World Bank Commits $100 Million to Zambia’s Digital Transformation Initiative

The World Bank has announced a substantial $100 million investment dedicated to propelling Zambia’s digital transformation through the Digital Zambia Acceleration Project (DZAP).

The announcement was made by Felix Mutati, Zambia’s Minister of Technology and Science, on July 19. The funding for this project is provided by the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA) and will be complemented by additional commercial financing. The DZAP’s primary objectives include broadening internet accessibility, improving digital services, and fortifying the nation’s digital infrastructure.

Wengcai Zhang, the World Bank Managing Director, underscored the initiative’s alignment with Zambia’s governmental goals during his visit to Lusaka. He emphasized the World Bank’s commitment to investing in broadband, last-mile connectivity, and digital public infrastructure to enhance the efficiency of Zambia’s public and private sectors.

The DZAP will also concentrate on cultivating digital skills, bolstering high-impact sectors, and bridging the considerable digital gap within the country. The Zambia Inclusive Digital Economy Status Report 2022 indicates that only 53% of Zambians currently have internet access, which underscores the critical need for this digital transformation.

To manage the project, a Project Implementation Unit will be set up within the Smart Zambia Institute. Moreover, the World Bank has voiced its support for Zambia’s bid to host the World Skills Africa Competition in Livingstone in the following year.

The DZAP is slated to receive the World Bank Board’s final endorsement in March 2025. In the interim, a $6 million advance will finance the initial stages of the project.