It’s Kopala 100 Summit Launched to Accelerate Start-ups and Innovation in Zambia
The Ministry of Technology and Science, through the National Technology Business Centre (NTBC), has officially launched the 2026 edition of the It’s Kopala 100 Summit, a flagship initiative aimed at strengthening Zambia’s innovation ecosystem and accelerating technology-driven growth.
The summit, scheduled to take place in Kitwe from 29 to 30 April, is expected to bring together start-ups, policymakers, investors, industry leaders and development partners. It will provide a platform for showcasing innovative solutions, fostering partnerships and unlocking investment opportunities.
Speaking at the media launch, Permanent Secretary Eng. Dr Brilliant Habeenzu, who served as Guest of Honour, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to innovation as a key pillar under the Eighth National Development Plan.
He said the initiative reflects efforts to build a resilient, inclusive and knowledge-based economy that promotes entrepreneurship, empowers young people and creates sustainable employment.
Dr Habeenzu highlighted the role of the NTBC in supporting start-ups and facilitating technology commercialisation, noting that previous platforms have successfully connected innovators to funding and market opportunities.
However, he acknowledged ongoing challenges, including limited access to finance, low visibility and gaps in investment readiness.
He said the It’s Kopala 100 initiative has been designed as a structured intervention to address these barriers by enhancing the visibility of Zambian start-ups, catalysing investment and strengthening collaboration within the innovation ecosystem.
“The summit is not just an event, but a continuous process that includes start-up identification, capacity-building boot camps, investor engagement and post-summit follow-ups to ensure lasting impact,” he said.
Dr Habeenzu also emphasised the importance of decentralising innovation by hosting the event on the Copperbelt, adding that this approach will help expand opportunities beyond Lusaka.
Finnish Ambassador to Zambia, Her Excellency Saana Halinen, described the summit as an important and growing platform for innovation and collaboration. She noted that the initiative draws inspiration from Finland’s globally recognised Slush event, and builds on the success of previous editions held in Lusaka and Kitwe.
She said the platform offers start-ups an opportunity to present emerging ideas to investors, particularly those with the potential to shape Zambia’s future. She also stressed the importance of inclusivity, noting that diverse participation across gender, age and backgrounds is essential for solving complex challenges.
Speaking on behalf of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Ms Chali Selisho reaffirmed the organisation’s support for Zambia’s innovation agenda.
She said the 2026 summit builds on the success of the inaugural 2025 event and aims to connect 100 start-ups with investors through curated engagements, mentorship and access to incubation and acceleration programmes.
Ms Selisho added that UNDP continues to support local innovation through initiatives such as Timbuktoo, Mukuba Unipod and the upcoming Artificial Intelligence Innovation Hub.
She emphasised that innovation goes beyond technology, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and collaboration in driving sustainable development and ensuring that no one is left behind.
