SMART Zambia and Huawei Launch AI Data Centre Initiative to Accelerate Digital Transformation
SMART Zambia National Coordinator Percy Chinyama noted that ongoing investments in digital systems are already generating significant public sector efficiencies, including cost savings, improved transparency, and enhanced service delivery across key areas such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and finance.
Zambia has taken a major step in advancing its digital transformation agenda following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between SMART Zambia and Huawei Technologies to jointly support the development of a National Artificial Intelligence Data Centre.
The agreement also outlines a capacity-building programme that will see 5,000 Information and Communication Technology professionals trained by 2028 through Huawei’s Global Academy, aimed at strengthening Zambia’s digital skills pipeline and supporting long-term innovation capacity.
The announcement was made during the 2026 Zambia Mobile Congress in Lusaka, where Vice President W.K. Mutale Nalumango reiterated government’s commitment to positioning the country as an active player in the global digital economy. She emphasized Zambia’s goal of becoming a smart, connected, and competitive nation driven by technology-enabled growth and inclusive development.
She further stated that the partnership is expected to accelerate the deployment of artificial intelligence-powered services across all 25 government ministries, with the aim of improving efficiency, accessibility, and service delivery to citizens.
SMART Zambia National Coordinator Percy Chinyama noted that ongoing investments in digital systems are already generating significant public sector efficiencies, including cost savings, improved transparency, and enhanced service delivery across key areas such as agriculture, healthcare, education, and finance.
Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Han Jing reaffirmed China’s continued support for Zambia’s digital transformation journey, highlighting the importance of sustained cooperation in building resilient and future-ready digital infrastructure.
Huawei Technologies Southern Region Vice President for Network Operations Chen Li also expressed the company’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s Vision 2030 objectives through continued investment in digital infrastructure and skills development.
The 2026 Zambia Mobile Congress remains ongoing in Lusaka, bringing together stakeholders to shape the country’s roadmap toward a more digitally driven and intelligent economy.
