SMART Zambia Trains Southern Province Local Authorities on GWAN Shared Services
The Electronic Government (SMART Zambia Institute), in partnership with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Southern Province, has launched a week-long training for local authorities on the Government Wide Area Network (GWAN) and shared digital services in Livingstone.
This initiative, starting today, aims to empower local authority officers with the necessary skills to effectively utilize shared digital services and internet connectivity within their operations. Shared digital services, in this context, refer to the use of common ICT platforms, applications, and resources across various governmental departments, enhancing collaboration, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
Mr. Mainza Sikaale, the Acting Provincial Local Government Officer, stated that the training is structured into groups of three, allowing participants from all 15 local authorities in Southern Province to benefit from this crucial capacity-building exercise.
Ms. Joyce Mushiko, Principal ICT Officer for SMART Zambia, explained that the program will train five officers from each local authority, totaling 75 participants. Among those being trained are ICT officers, internal auditors, procurement officers, human resource personnel, and accountants, ensuring that the program covers a broad range of expertise needed to enhance service delivery.
“The training will be facilitated by six officers from SMART Zambia Institute, focusing on equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to integrate digital solutions into their daily operations,” Ms. Mushiko elaborated.
This initiative aligns with Zambia’s digital transformation goals and aims to improve public service delivery, boost economic growth, and enhance citizen engagement through the use of digital platforms like GWAN. The program further underscores SMART Zambia’s dedication to advancing digital literacy within local government structures, fostering a culture of digital innovation across the public sector.
Southern Province, Zambia’s third-largest region, comprises 15 districts, including Livingstone, the home of the iconic Mosi-oa-Tunya (Victoria Falls). The province’s capital was moved from Livingstone to Choma in 2012.
