Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 14th March, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The 5th Annual TechTrends Zambia Awards took center stage last night at the Mulungushi Conference Centre, recognizing Zambia’s most outstanding contributions to the technology sector. The prestigious event, hosted by TechTrends Zambia, brought together visionaries, entrepreneurs, engineers, software developers, and corporate leaders who are shaping the nation’s digital future.
The event was graced by Dr. Larry Mweetwa, Director of Science, Technology, and Innovation, who represented the Minister of Technology and Science as the Guest of Honor. In his address, he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for technological advancement through strategic investments, policy frameworks, and public-private partnerships.
Since its inception as a virtual event in 2016, the TechTrends Zambia Awards have grown into a premier platform for recognizing innovation, resilience, and ingenuity in the country’s tech ecosystem. After a brief hiatus, the awards were revived in 2021, coinciding with an era of rapid digital transformation.
Today, Zambia’s technology sector continues to thrive, with remarkable milestones including:
- Internet penetration reaching 64.3% as of 2024
- Over 9 million mobile users driving financial inclusion
- A fintech sector expanding by over 20% annually, fueled by digital payments
- The ICT sector contributing an estimated 6% to the national GDP
These achievements highlight the country’s growing influence in key sectors such as FinTech, E-commerce, Digital Health, EdTech, and AgriTech, underscoring Zambia’s potential as a regional leader in digital transformation.
Dr. Mweetwa outlined the government’s long-term vision for Zambia’s digital future, emphasizing key focus areas:
- Legislative and Policy Frameworks
The upcoming Startup Bill aims to empower young entrepreneurs and foster innovation-driven enterprises.
- Expanding Digital Infrastructure
In partnership with the private sector, Zambia is expanding broadband access with a goal of 100% national coverage by 2030.
- Public-Private Partnerships & Investment in Innovation
Collaborations with global tech giants are enhancing digital infrastructure.
The Smart Zambia Initiative is accelerating e-government services, streamlining public administration, and reducing bureaucracy.
- STEM Education & Skills Development
Zambia is prioritizing skills in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cybersecurity, Software Development, and Data Analytics to equip the workforce for the future.
With digital economies booming across Africa in countries like Kenya, South Africa, and Rwanda, Zambia is focused on ensuring it remains competitive. The country’s AI Strategy is now operational, and efforts are being intensified to:
- Adopt emerging technologies such as AI, Blockchain, and IoT.
- Align policies with international best practices to foster a globally competitive digital economy.
- Leverage platforms like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to promote Zambia’s digital exports.
The Awards served as a powerful reminder that Zambia’s digital transformation requires a collaborative and multi-sectoral approach. A successful tech-driven economy will depend on:
- Government: Creating an enabling policy environment for investment in digital infrastructure.
- Private Sector: Driving innovation and generating employment opportunities.
- Academia: Developing a talent pipeline through research and development.
- Startups & Entrepreneurs: Pioneering cutting-edge solutions for national development.
As the night ended in celebration, participants were challenged to push the boundaries of innovation, embrace disruptive technologies, and contribute to a Zambia that leads Africa’s digital revolution. With dedication, passion, and ingenuity, the nation is poised to build a smarter, more connected, and digitally empowered future.
The Agency.