By (Charles Markisma Chilufya Jr)
It is important to note that Zambia is at the threshold of a digital revolution, fueled by a vibrant pool of tech talent that has demonstrated remarkable potential to scale and deliver transformative development. However, this potential can only be fully realized if the government, particularly the Ministries of Technology and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), actively supports local innovators by investing in their ideas and believing in the solutions they bring to national challenges.
1. On the current Tech landscape
Zambia has made strides in digital adoption, becoming one of the few African nations to implement 5G technology and introduce Starlink internet. The government has pledged to eliminate outdated 2G networks in favor of advanced 4G and 5G infrastructure, aiming to close the digital divide and increase productivity across industries. Such initiatives place Zambia on a path to becoming a regional tech leader, enhancing connectivity and fostering innovation in healthcare, education, and business.
Moreover, Zambia’s growing tech hubs, such as BongoHive ,Jacaranda Hub, and Zanaco Innovation Hub, to mention a few, are nurturing startups and tech solutions in areas like fintech, agriculture, and health. For instance, initiatives to promote financial inclusion through digital platforms have already shown significant results. According to a report by the African Development Bank, mobile money penetration in Zambia has increased from 14% in 2016 to over 58% in 2023, reflecting the adoption of locally developed tech solutions.
2. On Economic opportunities
Technology has the potential to revolutionize Zambia’s economy. According to the Minister of Technology, Felix Mutati, digital transformation aligns with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9, fostering inclusive and sustainable industrialization and innovation. By this very year 2024, the Zambian government aims to digitize administrative systems and foster private-sector participation to promote innovations in fintech, data science, and robotics.
Statistics underscore the importance of tech to economic growth: the ICT sector contributes 4.5% to Zambia’s GDP and is projected to grow by 6% annually with consistent government support. Investments in broadband and digital literacy programs could significantly boost employment, particularly for youth and women, who are currently underrepresented in the STEM field. Moreover, the stem field has shown us unprecedented potential amid this climate crisis.
3. On challenges and solutions
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Infrastructure gaps, particularly in rural areas, and limited access to affordable internet hinder widespread adoption of technology. Furthermore, many local innovators face funding constraints and lack support from key stakeholders, leaving their ideas unrealized.
The government needs to prioritize partnerships with local innovators (that I emphasize greatly), offering grants, tax incentives, and incubation programs to encourage innovation. Additionally, a supportive policy framework that ensures equal access to digital resources and protects intellectual property is essential. Empowering SMEs with digital tools can enable them to scale operations, contributing more significantly to GDP.
4. On the role of our local innovators
Zambian innovators have already showcased solutions tailored to local needs. For instance, mobile platforms that address agricultural inefficiencies or financial apps that bridge banking gaps are gaining traction, we have Hero Control Systems Ltd , Cranitech , and BraveLender Software among many to look at. With further backing from government ministries, these innovations could scale to exportable solutions, placing Zambia on the global innovation map.
The wrap
The untapped potential of Zambian tech talent offers a viable pathway to economic liberation. By listening to and investing in local innovators, the government can harness this talent to solve pressing national problems, enhance productivity, and position Zambia as a competitive player in the global digital economy. This requires a concerted effort to foster innovation through infrastructure development, inclusive policies, and targeted investments. If these steps are taken, the synergy between Zambian tech talent and government support could lead to unprecedented growth and development.
Indeed technology has the potential to revolutionize the Zambian economy. And as stated that it contributes to 4.5% to the GDP and projected to grow by 6% annually . Government should support the growth and give consideration and invest in infrastructure that will bridge the gaps especially in rural areas. They should also heed to the solutions that have been showed by the innovators of Zambian tech.