Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date: 3rd January, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
In a groundbreaking step toward digital transformation, Zambia is set to unveil its open-source Electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) system, built on the Modular Open-Source Identity Platform (MOSIP).
This innovation signifies a major leap in the nation’s efforts to modernize its digital infrastructure and improve service delivery.
Despite challenges such as limited funding, vendor-locked systems and inadequate support for digital public infrastructure (DPI), Zambia has demonstrated remarkable resilience and innovation.
With critical support from the Centre for Digital Public Infrastructure (CDPI) and Co-Develop, the country has surmounted these obstacles, positioning itself as a leader in digital public goods.
The SMART Zambia Institute, under the leadership of National Coordinator Mr. Percy Chinyama, has played a pivotal role in spearheading the eKYC initiative.
By coordinating efforts across government sectors, the institute has ensured the project remained a top priority, even amidst financial constraints.
Zambia’s adoption of open-source solutions has fostered valuable international collaborations. Partners such as MOSIP and OpenG2P have contributed technical expertise, highlighting the transformative potential of collective action in achieving scalable and sustainable digital transformation.
“This achievement is a testament to Zambia’s strong leadership and its commitment to innovative, open-source approaches,” said Pramod Varma, Co-Chair of CDPI. “Zambia’s journey is a model for the continent, demonstrating how collaboration and determination can drive meaningful progress.”
As Zambia prepares to officially launch the eKYC system, the initiative stands as a symbol of technological advancement, resilience and the nation’s determination to create an inclusive digital ecosystem. This milestone reinforces Zambia’s role as a trailblazer in Africa’s digital transformation narrative.
The Agency
