Government has set aside K22 million as grants for innovators and inventors to actualize their prototypes, to help address challenges such as the energy deficit affecting the country.
Technology and Science Minister, Felix Mutati, says the money is also supporting innovators and inventors who are working on solutions to the current energy and climate change challenges Zambia is currently facing.
Mr. Mutati says government is committed to ensuring that innovation thrives and helps young people actualize products which can sale and be a solution to challenges in society.
Speaking in Lusaka when he officially opened the Consultative Workshop on the Development of a Generic Commercialization and Technology Transfer Framework in Lusaka, Mr. Mutati said there is a lot of creativity and expertise which can be utilized to address many pressing issues in the country.
He said the current drought Zambia is facing needs innovative technologies which can be deployed to withstand the effects of climate change.
Mr. Mutati also announced that government was reviewing the Science and Technology Policy to address many issues.
He said the coming up of the Start Up Bill is also being done to bring on board venture capital to support start ups and Small and Medium Enterprises.
And National Science and Technology Council Acting Executive Secretary, Guest Mugala, said the institution is committed to supporting innovation.
Mr. Mugala said innovation is helpful as it responds to the problems in society.
The two day workshop has attracted dozens of delegates from eight African countries.
By Eva Hatontola
