The World Bank has pledged $100 million to boost Zambia’s digital infrastructure, aiming to expand internet access across the nation. This significant investment will be channeled into the Digital Zambia Acceleration Project (DZAP), unveiled by Wengcai Zhang, the World Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Administration Officer. The project is designed to increase internet accessibility and digital services throughout Zambia.
During a meeting with Zambia’s Technology and Science Minister, Felix Chipota Mutati, Mr. Zhang provided an in-depth overview of the project. Funding for DZAP will come from both national and regional International Development Association (IDA) sources, supplemented by $20 million from unguaranteed commercial financing.
The initiative seeks to enhance broadband capabilities, last-mile infrastructure, and digital public infrastructure, offering benefits to both the public and private sectors. Mr. Zhang emphasized the project’s potential impact on critical sectors and its role in cultivating employment-ready digital skills. He also mentioned that the World Bank Board is expected to approve the project by March 2025. Meanwhile, a Project Preparation Advance of $6 million is being processed to initiate preliminary activities.
A Project Implementation Unit will be established within the Smart Zambia Institute to oversee cross-government digital initiatives, ensuring coordinated efforts in the nation’s digital transformation.
Also Read: China Announces $1 Billion Investment to Modernize Tanzania-Zambia Railway
Mr. Zhang also expressed support for Zambia hosting the World Skills Africa Competition in Livingstone in April 2025, highlighting the global importance of this event.
Minister Felix Mutati conveyed his gratitude for the World Bank’s support, underscoring the significance of the $6 million Project Preparation Advance in addressing gaps in the Technical Education, Vocational, and Entrepreneurship Training (TEVET) sector.
The meeting was also attended by World Bank Zambia Country Manager Achim Fock and Milner Makuni, Director of Communication in the Ministry of Technology and Science.
The DZAP aims to expand internet access and improve digital infrastructure nationwide, enhancing the efficiency of both public and private sectors. This project is set to build a robust digital economy in Zambia, fostering growth and development. By driving internet expansion, digital skill development, and improved public services, the collaborative efforts of the World Bank and the Zambian government are poised to create a brighter digital future for Zambia.
