Zambia Attracts $54 Million Investments in ICT Sector
Zambia has attracted over $54 million in investments in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, largely driven by the government's recent tax incentives. Technology and Science Minister, Hon. Felix Mutati, announced that the investment influx followed the government's decision to waive taxes on the importation of ICT equipment. "The government's decision to waive taxes was aimed at opening up the ICT sector and promoting private sector involvement," Mutati stated.
His remarks were made during a courtesy call from a delegation from the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) at Maxwell House in Lusaka. Mutati highlighted significant advancements in digital infrastructure, citing the example of Starlink, which has expanded its presence from 100 kits last year to 11,000 kits now, significantly boosting digital connectivity across the country. In addition, Mutati revealed plans for extensive optic fiber connectivity. "By next month, Zambia will be connected by optic fiber to all of its eight neighboring countries," he said. He mentioned that Zambia has already completed its optic fiber connection to Angola, with Mozambique being the next target.
The minister also discussed the positive impact of reducing courier fees, which has led to a surge in the number of courier companies operating in Zambia. He noted that the business is being carried out by over 120 companies who courier by motorcycles, up from an initial 40. COMESA's Director for Information and Communication Technology, Lanka Dorby, expressed optimism about Zambia's ICT advancements. She revealed that the delegation, along with a consultant, was in the country to assess the possibility of setting up the Cloud Africa Ecosystem. "Zambia is among 10 African countries being considered for hosting the cloud headquarters," Dorby said.
The Cloud Africa Ecosystem aims to host African data and provide industry with the latest information. Dorby added that COMESA, with funding from the African Development Bank, plans to establish the headquarters of the Cloud Africa Ecosystem in one African country and a backup data center in another. The increased investment and ongoing projects underscore Zambia's growing prominence in the ICT sector, promising enhanced connectivity and technological growth across the nation.