World Bank Launches $100m Digital Project to Boost Jobs and Inclusion in Zambia
The World Bank Group has approved a $100 million grant to Zambia under the Digital Zambia Acceleration Project (DZAP), aimed at expanding affordable internet access and promoting inclusive use of digital services.
The project, funded through the International Development Association (IDA), forms part of the second phase of the regional Inclusive Digitalisation in Eastern and Southern Africa (IDEA) programme, which also includes Angola, Malawi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and COMESA.
With a strong focus on women, girls, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable groups, DZAP seeks to empower citizens through access to e-government services, digital health systems, e-learning platforms, and agriculture tools such as market data and smart farming technologies.
“I am confident that DZAP will enhance digital access, including access to e-government services for faster, more transparent public service delivery,” said Achim Fock, World Bank Country Manager for Zambia.
The initiative is also designed to equip young people and underserved populations with employment-ready digital skills, while strengthening digital public infrastructure to improve governance and service delivery.
According to the World Bank, the project will be delivered through four strategic pillars: expanding broadband access, developing interoperable and secure digital platforms, supporting sectoral digitalisation and skills, and enhancing programme management and capacity building.
Mehnaz Safavian, World Bank Practice Manager for Digital Development in Eastern and Southern Africa, said: “The youth of Zambia are poised to benefit from this project thanks to its support for developing employment-ready digital skills among underserved populations.”
DZAP aligns with Zambia’s Vision 2030 and the World Bank’s Country Partnership Framework (FY25–29), which prioritise job creation, human capital development, and climate resilience.
