Google Enters Zambian ICT Sector
The American tech giant Google has made its foray into Zambia’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) landscape, aiming to revolutionize the sector with new advancements.
This move comes on the heels of government incentives aimed at bolstering private sector investment.
Through its subsidiary, Google Cloud, the company has inked a Memorandum of Understanding with Zambia’s Ministry of Technology and Science.
This agreement paves the way for the establishment of a Center of Excellence focused on digital transformation and innovation. Key initiatives include skills development and knowledge-sharing programs aimed at empowering local talent.
During the signing ceremony, Technology and Science Minister Hon. Felix Mutati highlighted the impact of recent incentives on the sector, noting a significant rise in internet penetration from 53% to 64% over the past year.
He attributed this growth to private sector initiatives, including the laying of 5,000 kilometers of fiber optic cables. This effort brings Zambia’s total fiber optic network to 25,000 kilometers since independence in 1964, marking a substantial boost in connectivity.
“The incentives provided to the private sector have spurred remarkable growth in internet penetration and the introduction of 5G technology,” remarked Mr. Mutati. “These developments have attracted Google to invest in our ICT space.”
The Minister expressed optimism about the potential benefits of Google Cloud’s presence in Zambia, anticipating improvements in people’s lives through enhanced technological capabilities.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to leveraging opportunities presented by Artificial Intelligence (AI) for national development.
Manuel Greisinger, Director of Global Strategic Initiatives at Google Cloud, highlighted the company’s role in connecting Zambia to the UMOJA fiber optic project. This initiative, spanning from Kenya to Australia via South Africa, is set to accelerate Zambia’s adaptation to AI technologies.
In closing, Mr. Greisinger affirmed Google Cloud’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s digital transformation journey, underscoring the company’s strategic investments in advancing ICT infrastructure and capabilities across the region.
