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The Zambian government has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering technological growth while ensuring robust protections for citizens’ interests.
Ministry of Technology and Science Permanent Secretary, Brilliant Habeenzu, highlighted Zambia’s approach to advancing technology with consumer safeguards at a ministerial panel on Wednesday in Cape Town, South Africa.
Habeenzu outlined Zambia’s strategy to balance innovation and regulation, emphasizing alignment with the Eighth National Development Plan, which targets transformative growth in key sectors like agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and tourism in a statement issued in Lusaka on Thursday.
He underscored the role of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, in boosting productivity across these industries.
“Our goal is to enhance sectoral output by integrating emerging technologies, especially in infrastructure and water management, to support a dynamic digital ecosystem,” Habeenzu explained.
Strengthening ICT infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, was a priority, he added.
Habeenzu also stressed the importance of digital accessibility and data security.
He noted that the government was implementing the ICT Policy, Digital Transformation Strategy, and revising the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act to build public trust.
“With the Data Protection Act in place, we’re closing gaps to safeguard data integrity,” he said.
He also claimed that to support early digital skills development, the government was equipping schools, including in remote areas, with computers via the Universal Access Service Fund.
In addition, funds like the Science, Technology and Innovation Youth Fund and the Technology Business Development Fund were driving innovation by supporting startups from inception to commercialization, he noted.
“These efforts are set to expand with the upcoming Startup Bill, which is in advanced stages,” Habeenzu stated.
Habeezu, accompanied by Acting ZICTA Director General, Collins Mbulo, is attending the “Africa Tech Festival” in Cape Town to advance Zambia’s tech agenda.
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