World Bank Grants Zambia $120M to Expand Digital Infrastructure
As part of the digital expansion strategy, the government aims to extend 4G and 5G network coverage to 90% of the population by the end of 2025.
The World Bank has approved a $120 million grant to strengthen Zambia’s public digital infrastructure, marking a significant step toward achieving the country’s Science, Technology and Innovation Policy objectives and its broader Vision 2030 development agenda.
The announcement was made by Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati, in remarks delivered on his behalf by George Matulula, the ministry’s Human Resource Director, during the launch of the ABSA Mobi Tap app in Lusaka.
As part of the digital expansion strategy, the government aims to extend 4G and 5G network coverage to 90% of the population by the end of 2025. The initiative is expected to accelerate connectivity, support innovation, and drive economic growth.
The event also spotlighted the ABSA Mobi Tap app, a new mobile payment solution designed to enhance financial inclusion. Minister Mutati described the app as a “powerful tool” that will enable small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), women, youth, and rural communities to seamlessly embrace digital payments.
Tigmoo Chief Executive Officer Vikas Kumar hailed the launch as a milestone in Zambia’s journey toward digital commerce, emphasizing the potential to reshape the payments landscape. ABSA Bank Zambia Managing Director Mizinga Melu added that the solution would empower businesses—particularly SMEs—to integrate digital transactions into their daily operations.
The combination of World Bank support for infrastructure and private-sector innovation is expected to accelerate Zambia’s transition to a digitally inclusive economy, bridging connectivity gaps while creating new opportunities for entrepreneurship and financial access.
