Zambia Launches Five-Pillar Digital Transformation Agenda to Boost Connectivity and Inclusion
The initiative, built around a five-pillar strategy, aims to position technology as a driver of economic growth and inclusion for every Zambian.
Zambia is making significant strides in its digital transformation, guided by the Ministry of Technology and Science under Minister Felix Chipota Mutati. The initiative, built around a five-pillar strategy, aims to position technology as a driver of economic growth and inclusion for every Zambian.
The agenda was inspired from Mutati’s first day in office, when he convened key stakeholders on a Sunday to outline a bold vision: to “re-imagine, re-vision, and digitize Zambia’s economy.” This vision has since evolved into a comprehensive framework designed to ensure technology benefits all citizens.
Pillar One: Regional Technology and Connectivity Hub
Zambia aims to leverage its strategic location, bordered by eight countries and connected to regional fibre and undersea cable networks, to become a gateway for digital connectivity in Southern Africa.
Pillar Two: Interoperable Digital Ecosystem
Recognizing that connectivity alone is insufficient, the government is fostering an interoperable digital ecosystem. This initiative encourages banks, fintechs, telecom operators, startups, and global partners to collaborate and integrate platforms, making digital services seamless for users.
Pillar Three: Affordability and Access
To ensure digital inclusion, Zambia has focused on lowering barriers to access. Ultra-low-cost smart devices are now widely available, enabling more citizens to participate in the digital economy.
Pillar Four: AI-Enabled Economy
The government is laying the foundation for an AI-driven economy, with tools and applications that enhance service delivery, productivity, and everyday life. The approach emphasizes ethical, practical, and inclusive AI tailored to Zambia’s context.
Pillar Five: Inclusive, Borderless Digital Payments
Zambia is expanding financial inclusion through digital payments. A recent milestone is the MTN Mobile Money Mastercard partnership, which opens global payment channels for citizens, enabling cross-border commerce and greater participation in the digital economy.
Minister Mutati emphasized that while the agenda is still a work in progress, tangible results are emerging through strong collaboration between the government and private sector. He concluded that Zambia is now visibly digitizing, connecting its economy, and preparing its citizens for a global digital future.
