Zambia Eyes $60 Billion Economy Driven by ICT and AI
Zambia has reaffirmed its ambition to build a US$60 billion economy powered by technology and artificial intelligence, with the ICTAZ Conference 2026 highlighting the central role of digital transformation in driving national growth.
Republican President, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, in a keynote address, described participation in the conference as a privilege and commended organisers and stakeholders for advancing dialogue on the country’s digital future.
He emphasised that information and communication technology (ICT) is not merely a standalone sector but a strategic enabler underpinning growth across key industries such as mining, agriculture, energy, and governance.
The President underscored government’s commitment to economic transformation, noting that Zambia has the potential to more than double its Gross Domestic Product.
He cited the discovery of a major copper deposit at Mingomba, enabled by artificial intelligence, as a clear demonstration of how technology can unlock economic opportunities.
Mr. Hichilema also highlighted the role of ICT in education and youth empowerment, referencing the reintroduction of free education which has seen over 2.5 million children return to school.
He stressed the importance of leveraging technology to support skills development, job creation, and inclusive growth.
On governance, the President called for increased digitisation to enhance efficiency in public service delivery, improve revenue collection, and reduce bureaucracy. He further pointed to Cabinet’s approval of a 24-hour economy, with ICT expected to play a critical role in enabling continuous operations and digital transactions.
Technology and Science Minister, Hon. Felix Mutati, reinforced the government’s commitment to expanding digital infrastructure and increasing digital consumption, which he said must rise from 40 per cent to 80 per cent to achieve the country’s economic targets.
He highlighted key initiatives including the rollout of free public Wi-Fi under the “HH ZamFree Wi-Fi” programme, expansion of the fibre network to 45,000 kilometres, and the growth of digital hubs supporting youth innovation.
Mr. Mutati also noted growing investor confidence in the sector, evidenced by the successful listing of a technology company on the Lusaka Stock Exchange’s alternative market, and the increasing contribution of ICT to GDP and employment, including over 350,000 mobile money agents.
ICT Association of Zambia (ICTAZ) President, Dr. Clement Sinyangwe, welcomed delegates and praised government support for the sector. He revealed that ICTAZ membership has grown by 400 per cent to over 5,000 professionals, reflecting rapid industry expansion.
Dr. Sinyangwe highlighted major achievements, including the expansion of the Government Wide Area Network to 438 sites, connectivity to 1,290 schools, and the transformation of Zampost into digital hubs serving over 800,000 citizens.
He added that Zambia’s ICT sector had become the largest contributor to GDP between 2024 and 2025.
Dr. Sinyangwe reaffirmed ICTAZ’s commitment to strengthening professional standards, promoting innovation in artificial intelligence and data science, and supporting youth-led digital entrepreneurship.
He also emphasised the importance of bridging the rural-urban digital divide through improved connectivity, affordable devices, and skills development.
The conference concluded with a strong call for collaboration between government and the private sector to accelerate digital adoption, promote locally developed solutions, and ensure inclusive access to technology.
The ICTAZ Conference 2026 ultimately set a clear roadmap for Zambia’s digital transformation, positioning the country as a regional leader in technology and innovation while advancing its goal of achieving a US$60 billion economy.
