Zambia to Enhance Connectivity with 300 New Communication Towers by End of 2024
Technology and Science Minister Hon. Felix Mutati has announced the completion of 300 communication towers by the end of 2024. These towers are being constructed through a collaborative effort between the government, mobile phone providers, and private partners.
Minister Mutati highlighted the remarkable 28 percent growth in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector and the increase in mobile money transactions to K460 billion in 2023.
He emphasized the government’s commitment to further enhancing connectivity to integrate more Zambians into the digital economy and improve access to online services.
Speaking at the inaugural ICT Consumer Dialogue Forum in Lusaka, organized by the Zambia Information Communication Technology Authority (ZICTA), Minister Mutati underscored the importance of making online services accessible and providing digital literacy to protect citizens from online threats.
He urged ZICTA to propose measures to ensure internet safety, particularly against scammers and those spreading hate speech.
ZICTA Director General Choolwe Nalubamba highlighted the forum’s focus on addressing the impact of the current drought on the ICT sector and called for collaboration to overcome these challenges.
Meta Regional Representative Thabo Makenete, addressing the forum virtually, stated that the company is intensifying efforts to combat fraudsters and hackers, noting a rise in account hackings on Facebook and WhatsApp leading to financial scams.
International Telecommunications Union Regional Director Dr. Emmanuel Manasseh warned about the potential negative effects of smart devices, such as gambling and excessive gaming, and stressed the need for consumer education to promote cautious use of these devices.
