Zambia is piloting the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the health sector across 20 health facilities as a key step toward utilising technology to enhance service delivery and health outcomes.
The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with Finland, which played an important role in assisting Zambia in developing its National AI Strategy (2024-2026) through technical support and guidance.
This week, the two sides assessed the progress of their partnership from 2020 to 2025.
They decided to broaden cooperation to establish a modern, digitally enabled economy, including increased digital health support and institutional twinning with Finnish innovation agencies.
According to Zambia's Ministry of Technology and Science, the partnership aims to boost the country's innovation ecosystem.
“We are exploring expanded partnerships with Finnish companies, including Nokia. Discussions are underway towards a memorandum of understanding to deepen cooperation. Notably, Nokia previously supported and trained 100 entrepreneurs, contributing significantly to the enhancement of digital skills and enterprise development in Zambia,” commented minister Felix Mutati.
Mutati also highlighted that digital illiteracy remains one of the pressing challenges for the Southern African nation. Currently, digital literacy levels stand at approximately 34%.
“If Zambia is to fully participate in the future digital economy, this gap must be addressed urgently. We therefore highly value Finland’s continued support in building digital competencies among our citizens,” he said.
Minister of Economic Affairs of Finland, Sakari Puisto, said education and the application of AI are central to shared priorities.
Puisto added that Finland remains committed to strengthening the partnership with Zambia and exploring new areas of cooperation that support sustainable growth and innovation.
Share
