Bulawayo Creative Technologist Develops AI Project
Walter Patsanza is a Bulawayo-based creative technologist and digital creative whose work focuses on creativity, technology and digital innovation.
With a background in graphic design and UI design, Patsanza has been exploring digital skills, creative technology and ways of connecting African ideas to the wider world. His work with artificial intelligence has led to the development of AI Stories of Africa, an exploration of African stories, culture, history and imagination through technology.
Speaking to The List Awards by Identities Media Holdings, Patsanza said his work was inspired by his belief in the potential of creativity and technology, “My work grew from a simple belief: creativity can open doors, especially when technology is used with purpose,” he said.
He said as AI became more accessible, he began experimenting with how it could support storytelling and creativity, leading to the development of AI Stories of Africa. One of his key achievements has been presenting his research on the project internationally.
Patsanza was selected to present his paper, “AI Stories of Africa: Reimagining African Identity Through Human + Machine Collaboration,” at the Afrotellers conference in Kenya.
The same research is being developed into an e-book, which he said is planned for launch on the day of the awards.
Through Creative Management Agency, Patsanza has also connected with creatives, businesses and communities across Africa, creating opportunities for collaboration, knowledge-sharing and digital innovation. Patsanza said his work involves developing AI-assisted creative concepts, digital experiences and solutions for African brands, businesses and communities.
As a semi-finalist under the Business Impact Award for in The List Awards 2026, he said the recognition represented an opportunity to demonstrate what was possible from Bulawayo and contribute to the growth of the city’s digital and creative ecosystem,
“Being a finalist or winner of The List Awards represents recognition that digital creativity and innovation can have a meaningful impact beyond the screen,” he said.
Looking ahead, Patsanza is focused on developing Mambo AI, an artificial intelligence system trained around African languages and designed for use across multiple sectors, “The goal is to make AI more relevant, accessible and useful for African communities, while creating technology that can scale beyond Africa,” he said.
Patsanza’s plans remain centred on developing Mambo AI and using technology to create solutions that are relevant and accessible to African communities.