By enhancing digital infrastructure and connectivity, initiatives across the continent benefit citizens and contribute to broader advancement. Additionally, connecting with neighboring countries promotes regional integration and collaboration, paving the way for shared prosperity throughout Africa.

Zambia's Information Minister, Felix Mutati (pictured), recently announced plans to connect the country to eight neighboring nations next month via fiber optic cables, according to a May 27th Facebook post by the Ministry. This initiative aims to position Zambia as a regional connectivity hub and bolster the national digital sector.

Minister Mutati highlighted Zambia's existing connection to Angola. “Zambia has completed connecting itself to Angola by optic fiber and the next target is Mozambique,” he said.

According to the World Bank, in its “Accelerating Digital Transformation in Zambia DIGITAL ECONOMY DIAGNOSTIC” 2020 report, Zambia’s Broadband affordability meets international benchmarks, and mobile phone usage has grown to 15.5 million subscriptions in 2019, with 63.5 percent using broadband. The digital infrastructure is established, allowing focus on its utilization, reliability, and security. However, last-mile connectivity remains a gap, limiting digital system use in sparsely populated areas where it could reduce transaction costs and improve access to services and markets. These proactive ICT measures are expected to drive economic growth, enhance connectivity, and solidify Zambia's regional ICT hub status.

Hikmatu Bilali