Zambia Advances E-Government Reforms to Expand Digital Access and Inclusion

The Zambian government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the country’s digital transformation agenda delivers tangible benefits for all citizens while safeguarding fundamental rights and freedoms.

Speaking at the Freedom and Rights in Zambia’s Digital Freedom and Rights Conference, SMART Zambia  National Coordinator Percy Chinyama said the country’s digitalization efforts are focused on improving public service delivery through more efficient, transparent, and inclusive digital platforms. His remarks were delivered by Chewe Nkole, Acting Assistant Director for Projects and Quality Assurance at the SMART Zambia Institute.

As part of ongoing reforms, the SMART Zambia Institute is reviewing the Electronic Government Directive No. 41 of 2021 to enhance the accessibility and adoption of electronic government services across the public sector. The move forms part of broader efforts to strengthen digital governance and improve citizen access to government services.

Chinyama noted that Zambia is continuing to invest in key digital infrastructure, including government connectivity, interoperable platforms, and integrated systems that enable citizens to access essential services such as healthcare, education, and social protection more conveniently.

The government also emphasized the importance of digital inclusion, highlighting ongoing investments in digital literacy, connectivity expansion, and skills development initiatives. Particular attention is being given to underserved groups, including rural communities, women, youth, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations.

Cybersecurity remains a critical priority within Zambia’s digital agenda. Chinyama stressed the need to protect personal information and strengthen security frameworks to build public trust in digital services as more government functions move online.

He also addressed the growing role of artificial intelligence, stating that AI adoption must be guided by principles of transparency, ethics, accountability, fairness, and inclusion to ensure technology supports human rights and societal development.

The government further called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, including civil society organizations, academia, the private sector, development partners, media, and citizens, to help shape a digital ecosystem that balances innovation with the protection of rights and freedoms.

The remarks underscore Zambia’s broader vision of building a digitally connected society where technology expands opportunities, strengthens accountability, and supports inclusive national development.