Katiulila Ward Connected to the Digital Future with Launch of New Telecommunications Tower
For many years, residents of Katiulila Ward remained excluded from the digital revolution due to limited access to reliable telecommunications and internet services. This digital gap restricted opportunities for education, economic activity, access to government services and participation in Zambia’s broader development agenda.
The commissioning of a new telecommunications tower in the ward has now marked a turning point, integrating the community into the national digital ecosystem for the first time. The development is expected to unlock opportunities in e-learning, digital entrepreneurship, e-health services, and improved agricultural and business practices.
The tower has been designed as a sustainable solution for rural connectivity, operating on solar power and independent of the national electricity grid. This ensures uninterrupted service and addresses longstanding energy challenges common in rural areas, reinforcing government efforts to build inclusive and resilient digital infrastructure.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, emphasised the importance of collaboration between government and the private sector in extending connectivity to underserved communities.
He noted that digital access is no longer a luxury but a necessity, enabling effective government service delivery, financial inclusion and modern education.
With connectivity now available in Katiulila, the Minister said children can access digital learning tools and compete on an equal footing with their peers across the country, ensuring that geography no longer limits opportunity.
The Acting District Commissioner for Katete District, Mr Paul Ngongolo, described the development as a long-awaited milestone for the community. He highlighted the positive impact of connectivity on education, healthcare delivery and emergency response services, particularly for rural health facilities that depend on timely communication.
He also appealed for continued infrastructure development, including improved road networks, to further enhance access to social and economic services.
Meanwhile, the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA), through its representative Mr Elliot Kabalo, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide under the Universal Access Programme.
He said the Katiulila tower forms part of a wider national rollout of communication infrastructure across Eastern Province, benefiting thousands of people, schools, health centres and public institutions.
As the implementing partner, MTN Zambia, through its representative Ms Patience Banda, reiterated the company’s commitment to universal access and rural connectivity.
She described connectivity as a fundamental right and a catalyst for economic growth and social inclusion, adding that MTN would continue investing in the expansion and upgrading of rural network infrastructure.
The commissioning of the Katiulila telecommunications tower is therefore more than an infrastructure milestone. It symbolises inclusion, empowerment and national progress, firmly connecting Katiulila Ward to Zambia’s digital future and ensuring that no community is left behind in the country’s socio-economic transformation.
