Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, says Zambia and the rest of Africa have dropped the begging bowl, moved away from dependency on aid, and are now focused on forming mutual investment partnerships based on mutual respect, acknowledging that every country has unique capabilities to contribute.
Mr. Mutati said this when he addressed a high-level Investment and Sustainability meeting at the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), in Paris.
He underscored the importance of mutual partnerships to drive investments that address global issues, such as energy and climate change, while leveraging digital transformation as a key driver of economic transformation by mobilising necessary private sector resources.
Mr. Mutati reiterated the importance of establishing credibility and trust in the reform process, aligning with international best practices to attract private sector investment.
He outlined several policy measures implemented under President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration to create a favorable investment environment, such as debt restructuring, which has bolstered investor confidence.
And Mr. Mutati highlighted the establishment of the Private Public Dialogue Forum aimed at reducing bureaucratic barriers to private sector investment and the creation of the Presidential Delivery Unit to ensure the implementation of investment projects.
He said the introduction of pro-investment incentives in telecommunications facilitated nearly $60 million in digital infrastructure investments in 2023, enhancing Zambia’s connectivity with all eight neighboring countries.
Mr. Mutati also mentioned the development of a comprehensive digital transformation strategy aimed at promoting financial inclusion, digital skills, and entrepreneurship in mining, energy, manufacturing, and tourism sectors.
This is contained in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today by First Secretary Press at Zambia’s Embassy in Paris, Naomi Mweemba.
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