In a historic move towards digital transformation, the Zambian government has officially launched the ZamFree National Public Free Wi-Fi Initiative, a groundbreaking project aimed at bridging the digital divide and empowering citizens with free access to the internet. The initiative, part of Zambia’s Vision 2030 plan, underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a digitally inclusive society, with internet penetration set to reach 80% by 2026.
The launch took place simultaneously at three significant public hubs: Lusaka’s Intercity Bus Terminus, Kapiri-Mposhi Bus Station, and Kitwe’s Chisokone Market.
Digital Access for All: A Game-Changer for Markets and Travelers
Speaking at the Lusaka launch, Hon. Felix Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science, highlighted the initiative’s transformative potential:
“We celebrate our commitment to bridging the digital divide and empowering our people, particularly marketeers and travelers, who form the backbone of our local economy. This initiative provides marketeers access to online marketplaces and financial tools to grow their businesses. For travelers, it ensures seamless communication and access to information that enhances their journeys and livelihoods.”
By targeting public spaces such as markets, bus stations, borders, airports, schools, and hospitals, the ZamFree initiative aims to provide equitable access to the digital economy. This move ensures that no Zambian is left behind in the country’s quest for technological advancement.
Local Governments Join the Digital Revolution
Representing the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Permanent Secretary Nicholas Phiri emphasized how the initiative aligns with Zambia’s local government digital strategy:
“This launch is a concrete step toward modernizing and streamlining local government operations. Digital transformation is critical for fostering transparency, participation, and responsiveness to community needs.”
Through this initiative, local governments will leverage digital tools to improve service delivery, creating more efficient systems that respond directly to citizens’ needs.
A Vision for Economic Transformation
Ms. Kusobile Kamwambi, Head of the Presidential Delivery Unit (PDU), underscored the broader significance of the free Wi-Fi project:
“This initiative represents more than a technological milestone. It embodies a future where every Zambian, regardless of their age, background, or status, can access opportunities in the national and global digital economy.”
The initiative is part of Zambia’s Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP), which prioritizes economic transformation and job creation. It aims to empower 80% of Zambians with digital access and literacy by 2026, while enabling 20% of citizens to participate actively in the digital economy.
This focus aligns with President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision of transforming Zambia into a prosperous, competitive middle-income economy by 2030.
Streamlined Access to Government Services
SMART Zambia’s National Coordinator, Mr. Percy Chinyama, highlighted the initiative’s role in enhancing access to government services through the Government Service Bus (Zamportal).
“With free public Wi-Fi, citizens can now access over 320 government services directly from their smartphones or devices without traveling to government offices. This saves time and enhances productivity.”
The Zamportal has already generated significant non-tax revenue, with collections exceeding ZMW 5.8 billion and USD 24.9 million since its implementation in 2019.
Partnerships Driving Innovation
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The success of the ZamFree initiative is attributed to a strong partnership between the government and its technology partner, inq.Digital. Duncan Pie, Regional Managing Director of inq.Digital, expressed pride in providing Wi-Fi equipment and a 25 Mbps bandwidth capacity at each pilot site.
“Technology has an unparalleled ability to leapfrog social and economic development. We are honored to partner with the Zambian government on this transformative journey.”
Looking Ahead: Scaling the Initiative Nationwide
The ZamFree initiative is just the beginning of a broader effort to bridge Zambia’s digital divide. Plans are underway to expand free Wi-Fi access to more public spaces, including borders, schools, and healthcare facilities. This expansion will be crucial in ensuring widespread digital inclusion, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
With Zambia’s Vision 2030 and the Eighth National Development Plan as guiding frameworks, the country is taking bold steps toward becoming a fully connected and digitally empowered nation.
Zambia’s free public Wi-Fi initiative is more than an infrastructure project—it’s a catalyst for digital inclusion, economic transformation, and social empowerment. The future is digital, and Zambia is leading the way.
