Government Launches Platform To Secure Digital Transactions

Government has introduced a national system aimed at making online transactions and electronic documents more secure as Zambia expands its digital economy.

The National Public Key Infrastructure (NPKI) was launched in Lusaka as part of efforts to establish greater trust in digital services.

Technology and Science Permanent Secretary Dr Brilliant Habeenzu says the infrastructure will help address security concerns surrounding digital identities, electronic transactions and information shared online.

He says the system will work alongside other components of Zambia’s digital infrastructure, including connectivity, data centres, cybersecurity and digital identity systems.

According to Dr Habeenzu, the platform will enable electronic transactions and documents to be authenticated while helping protect information from manipulation.

He says its use could also reduce dependence on paperwork, support digital signatures and make government services more efficient.

Meanwhile, ZICTA Director General Collins Mbulo says the new infrastructure is expected to give businesses and investors greater confidence when conducting activities digitally.

Mr Mbulo says the initiative could also create opportunities for local technology firms to develop services based on secure digital identities and electronic transactions.

He adds that the shared infrastructure will allow government institutions, regulators, financial institutions and private companies to use a common system rather than developing separate platforms for the same purpose.