Zambia Opens 2025 National Science Conference
The Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix C. Mutati, MP, officially opened the 2025 Zambia Science Conference on 26 November 2025 at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka.
The conference is being held under the theme “Harnessing STI for a Resilient Zambia: Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Growth and Inclusive Development.” It brings together scientists, policymakers, industry experts and youth innovators to collectively develop home-grown solutions for national challenges.
In his remarks, Hon. Mutati acknowledged the presence of the Minister of Education, Hon. Douglas Siakalima, along with board members from the University of Zambia, the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), and researchers committed to strengthening science, technology and innovation in the country.
He highlighted the efforts of President Hakainde Hichilema, who has tasked the Ministry with using technology to increase national production, including achieving 3 million tonnes of copper, US$1 billion in beef exports, and 10 million metric tonnes of maize.
Hon. Mutati cited examples from Kalumbila, where science and technology are central to mining operations. He pointed to the use of artificial intelligence for autonomous drilling, coordination of heavy machinery, and drone technology for mineral exploration—tools that enhance safety, improve efficiency and support production targets.
The Minister noted five key success factors needed to strengthen the STI ecosystem. These include stronger coordination to inform the national research agenda; clearly defined priorities that guide research and financing; improved research and digital infrastructure; increased development of human capital; and greater funding for innovation to ensure ideas translate into tangible solutions for industry.
Minister of Education, Hon. Douglas Siakalima, reaffirmed that the conference theme aligns well with his ministry’s vision of advancing science and technology as the foundation of national development. He noted that measures have been put in place to strengthen STEM learning and career development to prepare learners for science and innovation-driven futures.
He commended the Ministry of Technology and Science and the NSTC for their leadership in promoting science and innovation across the country, stressing the importance of using local solutions to address local challenges.
Permanent Secretary for Technology and Science, Eng. Dr Brilliant Habeenzu, observed that about 70% of the world’s best-performing economies are driven by science and technology, compared to less than 1% in Africa.
He encouraged participants to reflect on how STI can anchor Zambia’s resilience in food systems, energy, security, digital transformation, biotechnology and industrialisation. He emphasised the importance of strengthening research collaboration and building a robust national innovation ecosystem.
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Zambia, Prof. Mundia Muya, stated that the conference serves as a reflective platform for assessing Zambia’s progress in STI. He linked its objectives to the 8th National Development Plan, Vision 2030 and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which place innovation at the centre of economic transformation.
Prof. Muya called for purposeful research to address challenges in climate resilience, agriculture, mining, digital transformation, biotechnology, health systems and cultural preservation.
Prof. Muya outlined five strategic areas for strengthening STI: developing high-level human capital; implementing institutional reforms to improve research excellence; expanding entrepreneurship and technology transfer, including through AI hubs at UNZA and CBU; strengthening national and global partnerships; and translating research outputs into practical solutions such as renewable energy innovations, improved health diagnostics, climate modelling and enhanced crop varieties.
NSTC Board Chairperson, Prof. Sodi Munsaka, highlighted the importance of investing in youth, whom he described as the engine of science, technology and innovation. He called for increased research funding to ensure impactful innovations, stating that science must deliver solutions that benefit everyone.
