ZAMBIA LAUNCHES NATIONWIDE FREE WI-FI TO PROMOTE DIGITAL INCLUSION

ZAMBIA LAUNCHES NATIONWIDE FREE WI-FI TO PROMOTE DIGITAL INCLUSION

Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date: 29th November, 2024.
Lusaka, Zambia.

The Zambian government has officially launched the ZamFree National Public Free Wi-Fi initiative, aiming to bridge the digital divide and empower citizens across the country. The program was simultaneously launched at three key public hubs: Lusaka’s Intercity Bus Terminus, Kapiri-Mposhi Bus Station and Kitwe’s Chisokone Market.

Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Mutati, officiating at the Lusaka launch, stressed the importance of the initiative in creating a digitally inclusive Zambia. “This marks the launch of Zambia’s first public Wi-Fi initiative, connecting vital public spaces such as markets, bus stations, schools, and hospitals,” said Mutati. He noted that for local market vendors and travelers, the free Wi-Fi will provide access to online marketplaces, financial services, and vital travel information.

Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Hon. Gary Nkombo, represented by Permanent Secretary Mr. Nicholas Phiri, emphasized the initiative’s role in modernizing local government operations. “This launch is a step towards implementing a digital strategy to bring innovation and efficiency to local governance,” he said.

Ms. Kusobile Kamwambi, Head of the Presidential Delivery Unit, highlighted that the initiative aligns with President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision for Zambia’s transformation into a competitive middle-income economy by 2030. Kamwambi explained that the ZamFree initiative supports Zambia’s goal of achieving 80% internet penetration by 2026, with a focus on digital inclusion and economic empowerment.

SMART Zambia National Coordinator, Mr. Percy Chinyama, emphasized that the initiative would enhance access to over 320 government services via the Zamportal, available on smartphones and devices. This move is expected to save time for citizens by reducing the need for physical visits to government offices.

Regional Managing Director of inq.Digital, Mr. Duncan Pie, expressed pride in partnering with the government to provide the infrastructure and bandwidth for the Wi-Fi service, which offers a 25 Mbps connection at each site.

The ZamFree initiative is a collaboration between the Government of Zambia, the Ministry of Technology and Science, Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, the Presidential Delivery Unit, SMART Zambia, and technology partner inq.Digital.

CIC PRESS TEAM