Zambia Injects $1m to Accelerate Digital Transformation

Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating digital transformation, with the Government allocating USD 1 million towards innovation and nationwide connectivity, including the installation of 300 communication towers.

Speaking during a high-level panel at the Innovation and Technology Summit in the Copperbelt, Minister of Technology and Science, Honourable Felix C. Mutati, MP, stressed that funding is readily available, but limited access to information remains the biggest barrier for innovators.

“We must make information accessible. Money is not the problem – information is,” he said, proposing the creation of a user-friendly mobile application to share details on financing opportunities such as the HH Innovation Fund, MindTech, and NTBC, alongside clear guidance on how to apply.

The Minister also encouraged collaboration and mentorship among innovators, noting that “the best teachers for innovation are innovators themselves”. He challenged stakeholders to set measurable targets, declaring that next year’s summit should celebrate the emergence of at least 100 new Copperbelt-based start-ups.

Finnish Ambassador to Zambia, H.E. Saana Halinen, commended the country’s rapid progress in strengthening its innovation ecosystem. She highlighted Finland’s long-standing support through initiatives such as the Southern Africa Innovation Support (SAIS) programme and the AGS project, which have enabled Zambian start-ups to engage in global events, including Slush.

“Zambia no longer needs handholding. You have grown your wings – Finland will be right beside you as you fly,” she said.

UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, Mr Laurent Rudasingwa, outlined the organisation’s continued backing for Zambia’s innovation landscape, through both funding and policy support.
Key interventions include:

• National Innovation Initiative (2021): USD 800,000 awarded to more than 150 innovators.
• University Innovation Pods (Unipods): Including the Mkuba Unipod at Copperbelt University and a second at the University of Zambia, focusing on artificial intelligence.
• MindTech Hub: Providing USD 25,000 grants to young innovators as part of a continental innovation network.

Mr Rudasingwa urged young people to adopt an entrepreneurial mindset, stating: “The future belongs to those who innovate, not those who wait for jobs.”

Key Takeaways from Day 2

• Greater access to information on existing funding opportunities.
• Increased mentorship, peer learning and collaboration among innovators.
• USD 1 million investment in digital infrastructure, including 300 ICT towers.
• Continued support from Finland and UNDP for innovation and policy reforms.
• A bold target of 100 new start-ups from the Copperbelt by the next summit.

Day 2 of the Summit concluded with a collective call to unlock information, expand collaboration and empower Zambia’s youth to lead the nation’s digital transformation and inclusive economic growth.