Techtrends Zambia

Happy New Year 2025! As we welcome 2025, we reflect on the incredible milestones achieved in the past year and the invaluable support from our vibrant tech community. Your passion for innovation and progress continues to inspire us to push boundaries and amplify Zambia's digital transformation. This year, we remain committed to empowering innovation, celebrating technology leaders, and fostering collaborations that shape the future. Together, let’s create groundbreaking solutions, celebrate remarkable achievements, and drive impactful change. Here’s to a year of tech breakthroughs, growth, and endless opportunities! Happy 2025! - From the Techtrends Zambia Team -

Step into 2025 with heartfelt wishes from the Zamtel Board Chairman and Management! "To all our valued customers, thank you for your support—you’re at the heart of everything we do. Here’s to a brighter, more connected future together!" #HappyNewYear #Zamtel #StayConnected #ComeHome #DigitizeZambia

Wow, what a year it's been! 2024 is almost over, and we are incredibly grateful to each and every one of you for going with MoMo. Here's to a stronger and more impactful 2025! #MoMoFromMTNZM #GoWithMoMo

Get ready to honour innovation, excellence, and leadership in Zambia’s tech industry! The Techtrends Zambia 2024 Awards are now accepting nominations! Nomination Period: Open now until 15th January 2025 Voting Period: 16th January 2025 - 20th February 2025 Awards Event Date: Friday 14th March 2025 Venue: Mulungushi International Conference Centre With an array of exciting categories, this is your opportunity to spotlight the outstanding talent, groundbreaking solutions, and innovative strides shaping Zambia's tech landscape. Submit your nominations today at: https://lnkd.in/dQtJiXgb Sponsorship opportunities are available. #TTZAwards24 #InnovationExcellence #ZambiaTech #TechAwards

𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗲𝘅𝗶𝗺𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗰𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗯𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀 African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) and Ecobank Group (Ecobank Transnational Incorporated) have embarked on collaboration aimed at simplifying trade and compliance for businesses in Africa by integrating Ecobank’s Single Market Trade Hub and Afreximbank’s MANSA Digital Repository Platform. With collaboration, African businesses will benefit from seamless shared services across two platforms, with users of the Single Market Trade Hub able to easily leverage MANSA's comprehensive database for efficient know-thy-customer (KYC) and customer due diligence (CDD) checks while MANSA platform users would, in turn, be able to directly connect to the Single Market Trade Hub to explore trade opportunities to expand their businesses across Africa. The Ecobank Single Market Trade Hub connects registered businesses across Africa on a single platform, helping them benefit from opportunities in the unified market of 1.4 billion people created by the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). It serves as a one-stop repository for the AfCFTA by providing small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) and corporates with insights about the agreement while its online match-making feature enables importers and exporters to upload their profiles and showcase goods and services they offer, or wish to source, with the aim of finding partners within Africa. Once a match is found, connections are made via the platform and the transaction can be concluded leveraging on Ecobank’s trade and payment solutions in 35 African markets. The MANSA Digital Repository Platform, or MANSA, is a one-stop-shop for due diligence matters on all African entities. As a centralised digital repository, MANSA seeks to eliminate information asymmetry and to increase intra-African trade and trade with the rest of the world. It drives and promotes good governance culture among African SMEs and creates visibility for their businesses while also supporting African entities to expand, diversify and add value to their export products at both the local and international levels. Entities onboarded unto MANSA are allotted an Africa Entity Identifier (AEI) code which enables them to leverage other Afreximbank products and initiatives. MANSA is also a key digital solution at the Africa Trade Gateway (ATG) marketplace which houses a suite of digital platforms designed as a single window to enable Afreximbank better deliver on its mandate, providing critical services to support and promote intra-African trade and the implementation of the AfCFTA. The platform enables African entities to accelerate their business activities at the ATG marketplace by working with verified information on trusted counterparties. Story at https://lnkd.in/dT3hRKda

BOMA FREE WI-FI BOOSTS EFFICIENCY AT CHIRUNDU BORDER CHIRUNDU, December 23rd 2024---The Electronic Government Division (SMART Zambia Institute) recently deployed Boma Free WiFi at five border posts nationwide. The connected borders include Chirundu, Mwami, Chanida, Kasumbalesa, and Katima Mulilo. According to Ms THERESA MWANZA, Ministry of Health, PortHealth In Charge at Chirundu One-Stop Border Post, the free WiFi has greatly enhanced service delivery at the health facility and Officers no longer need to spend personal internet bundles to do their work. “We can now attend to patients promptly and send daily reports easily," she said. SMART Zambia’s Head of the Delivery Unit Mr LUHAMBA MOOKA and Mr JOHN MAKWANGULA recently inspected the progress at the Chirundu One-Stop border post. #Zambia #BorderEfficiency #FreeWiFi #TradeFacilitation #AUDA-NEPAD #SMARTZambiaInstitute

𝗖𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗮𝘃𝗮 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗨𝗦𝗗 𝟯𝟭𝟬 𝗠𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗙𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 Cassava Technologies proudly announces three significant milestones: a substantial equity injection, the successful completion of its South African Rand (ZAR) debt refinancing, and the finalization of its legal reorganization. These strategic initiatives position Cassava for robust growth underpinned by a strong balance sheet. Cassava has closed an equity investment round of $90 million with participation from U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), Finnish Fund for Industrial Cooperation (Finnfund), and Google LLC. This funding is a key part of Cassava’s plan to strengthen its balance sheet, drive sustainable profitable growth, and cement its position as a global technology company of African heritage. The conclusion of this equity round coincides with the successful reorganization of Cassava’s business to create an integrated digital solutions platform. This platform provides Broadband Connectivity, Co-location (data centres), Cloud, Cybersecurity, Compute (AI), and Payment services across more than 30 markets in Africa, the Middle East, India, and Latin America. Additionally, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, a business of Cassava Technologies, has successfully signed new facilities to refinance its South African Rand term loan on a multi-tenor basis. The new facilities, equivalent to USD 220 million in South African Rands, are being provided by Standard Bank of South Africa, Rand Merchant Bank, Nedbank of South Africa, and International Finance Corporation (IFC). “We are excited to announce these significant achievements, which collectively strengthen our financial position and are a powerful testament to the vision of our founder and Group Chairman, Strive Masiyiwa, and the dedication and commitment of our teams across the Group,” said Hardy Pemhiwa, President and Group CEO of Cassava (in picture). “The closing of this equity round, completion of our ZAR debt refinancing, and reorganization represent more than just capital – it’s a pivotal milestone that we expect to unlock immense value and catalyze the further expansion of our digital infrastructure and services to bridge the digital divide on the continent”. With the addition of DFC, Google LLC, and Finnfund, Cassava’s impressive roster of shareholders includes Econet Group, British International Investment (BII), Public Investment Corporation (PIC), Royal Bafokeng Holdings (RBH), African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) /FEDA), and Gateway Capital. Cassava Technologies has built a strong portfolio of business units comprising Liquid Intelligent Technologies, Africa Data Centres, Liquid C2, Cassava.ai, and Sasai Fintech. Story at https://lnkd.in/dff2dfge

𝗜𝗡𝗙𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗟 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗢𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗲 – 𝗗𝗜𝗚𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗟 𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗦𝗘 Infratel Zambia, Zambia's premium digital infrastructure provider, commemorated a significant milestone today with the official opening of its new headquarters, named DIGITAL HOUSE, in Lusaka. This facility symbolises INFRATEL's steadfast commitment to advancing Zambia's digital transformation and promoting innovation. The significant event was graced by Mr. Cornwell Muleya, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), who officially inaugurated the facility. In his keynote address, read on his behalf by Mrs Leya Mtonga Ngoma; Mr Muleya highlighted the crucial importance of digital infrastructure in empowering businesses, communities, and individuals and praised INFRATEL for its efforts in enhancing Zambia’s attainment of a digital economy. “Digital House is more than just a building; it is a collective commitment to embracing a digital future. It will serve as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and excellence, propelling Zambia closer to becoming a knowledge-based economy,” Mr. Muleya remarked. Speaking at the same event, the INFRATEL Board Chairperson, Mr Stein Liyanda, commended the efforts that brought the vision of Digital House to life. “This facility stands as a testament to what we can achieve through resilience and innovation. It represents progress, opportunity, and our shared vision of a digitally empowered Zambia,” Mr. Liyanda said. INFRATEL Chief Executive Officer Dr. Evans Silavwe emphasized that; Digital House is strategically designed to be a centre for creativity, development, and execution of digital solutions that address Zambia’s unique challenges. The facility will play a key role in enabling digital communications infrastructure, promoting digital inclusivity, and enhancing economic growth through technology. The event was attended by distinguished stakeholders, INFRATEL management and staff, who were commended for their dedication and contribution to this attainment. The opening of Digital House marks the beginning of a new chapter for INFRATEL, as it continues to strengthen its position as a trusted partner in Zambia’s digital transformation journey.

THE DIGITAL ZAMBIA ACCELERATION PROJECT The Government of the Republic of Zambia through the Electronic Government Division – SMART Zambia Institute is implementing the Digital Zambia Acceleration Project (DZAP) which is part of phase 2 of the Inclusive Digitalization in Eastern and Southern Africa Multiphase Programmatic Approach (IDEA MPA), which was approved by the World Bank Board on June 27, 2024, with an overall financing envelope of US$2.48 billion. Zambia is the fifth operation under IDEA following country operations in Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Malawi, and for COMESA as the coordinating Regional Economic Community (REC). DZAP has four components which are aligned with the IDEA pillars as follows: COMPONENT 1: Affordable Broadband ✅ Extending the backbone and regional network ✅ Supplying last-mile connectivity ✅ Strengthening the enabling environment COMPONENT 2: Interoperable and Secure Data Platforms ✅ Developing digital ID and trust services ✅ Enhancing digital government and services ✅ Fostering regional trade facilitation COMPONENT 3: High-impact digital services and productive digital usage ✅ Supporting digitalization in selected high-impact sectors ✅ Nurturing employment-ready digital skills COMPONENT 4: Program Management and Capacity-Building The Project Preparation Advance was signed on 21st October 2024 and the Electronic Government Division commenced stakeholder engagements on the Environmental and Social Management Framework which drew participation from all ten provinces. Keep visiting our page for updates on the DZAP Project.

𝗟𝗼𝗶𝘁𝗮 𝗕𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗧𝗼 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗯𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗭𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗶𝗮 𝗗𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 Loita Business is thrilled to announce that it will be hosting the highly anticipated Zambia Digital Week, a pioneering event set to revolutionize the digital landscape of Zambia. This landmark event will take place from 28th to 30th January 2025 at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, bringing together industry leaders, technology enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to explore the future of digital innovation. Zambia Digital Week aims to foster collaboration, inspire innovation, and drive digital transformation across various sectors of the Zambian economy. The event will feature a dynamic lineup of keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions, providing a platform for attendees to engage with cutting-edge technologies and trends. Zambia Digital Week 2025, brought to you by Loita Business in collaboration with the Ministry of Technology and Science in Zambia, Smart Africa, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), Digital Council Africa, and Invest Africa, brings together local, regional, and global leaders from government, business, and international organisations to collaborate in new ways to advance Zambia’s digital economy and shaping, accelerating, and sustaining Zambia’s ongoing digital revolution. Event Highlights: 1. Keynote Addresses: Industry leaders and visionaries will share insights on the latest developments in digital technology and its impact on business, government, and society. 2. Panel Discussions: Experts will delve into critical topics such as cybersecurity, fintech, e-commerce, digital health, and smart cities, offering diverse perspectives and solutions. 3. Workshops: Hands-on sessions will provide practical skills and knowledge on emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, blockchain, and Internet of Things (IoT). 4. Exhibitions: Leading tech companies and startups will showcase innovative products and services, offering attendees a glimpse into the future of digital solutions. 5. Networking Opportunities: The event will facilitate connections between professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, and government officials, fostering collaborations that will drive Zambia’s digital agenda forward. 6. Official Launch- Zoho’s USD30m investment programme to advance technology reach and digital transformation in the SME sector in Zambia. “We are excited to host Zambia Digital Week, an event that underscores our commitment to driving digital transformation and innovation in Zambia,” said N. Justin Chinyanta, CEO of Loita Capital Partners International. “This event will not only highlight the incredible potential of digital technologies but also create opportunities for collaboration and growth across various sectors.” Story at https://lnkd.in/dFE7qyC3