Zambia Set to Boost Innovation with AI Strategy and Startup Bill
President Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to fostering innovation through the soon-to-be-finalized Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy and Startup Bill.
Speaking at the 2024 Tech Expo and Copperbelt University Challenge, his remarks, delivered by Education Minister Douglas Syakalima, emphasized that these two key policy frameworks will offer both the legal and strategic direction needed to harness and scale innovative ideas into sustainable solutions for the country.
The President stressed that the government is heavily invested in creating an environment where youth-driven innovation can thrive, particularly in science and technology.
He underscored the critical role of research and development in driving this agenda, hinting at the government’s ongoing plans to support both individual innovators and the broader technology ecosystem.
In addition, President Hichilema extended gratitude to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for selecting Zambia as the host of Minetech, a center of excellence in mining technology. The facility, which aims to tackle key challenges facing Africa’s mining sector, is set to position Zambia as a leader in continental mining innovation.
Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati disclosed that the Zambian government has invested $3 million, alongside the UNDP’s $6 million contribution, into the Minetech initiative.
He expressed optimism that this center will become a hub for solving Africa’s complex mining issues, with a focus on leveraging emerging technologies like AI and automation.
UNDP Resident Representative James Wakiaga lauded the Zambian government’s continued investment in the STEM fields and its focus on youth-driven sustainable solutions.
He noted the importance of the government’s efforts to increase female participation in STEM disciplines, which aligns with broader UNDP goals of gender parity in science and technology.
With the upcoming launch of the Minetech hub, Zambia is positioning itself as a significant player in the regional innovation landscape, especially in tech-driven sectors like mining. This bold direction, bolstered by AI and startup policy, marks a forward-thinking step towards future-proofing the country’s economy through innovation.
