Techbytes: ZDA, Lucid Circuit move to establish 300 AI Special Economic Zone in Zambia

The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) has reportedly signed a Letter of Intent with Lucid Circuit to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Special Economic Zone in Zambia, a project estimated to be worth between US$150 million and US$300 million.

The agency is expected to finalise a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Lucid Circuit and its partners to operationalise the AI zone, which aims to position Zambia as a regional innovation hub.

According to a statement issued in Lusaka on Thursday, the Letter of Intent was signed during the U.S.-Zambia Investment and Innovation Road Show 2025, a landmark event showcasing Zambia’s commitment to deepening economic diplomacy and attracting foreign investment.

The Roadshow, held from September 5 to 18, 2025, covered California, Georgia, and Texas, and secured potential investments across critical sectors including minerals, agriculture, energy, and healthcare, according to ZDA Director General Albert Halwampa.

“The Roadshow secured potential investments in critical minerals, agriculture, energy, and healthcare, showcasing Zambia’s vast economic potential and attractiveness to investors,” Halwampa said.

He noted that the mission underscored the importance of diaspora engagement, highlighting the catalytic role Zambians abroad play in advancing the country’s investment diplomacy agenda.

“The delegation met with state officials, investors, and industry leaders, showcasing Zambia’s investment opportunities and potential for collaboration,” Halwampa stated, adding that the Roadshow resulted in strategic partnerships with U.S. companies, academic institutions, and innovators.

He revealed that a proposal had been made to establish a Diaspora Investment Commission to channel diaspora capital and entrepreneurship into Zambia’s economy, supported by the creation of a Diaspora Investment Registry and desk office.

Halwampa added that institutional and private sector sponsors should be engaged early to secure support for future initiatives and emphasised the importance of leveraging third-party testimonials to promote Zambia’s investment potential.

He further announced that the Ministry of Agriculture would collaborate with Texas A&M University on technical site assessments, while the Ministry of Health would operationalise its partnership with MD Anderson.

“The relevant authorities are also expected to conclude the Austin Elements MoU and facilitate their Zambia mission,” Halwampa added.

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