Cross-Border Fibre Project Enhances Digital Growth for Zambia and Mozambique
Bayobab Zambia and Vodacom Mozambique have commemorated the successful completion of the Zambia–Mozambique Fibre Interconnection Project at the Chanida Border, marking a major milestone in strengthening regional digital infrastructure and connectivity in Southern Africa.
The project follows the signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding between the two companies to interconnect their fibre optic networks. The interconnection is expected to enhance cross-border data traffic, improve network resilience and accelerate digital transformation across both countries.
The commemoration ceremony was attended by Zambia’s Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, and Mozambique’s Minister of Communications and Digital Transformation, Américo Muchanga, alongside senior government officials, the Governor of Tete Province and representatives from the private sector.
Minister Mutati described the occasion as historic, noting that the Chanida interconnection strengthens Zambia’s regional digital footprint and brings the country’s total fibre connectivity to eight neighbouring states.
He said this positions Zambia among the most digitally interconnected countries in Southern Africa.
He further highlighted Zambia’s plans to extend connectivity beyond the region, including future fibre links to Burundi and broader continental networks, emphasising that digital infrastructure is central to transforming African economies and improving citizens’ livelihoods.
The Minister commended Bayobab Zambia and Vodacom Mozambique for their investment and commitment, while underscoring the role of both governments in creating an enabling environment through sound policies, legal frameworks and progressive regulation.
He cited the removal of import duties on digital infrastructure equipment as a deliberate measure by the Zambian Government to stimulate investment and network expansion.
Minister Mutati outlined Zambia’s digital transformation agenda, anchored on five pillars: digital skills development, innovation and creativity, efficient delivery of government services, inclusive connectivity for rural and underserved communities, and economic growth driven by digital enablement.
He stressed that none of these pillars can be achieved without robust digital infrastructure.
Reflecting on bilateral relations, the Minister highlighted the longstanding friendship between Zambia and Mozambique, recalling Mozambique’s support during Zambia’s energy and transport challenges.
He said the spirit of cooperation, symbolised by “Tulipo – we are here,” continues to guide joint development efforts between the two nations.
