Zambia Signs MoU with Sochitel UK to Boost Digital Connectivity and Trade

The Ministry of Technology and Science of Zambia  has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sochitel UK Ltd  to advance digital connectivity, regional trade facilitation, and cross-border integration. The signing ceremony, held on October 17, 2025, at the Ministry’s boardroom, was presided over by the Permanent Secretary, Eng. Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu. The agreement marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s digital transformation agenda and its broader efforts to position the nation as a regional technology hub.

In his remarks, Dr. Habeenzu stated that the partnership reflects Zambia’s shared ambition to create a digitally connected, secure, and efficient cross-border corridor with its neighboring countries. He explained that this collaboration goes beyond a bilateral arrangement, representing a strategic step forward in building an interoperable digital ecosystem to enable seamless trade, mobility, and innovation across borders. By leveraging Sochitel’s expertise in digital platforms, fintech ecosystems, and telecommunications, Zambia aims to establish the foundation for smarter and more integrated border management systems.

The MoU directly supports President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision for a “Smart Zambia,” as outlined in the 8th National Development Plan and the National Digital Transformation Agenda. The initiative aligns with national efforts to harness technology as a driver of economic growth, regional competitiveness, and inclusive development. Key focus areas of the collaboration include the introduction of e-visas and the elimination of roaming charges across participating countries, real-time cargo tracking systems, and cross-border data exchange mechanisms. These innovations are expected to significantly enhance trade efficiency, reduce costs, and promote transparency in border operations, particularly along the strategic Lobito Corridor.

Dr. Habeenzu noted that the benefits of this digital collaboration extend directly to citizens and businesses. The initiative will bring about improved transparency, faster border processing, and reduced operational costs — all of which will create new opportunities for small traders, logistics operators, and digital entrepreneurs. He called on the private sector to actively participate and invest in the initiative, emphasizing its role in realizing the President’s “No Stop Border” vision, which seeks to facilitate uninterrupted trade flows across the region.

In his address, Dr. Habeenzu expressed gratitude to Sochitel UK Ltd for its commitment to Africa’s digital future and for choosing Zambia as a partner in this transformative journey. He said that Sochitel’s decision to collaborate demonstrates confidence in Zambia’s governance systems, infrastructure, and human capital. He further urged all stakeholders — including government agencies, regulators, academia, and private enterprises — to work together to ensure that the MoU becomes a practical framework for innovation and connectivity, rather than just a formal agreement.

Concluding his remarks, the Permanent Secretary described the partnership as the beginning of a new era in Africa’s digital cooperation, symbolizing the laying of “digital railway lines” for the continent’s economic future. He emphasized that the collaboration between Zambia and Sochitel UK Ltd should serve as a model of visionary partnership, demonstrating how digital transformation can strengthen trade, innovation, and sustainable growth across Africa.