The Zambian government has launched the ZamFree Public Free Wi-Fi initiative to increase digital access and empower citizens nationwide.
Officials inaugurated the program at Lusaka’s Intercity Bus Terminus, Kapiri-Mposhi Bus Station, and Kitwe’s Chisokone Market. Minister of Technology and Science Hon. Felix Mutati, officiating in Lusaka, described the initiative as a game-changer.
“It is my great honour and privilege to officially launch Zambia’s first public Wi-Fi initiative, targeting key public spaces such as markets, bus stations, borders, airports, schools, and hospitals,” said Mutati.
He emphasized the benefits for marketeers and travelers, adding:
“For the marketeers, this initiative provides access to online marketplaces, financial services, and tools to grow their businesses. For travelers, it ensures seamless communication and access to information that enhances their journeys and livelihoods.”
A Step Toward Modernized Governance in Zambia
The Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Hon. Gary Nkombo, represented by Permanent Secretary Nicholas Phiri, praised the initiative’s role in modernizing governance.
“This launch is not just a symbolic gesture. It is a concrete step towards implementing the local government digital strategy. This is designed to bring innovation, efficiency, and inclusivity to our local administration,” said Nkombo.
He added that digital transformation would improve service delivery and foster transparency and responsiveness within local governments.
Ms. Kusobile Kamwambi, Head of the Presidential Delivery Unit, highlighted the broader vision behind the initiative.
“This is more than a technological milestone; it represents empowering every Zambian to access opportunities in the digital economy,” she said.
Kamwambi noted that the program aligns with President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision to transform Zambia into a competitive middle-income economy by 2030.
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A Gateway to Government Services
SMART Zambia’s National Coordinator, Mr. Percy Chinyama, highlighted the significance of free Wi-Fi in accessing government services.
“With this joint launch, we are providing free limited internet to the public to access over 320 government services from various government institutions through the Government Service Bus (Zamportal).
This will now be done right from your smartphone or device, without needing to travel to a government office. This serves your time for other productivity,” said Chinyama.
He added that the Zamportal had generated significant revenue since 2019, collecting 5.8 billion Kwacha and nearly 25 million USD.
Strong Partnerships Driving Digital Inclusion
Duncan Pie, Regional Managing Director of inq.Digital, expressed pride in partnering with the government to provide technology for the initiative.
Pie said, “A strong partnership made this initiative possible, involving the Zambian Government, the Ministry of Technology and Science, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, the Presidential Delivery Unit, Smart Zambia Institute, and inq.Digital as the technology partner.”
The ZamFree initiative marks a critical step in Zambia’s journey toward achieving 80% internet penetration by 2026, promoting digital inclusion.