliable electricity and internet infrastructure. This is essential if we are to produce not only builders but ‘Digital Construction Managers’,” he said.
The UAE treats private companies as partners in national development, a model Taruberekera believes Zimbabwe can adopt. A coordinated “National AI Strategy” can drive efficiency, transparency, and competitiveness across sectors including real estate.
Looking ahead, Craft Properties plans to allocate a dedicated budget for AI integration, forge strategic partnerships with AI software providers and incorporate smart home features including AI security and energy-saving systems in all future projects.
Taruberekera also urged policymakers to establish “Tech-Friendly Zones” with tax incentives and duty suspensions to accelerate AI adoption.
“Zimbabwe has a brilliant young population. By equipping them with AI skills, we can become a tech hub for SADC, and potentially, the entire continent,” he said.
Through his international engagements, Taruberekera is leading the way in demonstrating that AI is not just about technology, it is about shaping the future of property development and national growth.
