The Czech Republic’s support is expected to enhance Zambia’s capacity to develop digital tools, strengthen cyber resilience, and accelerate digital public services aligning with Zambia’s vision of building an inclusive, tech-driven economy.

The Czech Republic has committed to deepening its partnership with Zambia through enhanced technology transfer and capacity building, signaling a stronger bilateral focus on digital transformation. This commitment, announced May 14, was made during a high-level meeting between Czech Deputy Prime Minister Marian Jureka and Zambia’s Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Mutati.

“We have prioritized several areas to advance our ‘Digital Zambia’ agenda,” Mutati stated. “We’ve laid the groundwork with forward-thinking legislation, including a national AI strategy, Cybersecurity and Cyber Crimes Law, and policies that support trust and safety in cyberspace.”

Minister Mutati expressed appreciation for the Czech Republic’s continued support in fostering digital inclusion in Zambia, highlighting scholarships already awarded to Zambian professionals in key tech areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Information Technology, and Cybersecurity.

The Minister also emphasized Zambia’s focus on digitizing government records, a presidential priority under President Hakainde Hichilema, and an area where further Czech cooperation is welcome.

Deputy Prime Minister Jureka shared how digitalization and AI have enabled the Czech Republic to improve public services and reduce government workforce size by 10% without compromising efficiency.

Jureka pledged cooperation in Data Management and Processing – including best practices for central administration and provincial service delivery, and cybersecurity – ensuring safe digital environments as Zambia expands its digital infrastructure.

Digital technology is increasingly becoming a key driver of economic progress. According to Zambia’s Ministry of Technology and Science, the ICT sector grew 17.8% in 2024, contributing 3.5% to GDP. This underscores the importance of continued investment and international collaboration in digital transformation.

By strengthening technical capacity and digital infrastructure, this partnership has the potential to accelerate economic diversification, enhance public sector efficiency, and expand digital access to underserved regions—ensuring the ICT sector continues to be a catalyst for inclusive, tech-driven growth in Zambia

Hikmatu Bilali