The National Digital Transformation Strategy for Zambia (2023-2027)

The National Digital Transformation Strategy for Zambia, covering the period from 2023 to 2027, is structured to create a coordinated approach to building a digital economy. This strategy aims to integrate digital technologies across all sectors to enhance productivity, create jobs, and promote economic growth. It is grounded in Zambia’s long-term vision, as outlined in Vision 2030, to transform the nation into a digitally empowered society.

The strategy identifies five main pillars for digital transformation: Digital Infrastructure, Digital Platforms, Digital Services, Digital Literacy and Skills, and Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship. These pillars serve as the core areas that need enhancement to realise a fully functional digital economy in Zambia. Each of these pillars addresses specific areas of development and focuses on removing barriers to digital adoption while building the necessary infrastructure and skills.

The approach includes developing digital infrastructure, such as expanding broadband coverage and increasing the number of communication towers and data centres. The aim is to ensure widespread access to reliable internet services, especially in rural areas, thus bridging the digital divide. Moreover, the strategy emphasises upgrading the existing telecommunications network to support new technologies like 4G and the Internet of Things (IoT).

When it comes to digital platforms, the strategy focuses on developing and integrating digital systems that can streamline services across government and private sectors. It emphasises interoperability and cost-reduction in platform development, aiming for greater efficiency and coordination among stakeholders. This part of the strategy seeks to enhance the user experience and service delivery through platforms that facilitate transactions, e-government services, and the integration of public sector processes.

Digital services are central to the strategy, emphasising their role in improving service delivery and reaching more citizens. This includes fostering the digitalisation of services in critical sectors like health, agriculture, education, and finance. The goal is to create a more accessible digital service ecosystem, allowing businesses and citizens to access services efficiently. Efforts include expanding mobile money services, promoting the use of digital IDs, and facilitating affordable access to digital tools for citizens.

A key focus of the strategy is building digital literacy and skills. The government plans to enhance digital education through ICT integration in schools and creating digital transformation centers. The aim is to produce a workforce with the necessary digital competencies, from basic digital literacy to advanced skills in areas such as artificial intelligence, data analytics, and cybersecurity. This ensures that both the existing and upcoming workforce are well-equipped to engage in the digital economy.

In fostering digital innovation and entrepreneurship, the strategy seeks to create an environment conducive to startups and innovators. This includes establishing innovation hubs, offering support through policies and financing, and promoting research and development activities that align with Zambia’s economic priorities. The strategy acknowledges the importance of supporting innovative solutions, particularly those that address local challenges, to enhance Zambia’s competitive edge in the digital space.

Implementation of the strategy follows a multistakeholder approach, involving collaboration between government ministries, private sector partners, and international development agencies. The Ministry of Technology and Science plays a central role in coordinating efforts across different sectors. A comprehensive framework for monitoring and evaluating progress is in place to ensure accountability and transparency throughout the strategy’s execution. This includes regular reporting and a mid-term evaluation to measure outcomes against set targets.

The strategy also recognises the critical role of policy and regulation as enablers of digital transformation. It aims to create a supportive legal environment for digital businesses and services while addressing challenges like cybersecurity, data protection, and regulatory overlaps. This approach ensures that the digital ecosystem operates smoothly and that new technologies can be adopted efficiently without compromising data security and user privacy.