Ministry of Technology and Science of Zambia and Huawei Launch Global Smart Village Showcase at MWC Barcelona
The Ministry of Technology and Science of Zambia, in collaboration with Huawei, unveiled the global Smart Village Showcase at the MWC Barcelona 2025. The announcement took place during the government industry forum titled Secured, Sovereign & Synergized Network-Cloud Strategy Accelerating National Digitalization.
This groundbreaking event attracted over 200 industry leaders and technical experts, who gathered to discuss the future of national transformation powered by digital technologies.
The Smart Village Showcase marks a significant milestone for Zambia’s rural digitalization efforts, serving as a benchmark for Africa’s digital future. The first smart village site in Zambia, delivered in July 2024, stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to bridging the digital divide.
Huawei’s deployment of micro solar power plants and RuralStar base stations, as well as equipping schools with IdeaHub devices and electronic blackboards, has empowered communities by providing electricity and Internet access to homes, schools, and clinics.
The impact of this initiative extends beyond basic infrastructure. It enables residents to access real-time weather data for improving farming practices, consult doctors through telemedicine, and receive online education. These efforts aim to enhance public services, promote equitable resource distribution, and foster sustainable development across Zambia.
Li Junfeng, Vice President of Huawei and CEO of Global Public Sector BU, highlighted the crucial role of AI in accelerating digital government transformation. He emphasized that AI is key to improving national capabilities and citizens’ well-being. The deep integration of AI, particularly through the use of Huawei’s DeepSeek model, signals a fundamental shift in global production dynamics.
At the forum, Koh Hong-Eng, Global Chief Public Services Industry Scientist at Huawei, moderated a discussion with key government representatives, including Zambia’s Minister of Technology and Science, Felix C. Mutati. Mutati outlined how the Smart Villages Project aligns with Zambia’s Vision 2030, empowering the nation’s next generation with the skills required for success in the fourth industrial revolution.
He stressed that the digital transformation is about people, progress, and potential, with a focus on creating a future where every Zambian can contribute to national development.
Huawei’s commitment to advancing AI, big data, and cloud computing technologies further enhances its role as a leader in ICT infrastructure and smart devices. The company’s efforts aim to create a cognitive society, enhance public service quality, and promote equitable digital opportunities globally.
Through these collaborations, Huawei seeks to ensure that the digital economy benefits everyone and supports governments worldwide in building sustainable, efficient digital societies.
The Smart Village Showcase not only sets a high standard for Zambia’s rural development but also demonstrates Huawei’s role in advancing inclusive connectivity on a global scale.
