The Zambian government has announced intentions to create Community Digital Transformation Centers to strengthen its digital ecosystem.
This comes after it was announced that every lawmaker representing Zambia will get a Starlink kit for their home constituency.
Felix Chipota Mutati, the Minister of Science and Technology, claims that the centers will act as hubs where people may acquire free Internet connection.
“These centres will not only provide Internet access but will also serve as training grounds for digital literacy and skills programs, including digital entrepreneurship and innovation, creating opportunities for jobs and empowerment,” Mutati said
To create these centers, Smart Zambia will make use of the Zambia Postal Services Corporation’s infrastructure as well as other suitable infrastructure.
With more than 20 million people living there, inadequate infrastructure—especially in rural areas—has resulted in erratic Internet access. DataReportal’s Digital 2023 estimates that the nation has 4.3 million Internet users or a 21.2% Internet penetration rate.
With this breakthrough, Zambia’s digital infrastructure will be strengthened and regional innovation will be encouraged.