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Zambia has reportedly attained over 92 percent population connectivity, supported by fibre links to neighbouring countries and satellite solutions, according to the government.
Technology and Science Minister, Felix Mutati, said the level of connectivity was the result of sustained investment in digital infrastructure.
Mutati was speaking during the launch of a new mobile money–linked virtual payment service by MTN in partnership with Mastercard at the InterContinental Hotel in Lusaka on Thursday.
He said the government was enabling systems and platforms to communicate seamlessly to support secure and efficient domestic and cross-border transactions.
“We are strengthening digital resilience through robust legal and regulatory frameworks, including data protection and cybersecurity reforms, to ensure users can transact safely,” Mutati said.
The minister further said the government had removed barriers to private sector investment by eliminating import duties on certain digital infrastructure and streamlining approval processes for network expansion.
Mutati added that the government was leveraging partnerships among public institutions, mobile network operators, financial institutions, global payment platforms and technology providers to expand access to digital services.
He cited collaboration involving MTN, Mastercard, Network International, UBA and the Bank of Zambia as part of efforts to strengthen digital payments infrastructure.
“I wish to reaffirm the government’s commitment to policies that enable innovation, investment and growth in the digital economy,” Mutati said.
Meanwhile, company Chief Executive Officer, Komba Malukutila, said the newly launched MTN service was intended to enable farmers, small and medium enterprises, freelancers and digital service providers to make and receive payments, including across borders.
He acknowledged the role of partners, regulators and financial institutions in developing the service, saying collaboration remained central to secure and interoperable digital financial systems.
Malukutila said the launch marked a further step in the company’s efforts to expand digital financial services in Zambia.
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