Zambia Launches 2025 STI Policy to Drive Innovation, Boost Economy, and Embrace Emerging Technologies
Zambia has launched its 2025 Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy, positioning the country to harness cutting-edge technologies and drive inclusive, sustainable development.
The transformative policy was unveiled by the Ministry of Technology and Science in a high-level event attended by government officials, academics, industry leaders, and civil society.
Minister of Technology and Science Hon. Felix Chipota Mutati MP, in his keynote address, emphasized the policy’s role as a national blueprint for growth and global competitiveness.
“When the President talks about exporting $1 billion worth of beef or producing 10 billion tons of maize, he’s pointing to science and innovation as the tools to make it happen,” Hon. Mutati said.
The STI Policy lays out strategic investments and institutional reforms to unlock Zambia’s innovation potential. Over K3 billion will be dedicated to Research and Development (R&D), including the creation of a national research database, upgraded scientific infrastructure, and priority funding for applied research aligned with national needs.
A dedicated allocation of K8 million has been earmarked for Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies to develop regulatory frameworks, educational programs, and awareness campaigns aimed at making Zambia a regional leader in innovation.
Technology commercialization also features prominently in the policy, with plans to establish five new technology transfer offices, innovation hubs, and science parks. A national start-up database and commercialization guidelines will fast-track the growth of technology-based enterprises.
Zambia will also invest in human capital by offering scholarships, exchange programs, and mentorship, aiming to train at least 500 postgraduate students in STEM fields. Special emphasis will be placed on strengthening diaspora engagement and promoting indigenous knowledge systems through legal frameworks and R&D centers.
“Our gross expenditure on R&D will increase from 0.28% to 0.50% by 2029,” Hon. Mutati announced, signaling the government’s long-term commitment to innovation-led development.
Permanent Secretary Eng. Dr Brilliant Habeenzu commended the multi-sector collaboration that shaped the policy. “This is a shared national vision. It is inclusive, forward-looking, and responsive to the rapid global advancements in AI, biotechnology, green technologies, and space science,” he said.
