Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, has urged industry players in Zambia to ensure enabling fundamentals, such as ICTs, science and innovation are in place, for the country to fully embrace the digital trade.
Mr. Mutati said this in Lusaka today, during a meeting for the Africa Free Trade Area Digital Trade Forum, in a speech read on his behalf by Ministry of Technology and Science Permanent Secretary, Brilliant Habeenzu.
He said today’s meeting marked a significant step towards Zambia’s preparedness and readiness to host participants from different countries, to discuss how best Africa’s digital transformation and economic unity can be enhanced.
Mr. Mutati highlighted that digital economy is the future since it offers opportunities for countries to break down the barriers to trade and create world’s largest single market.
He said Zambia is already putting in place measures, such digital infrastructure investment, E-commerce facilitation, cyber security and data protection and innovation hub starts up, among other measures, to drive digital trade.
“We are committed, alongside the private sector, to build robust digital infrastructure, including high-speed broadband, reliable connectivity, and data centers. Our target is to attain universal digital access for all citizens,” said Mr. Mutati.
By Eva Hatontola
