Government Unveils $1.5 Billion Rural Electrification Roadmap for Universal Energy Access

By Daily News Reporter 

At the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, a familiar development challenge met a renewed national ambition: how to ensure that every Zambian, regardless of location, has access to electricity.

The answer, presented during the launch of the Updated Rural Electrification Master Plan (REMP) 2025–2030, signals one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure commitments in recent years—a decisive shift toward universal electricity access by 2030.

Speaking at the Launch of the Updated Rural Electrification Master Plan (REMP), Minister of Energy Hon. Makozo Chikote described the plan as more than a technical roadmap, calling it a “national development instrument” designed to unlock economic potential and improve livelihoods across rural Zambia.

For years, Zambia’s rural electrification efforts were guided by a 51 percent access target. That benchmark has now been retired.

In its place, government has adopted a far more ambitious goal: 100 percent electricity access within the decade.

MR Chikote said that the shift reflects changing realities—rising rural populations, expanding economic activity outside urban centres, and increasing demand for energy in agriculture, education, and healthcare.

The new direction also aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 7 and Zambia’s broader Vision 2030 agenda, which positions energy as a cornerstone of inclusive development.

At the centre of the updated strategy is a significant change in planning philosophy.

Instead of relying heavily on national grid expansion alone, the plan introduces a least-cost, technology-neutral approach, allowing different energy solutions to be deployed based on local conditions.

Under this model Mr Chikote highlighted the following are of focus,

Grid extension will serve viable high-demand corridors,

Mini-grids will power clustered rural settlements,

Solar home systems will reach remote and dispersed household

This flexible framework is designed to ensure efficiency, affordability, and faster delivery of electricity to underserved communities.

And Rural Electrification Authority (REA) Chief Executive Officer Mr Alex Mbumba stated that under the Rural Electrification Authority, will lead implementation using advanced geospatial mapping systems to guide investment decisions.

A standout feature of the new plan is the introduction of a dynamic geospatial planning platform, replacing static, paper-based planning models.

He also added that the system will allow authorities to Track electrification gaps in real time and update project data dynamically, Reduce duplication of infrastructure, improve targeting of investments.

He added that this marks a shift toward evidence-based, data-driven electrification planning—ensuring that resources follow need with greater precision.

And the roadmap of the project estimates that US$1.52 billion will be required between 2025 and 2030 to achieve universal access.

While the state will continue to provide leadership and regulatory oversight, the private sector is expected to play a central role in financing and implementation.

Also Mr Chikote emphasized that the plan is designed as an investment-ready roadmap, offering structured opportunities for developers, investors, and development partners.

He repeatedly stressed that electrification is not an end in itself, but a catalyst for broader development.

Expanded electricity access is expected to:

Boost rural enterprise development, Enhance agricultural productivity and value addition.

In this vision, electricity becomes the foundation for inclusive economic transformation.

The success of the plan, officials noted, will depend on collaboration across government, cooperating partners, civil society, traditional leadership, and the private sector.

The development process itself was highly consultative, involving multiple stakeholders, technical experts, and support institutions that helped refine the final framework.

Government says this inclusive approach has strengthened both the technical quality and implementation readiness of the plan.

As the launch concluded, one message stood out: Zambia’s challenge is no longer planning, but delivery.

The Updated REMP 2025–2030 now moves the country into an execution phase where success will be measured not by policy documents, but by illuminated homes, powered schools, and energized rural economies.

If achieved, the plan will mark a historic shift—transforming electricity from a privilege of geography into a universal right of citizenship in Zambia.

 Zambia’s Climate Voice Goes Global as Nzovu Wins Top UAE Honour

By Daily News Reporter 

LUSAKA – In a moment that underscores Zambia’s rising influence in global climate diplomacy, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu, MP, has been conferred with the prestigious First Class Order of Zayed II by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, in recognition of his instrumental role in shaping landmark outcomes at the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28).

The award highlights Nzovu’s tenure as Minister of Green Economy and Environment, during which he emerged as one of Africa’s leading voices in the push for climate justice—particularly the long-sought establishment of a global Loss and Damage Fund to support countries most affected by climate change.

Speaking to the Media in Lusaka Mr. Nzovu described the recognition as “not only personal, but a reflection of Zambia’s growing leadership in global climate negotiations.”

Nzovu’s climate diplomacy journey gained momentum in 2021 when he was appointed Minister of Green Economy and Environment by President Hakainde Hichilema. That same year, he attended his first Conference of the Parties—COP26 in Glasgow—where he was elected Chair of the African Group of Negotiators at Ministerial Level.

COP26 marked an important but incomplete step in the global climate finance debate. While countries failed to establish a dedicated loss and damage financing mechanism, the conference produced the Glasgow Climate Pact, which initiated a three-year dialogue on the issue and included a £1 million seed pledge from the host government.

For Nzovu and African negotiators, however, it was only the beginning of a more determined push.

At COP27 in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, Nzovu played a central coordinating role as Chair of the African Group of Negotiators, rallying ministers across the continent behind a unified position.

For the first time in climate negotiations, world parties agreed to establish a dedicated Loss and Damage Fund, a breakthrough widely regarded as a turning point in global climate equity discussions. A Transitional Committee was also formed to design the fund’s operational structure, governance, and funding modalities.

Over the following year, the 24-member committee held multiple technical meetings and workshops, working through complex political and financial questions that had stalled progress for decades.

The breakthrough was completed at COP28 in Dubai in 2023, where the fund was officially operationalised on the opening day of the summit. Countries adopted the recommendations of the Transitional Committee, formally establishing the governing instrument of the fund.

The decision marked a historic milestone in global climate governance, transforming years of advocacy into a functioning international financing mechanism.

Nzovu credited the achievement to sustained African coordination and global cooperation, noting that “climate justice is no longer a demand on the margins—it is now part of the global system.”

Under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, Zambia’s participation at COP28 was strategically anchored on securing climate financing, accelerating green growth, and attracting investment into renewable energy, agriculture, and water development.

At the global leadership level, President Hichilema also played a key role within African coordination efforts that contributed to the conclusion of the Global Stocktake, a critical assessment of global progress toward climate goals.

He further championed structured carbon markets aimed at ensuring that communities protecting forests are fairly compensated, while unlocking economic value from Zambia’s vast natural resources.

Nzovu also paid tribute to the technical expertise and institutional support that underpinned Zambia’s negotiating success.

He highlighted the work of the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, led by Permanent Secretary Douty Chibamba, and supported by senior technical staff including Ephraim Shitima.

Working closely with African partners, the team helped shape the final architecture of the Loss and Damage Fund, which has since attracted more than US$800 million in pledged contributions to assist vulnerable countries facing climate-induced disasters.

The First Class Order of Zayed II adds an international dimension to Nzovu’s work, symbolising not only individual achievement but also Zambia’s growing reputation as a constructive and influential player in global environmental diplomacy.

The honour reflects a broader shift in global climate negotiations—one in which African voices are increasingly shaping outcomes rather than responding to them.

As climate impacts intensify across the continent, Zambia’s role in securing mechanisms for climate compensation and resilience funding signals a new era of engagement—one where negotiation translates into tangible global financial architecture.

“The work of implementation, accountability, and ensuring that vulnerable communities actually benefit from these decisions is what lies ahead,” he noted.

 Procurement Professionals Credited With Growth, But Skills Gaps Threaten Progress

By Daily News Reporter 

The Zambia Institute of Procurement and Supply (ZIPS) says procurement and supply professionals are playing a vital role in driving national development, but warns that significant gaps remain in the sector.

ZIPS President Daniel Kabamba credited procurement practitioners for improving transparency and efficiency in project execution, particularly in the use of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). 

He noted that local authorities have recorded progress in CDF utilisation, while infrastructure projects and service delivery have benefited from stronger procurement systems and adherence to procedures.

Kabamba also pointed to the mining sector, where procurement professionals have supported production growth through innovation and resilience, helping Zambia move closer to its copper output targets. He added that audit findings show improvements in stores management, reflecting the impact of training and capacity-building programmes.

 NCC Sets New Quality Bar for Zambia’s Construction Industry

By Daily News Reporter 

The National Council for Construction (NCC) has called for strengthened accountability, professionalism, and improved construction standards as Zambia moves to enhance the quality of infrastructure and increase local participation in major projects.

Speaking during the 12th Combined Graduation Ceremony at the New Government Complex in Lusaka, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Albert Malama, said government is addressing structural barriers that have limited the participation of local contractors in large-scale infrastructure projects.

Prof. Malama noted that while most registered contractors are Zambian-owned, their involvement in major projects remains low, underscoring the need for increased capacity building, improved access to financing, and expanded skills development.

He emphasized that infrastructure development remains a cornerstone of national growth, with roads, bridges, housing, and public facilities playing a critical role in economic transformation and social inclusion.

“The knowledge and competencies acquired by graduates will contribute directly to improving standards within the construction industry and enhancing the quality of infrastructure delivered across the country,” he said.

Prof. Malama also revealed that government is rolling out policy and regulatory reforms, including subcontracting and project registration statutory instruments, aimed at promoting local participation and ensuring effective skills transfer in the sector.

He highlighted the expansion of training programmes, including diplomas in Highway Engineering and Building Construction Works Monitoring and Management, as well as Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training (TEVET) and short-term courses, as key interventions to strengthen the construction workforce.

The Permanent Secretary further expressed concern over the low participation of women in the sector, calling for deliberate efforts to promote gender inclusion and broaden access to opportunities.

Meanwhile, NCC Board Chairperson Ngenda Situmbeko said the council remains committed to raising standards through strengthened regulation, training, and oversight.

He warned that substandard construction poses significant risks to public safety and undermines confidence in the industry, stressing that integrity and accountability are essential.

“The demand for quality infrastructure, climate-resilient structures, and value for money continues to grow,” Eng. Situmbeko said.

He urged graduates to embrace professionalism, adhere to safety and quality standards, and remain adaptable through innovation and continuous learning.

NCC Executive Director Paul L. K. Makasa described the construction sector as a key driver of socio-economic development and encouraged graduates to uphold competence, discipline, and integrity as they enter the workforce.

Prof. Makasa said the council has continued to strengthen skills development through the National Construction School, which trained participants under diploma and short-term programmes in 2025.

“The skills you have acquired must be used to build quality infrastructure and create opportunities for others,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Wendy Mukape called for stronger collaboration between government, industry players, and cooperating partners to enhance skills development.

She said the National Construction School is focused on producing industry-ready graduates through practical training in areas such as road construction, building works, plant operations, and site supervision.

Mukape added that the institution aims to become a Centre of Excellence in construction training, but emphasized the need for continued partnerships and stakeholder support.

The ceremony brought together graduates, government officials, and industry stakeholders, marking another step in Zambia’s efforts to strengthen its construction sector and deliver durable, high-quality infrastructure.

(c) All Rights Reserved.

Teachers, Students Urged to Monetise Skills Through Nzelu App

By Daily News Reporter 

 Standard Chartered Bank Zambia has called on teachers and students to harness digital platforms to market their skills and drive innovation in the education sector, following the launch of the Nzelu mobile application.

Speaking at the event, Christine Matambo, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing for Zambia and Southern Africa at Standard Chartered Bank Zambia, emphasized the transformative potential of technology in redefining teaching and learning.

Matambo said the Nzelu App presents a unique opportunity for educators and learners to not only access knowledge but also monetize their expertise by offering professional teaching services through digital means.

“This platform is more than just an educational tool—it is a gateway for students and teachers to showcase and sell their skills, while contributing to the growth of a knowledge-based economy,” she said.

She further encouraged women in the teaching profession to take advantage of such innovations, noting that digital platforms can help amplify their ideas and unlock new opportunities for professional growth.

Matambo stressed that empowering women through innovation is critical to achieving inclusive development, particularly in sectors such as education where women make up a significant portion of the workforce.

The launch of the Nzelu App marks a significant step toward integrating technology into Zambia’s education system, with stakeholders optimistic that it will bridge gaps in access to quality learning and create new income streams for educators.

Education experts and stakeholders at the event hailed the initiative as timely, especially as the country continues to explore digital solutions to enhance teaching standards and student outcomes.

The Nzelu App is expected to provide a dynamic platform for collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and entrepreneurship among teachers and students across Zambia.

[09/04, 14:45] Alain AK-47: Teachers, Students Urged to Monetise Skills Through Nzelu App

 From Delay to Delivery: BETUZ Keeps Promise to Teachers

By Daily News Reporter 

The Basic Education Teachers Union of Zambia (BETUZ) has announced the rollout of 90,000 rebranded wrappers to teachers across the country, fulfilling a commitment made earlier this year.

Speaking during of anviling of wrappers in Lusaka on Wednesday, BETUZ General Secretary Henry Sinkala confirmed that the wrappers have already been dispatched to all ten provinces and are scheduled for distribution in the first week of the upcoming school term.

The wrappers were initially procured for the International Women's Day commemorations but faced delays due to logistical challenges. The union had previously apologized to its members and assured them that the distribution would proceed once the issues were resolved.

Mr. Sinkala said the timing of the distribution was deliberately set to avoid disrupting ongoing end-of-term assessments in schools. He expressed gratitude to union members for their patience and understanding during the delay.

“This initiative is more than just a distribution exercise—it is a symbol of unity, dignity, and our commitment to improving the welfare of teachers across Zambia,” he said.

He added that the redesigned wrappers reflect BETUZ’s vision of modernization and excellence within the teaching profession, while also reinforcing the union’s identity.

The initiative forms part of BETUZ’s broader agenda to enhance teacher welfare and promote quality education nationwide. The union recently showcased its efforts during the ANTUSA Livingstone gathering, which was attended by key stakeholders, including Hakainde Hichilema.

Education stakeholders have welcomed the move, noting that such initiatives contribute to boosting morale among teachers, who play a critical role in shaping the country’s future.

The distribution is expected to reach thousands of educators across Zambia, marking a significant step in BETUZ’s continued engagement with its membership and its commitment to delivering on promises.

(c) All Rights Reserved.

 Inside the Classroom Shaping Zambia’s Next Generation of Lawmakers

By Daily News Reporter 

In a quiet training room in Lusaka, far from the charged atmosphere of campaign rallies and political slogans, a different kind of politics is taking shape—one rooted not in promises, but in purpose.

Here, aspiring Members of Parliament sit side by side, notebooks open, listening intently as facilitators unpack the realities of legislative work. There are no cheering crowds, no party regalia—just a shared recognition that leadership requires more than ambition.

This is the setting of a capacity-building workshop organised by the Zambia Centre for Interparty Dialogue (ZCID) in partnership with the Institute of Parliamentary Studies and Training—an initiative designed to prepare aspiring candidates for the complex responsibilities of Parliament.

At the heart of the training is a simple but often misunderstood idea: being an MP is not the same as being in the Executive.

“Many candidates go into elections with good intentions but limited understanding of their actual mandate,” explains Tenison Nyangu, Executive Director of the Institute. “They promise to fix everything—from roads to jobs—when some of these responsibilities lie outside Parliament.”

For years, Zambian elections have been marked by ambitious campaign promises—some achievable, others not. The result has often been frustration among voters and pressure on MPs to deliver beyond their constitutional role.

According to Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly (Administration), Seage Samwika, this gap between expectation and reality weakens democratic accountability.

“Parliament’s effectiveness depends on how well its members understand their roles,” he says.

 “Law-making, oversight, and representation are not just concepts—they are the foundation of our democracy.”

Participants are taken through these pillars in detail, learning how laws are formulated, how government actions are scrutinised, and how constituencies are represented without overstepping institutional boundaries.

Among the participants is Ms. Brenda J Kibombwe Chitembure, an aspiring candidate from Chilanga Constituency. Like many others, she entered the programme with a strong desire to solve community problems—but is now rethinking how best to do so.

“In our communities, people expect an MP to solve personal and immediate problems,” she reflects. “But this training is helping us understand that our role is also to create systems and policies that bring lasting change.”

Chilanga one of Lusaka’s most densely populated areas, faces persistent challenges—poor sanitation, flooding, and  many other iissues. Rather than making sweeping promises, Ms Kibombwe now speaks of community-driven initiatives and legislative advocacy.

Her proposed “Keep Chilanga Clean” campaign, she says, will rely not just on local mobilisation, but on pushing for stronger policies and accountability frameworks.

Yet even as the programme builds capacity, it also exposes deeper structural issues. Of the 15 participants, only four are women—a statistic that organisers say reflects broader gender imbalances in politics.

And Seage Samwika raised the concern, pointing to the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act No. 13 of 2025, which includes provisions aimed at promoting affirmative action.

“This is not very encouraging,” he admits. “But we hope more women will take advantage of these opportunities and step forward.”

For those present, the training is not just about skills—it is also about representation, inclusion, and reshaping who gets to lead.

Beyond individual aspirations, the workshop carries a broader ambition: strengthening Zambia’s democracy itself.

Organisers argue that democracy is not only about elections, but about informed participation—by both leaders and citizens.

A representative from ZCID notes that voters often place unrealistic demands on MPs, while candidates, in turn, make promises they cannot fulfil.

“It becomes a cycle of misunderstanding,” the representative says. “This training is about breaking that cycle—ensuring that leaders are honest about what they can do, and that citizens understand what to expect.”

As the sessions unfold, what emerges is a quieter, more deliberate vision of politics—one less focused on spectacle and more on substance.

She also added that , the lessons are already reshaping priorities.

“We want to serve our people, but we also need to be realistic,” she said. “If we understand our role properly, we can deliver better.”

As Zambia looks toward future elections, initiatives like this may prove pivotal. In a political environment often driven by rhetoric, the emphasis on knowledge, clarity, and accountability offers a refreshing alternative.

Back in the training room, the discussions continue—probing, practical, and occasionally uncomfortable. But for those issues, the experience is transformative.

Because beyond the campaign posters and political slogans, this is where leadership truly begins: not in what is promised, but in what is understood.

UNDP, Standard Chartered Join Forces to Power Green and Inclusive Growth in Zambia

(Left: Standard Chartered Bank CEO Sonny Zulu and Right: Dr. James Wakiaga UNDP Resident Representative)

By Daily News Reporter 

The United Nations Development Programme and Standard Chartered Bank have signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at accelerating sustainable development and expanding opportunities for young people in Zambia.

The agreement marks a deepening of collaboration between the public and private sectors, with a strong focus on inclusive green economic growth, youth empowerment, and climate resilience.

Under the renewed partnership, the two institutions will work together to support micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), enhance access to renewable energy solutions, and promote innovative financing models aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Stakeholders say the initiative is designed to respond to Zambia’s evolving development needs by combining UNDP’s development expertise with Standard Chartered’s financial capabilities.

Speaking during signing ceremony Standard Chartered Bank (CEO) Chief Executive Officer Mr Sonny Zulu noted that the MoU is its focus on youth. The partnership seeks to equip young people with critical skills in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and employability, while also supporting youth-led businesses to thrive in a competitive economic environment.

“This partnership places young people at the centre of Zambia’s development agenda, ensuring they are not just beneficiaries, but active contributors to economic growth,” Mr Zulu noted.

The collaboration will also prioritize inclusion, targeting women and persons with disabilities through tailored programs aimed at expanding economic participation and reducing inequalities.

In addition, the agreement outlines efforts to strengthen climate action by supporting renewable energy initiatives and building resilience in vulnerable communities, particularly in rural areas.

The renewed MoU comes as Standard Chartered Bank Zambia celebrates more than a century of operations in the country, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable finance and long-term national development.

And UNDP Resident Representative Dr. James Wakiaga also added that the partnership could play a pivotal role in unlocking new investment opportunities, fostering innovation, and advancing Zambia’s transition toward a more sustainable and inclusive economy.

Dr Wakiaga further said that the collaboration reflects UNDP's continued efforts to leverage private sector expertise and financial innovation in support of Zambia's development aspirations.

 

Zambia’s Cement Supply: Forging Foundations: Inside Zambia’s Modern Cement Manufacturing 

(Chilanga Cement Quarry site)

By Daily News Reporter 

CEMENT production at Chilanga Cement has increased from 660,000 tonnes in 2021 to 917,000 tonnes in 2025, reflecting sustained investment and a strategic push to scale up operations in response to growing market demand.

In his presentation during the stakeholders Day, Deputy Plant Manager Jonas Kaonga said the growth in output follows millions of Kwacha invested in plant upgrades and efficiency improvements, positioning the company to better serve Zambia’s expanding construction sector.

"The near 40 percent rise in production underscores the company’s focus on capacity utilisation and operational optimisation, key drivers of competitiveness in the cement industry," Mr Kaonga said.

And speaking at the same event, Chief Executive Officer Jianhua Sheng reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to sustainable growth and long-term value creation.

Mr Sheng said continued engagement with shareholders and partners remains central to the company’s strategy, as it strengthens its position in the domestic market.

“Their engagement, insights, and continued support are what drive our business forward,” he said, noting that the Open Day provides a platform to showcase progress and align on future direction.

He added that the company is working closely with its majority shareholder, Huaxin Building Materials Group, to enhance operational efficiency and unlock further growth opportunities.

Industry observers note that Chilanga Cement’s rising output signals confidence in Zambia’s infrastructure pipeline, as cement demand is closely linked to construction activity across public and private sectors.

Mr Sheng said with production edging closer to the one-million-tonne threshold, the company is expected to sustain its growth momentum through continued investment and strategic partnerships.

James Chiwala Urges Action as Fuel Price Pressures Build in Zambia

By Daily News Reporter 

Zambia is bracing for potential fuel price increases as escalating tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt global oil markets, raising concerns over the cost of living and doing business.

The recent surge in international crude oil prices has placed pressure on the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) to adjust domestic fuel prices, with stakeholders warning that the country’s import-dependent energy sector leaves it exposed to external shocks.

Business Development and Marketing Expert and Co-Founder of CNC360 Consulting, Mr. James Chiwala, has urged authorities to act strategically to cushion the economy from the unfolding crisis.

“Zambia is not isolated from global market dynamics. When oil prices rise internationally, the impact is inevitably felt locally, particularly in fuel-dependent sectors,” he said.

Fuel remains a critical input across key sectors such as transportation, agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. Any increase in pump prices is expected to trigger a ripple effect, pushing up the cost of goods and services nationwide.

The situation is further complicated by the weakening of the Zambian Kwacha, which has depreciated against major currencies, making fuel imports more expensive and intensifying inflationary pressures.

Economic analysts warn that the combined effect of rising global oil prices and currency depreciation could lead to sustained increases in the cost of living, placing additional strain on households already grappling with economic challenges.

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which form a significant portion of Zambia’s economic activity, are among the most vulnerable. Many businesses are now facing difficult decisions, including increasing prices, cutting operational costs, or scaling down production.

Consumers are already beginning to feel the impact. Transport fares have started to rise in some areas, while traders report increasing prices for basic commodities.

“Fuel affects everything—from how goods are transported to how much we pay for food. When it goes up, everything else follows,” said a Lusaka-based commuter.

Mr. Chiwala has called for a series of policy measures aimed at strengthening Zambia’s resilience to global economic shocks. These include building strategic fuel reserves, investing in alternative energy sources, enhancing local production capacity, and stabilizing the national currency through prudent fiscal management.

He also emphasized the importance of clear and timely communication from regulatory bodies to help businesses and consumers anticipate and adjust to price changes.

As global uncertainty persists, Zambia faces the challenge of balancing economic stability with external pressures beyond its control. Experts say the current situation highlights the urgent need for long-term strategies to reduce reliance on imported fuel and build a more resilient economy.

With the Middle East crisis ongoing, the coming weeks will be critical in determining how Zambia navigates the economic impact of rising fuel costs.

Empowering Youths Through AI Innovation Challenge 

By Daily News Reporter 

n a vibrant display of innovation, creativity, and youthful ambition, Zambia’s technological future took center stage at the E-Mark AI and Robotics Challenge National Grand Finale in Lusaka. The event not only showcased cutting-edge ideas but also amplified a clear national message: the time has come for Zambians to move from consuming technology to creating it.

Speaking at E-Mark AI and Robotics Challenge National Grand Finale Ministry of Technology and Science, Minister Mr Felix Mutati, called for a mindset shift among citizens—especially young people—to embrace innovation as a tool for solving local challenges. He stressed that Zambia’s development trajectory depends on its ability to harness homegrown technological solutions tailored to its unique needs.

“Technology must not just be imported; it must be built here, by Zambians, for Zambians,” he said, underscoring the importance of investing in digital skills and innovation ecosystems.

The competition, which drew participants from across the country, reflected the growing momentum in Zambia’s digital transformation agenda. From robotics to artificial intelligence, the projects on display demonstrated not only technical skill but also a deep understanding of real-world problems.

Among the standout voices reinforcing this vision was Kusobile Kamwandi, Head of the Presidential Delivery Unit (PDU). She highlighted the government’s deliberate push to integrate technology into key sectors such as agriculture and public service delivery. According to her, innovation is no longer optional—it is central to Zambia’s economic resilience and efficiency.

“The ICT sector is becoming a powerful contributor to our Gross Domestic Product,” she noted. “This is a clear indication that technology is not just a support system—it is a driver of growth.”

At the heart of the event was a strong emphasis on youth empowerment. Emmanuel Mwanza, Chief Executive Officer of E-Mark, emphasized that young people are Zambia’s greatest asset in the digital age. He called for sustained investment in education, mentorship, and platforms that allow young innovators to thrive.

That potential was vividly illustrated by one of the youngest participants, Nandipa Sanagurai, a 12-year-old Grade Seven pupil. Her invention—a robot capable of taking orders and assisting people—captured the imagination of attendees and symbolized the promise of Zambia’s next generation of tech leaders. Her work stood as a powerful reminder that innovation knows no age.

The event also highlighted collaborative efforts between government and private sector players, reinforcing the idea that partnerships are critical to building robust digital infrastructure and expanding connectivity across the country.

As the curtains closed on the grand finale, one message remained clear: Zambia is steadily positioning itself as a hub for innovation in the region. With increasing support for young talent, strategic policy direction, and a growing ICT sector, the country is laying the foundation for a future driven by technology and creativity.

From classrooms to coding labs, Zambia’s innovators are rising—proving that the nation is not just ready to adopt the future, but to build it.