The results of a 2015 survey carried out by the Zambian Information and Communication Technology Authority (ZICTA) have shown that 65% of locals own mobile phones, while approximately 14% of users have smartphones.

This is according to the 2015 survey on access and usage of ICT, conducted by ZICTA in collaboration with the Central Statistical Office and Ministry of Communications and Transport in August.

The survey also found that 51% of people, aged ten years and older, are active users of mobile phones, and the proportion of active users of mobile phones is relatively higher in urban areas than in rural areas.

Research showed a remarkable improvement in the proportion of individuals that know how to use the internet from 4.8% that ZICTA reported in 2013 to 8.8% in 2015. It said the majority of the households accounting for 71% of the total number of households with access to internet services, access broadband services using mobile phones.

The majority of internet users (63%) spend their time online on social networking sites, according to the survey.

ZICTA director general Margaret Mudenda said the results are necessary in highlighting progress towards transforming Zambia into an 'information knowledge based society'.

Mudenda added that the results will help authorities to determine measures and strategies to ensure that everyone has access to ICT.

"The measurement of ICT access and usage is vital for formulating and revising national ICT policies and strategies. ICT indicators are also necessary to monitor progress in achieving the global sustainable development goals," she added.