Zambia wants to make the information and communication technology (ICT) sector worth $60 billion by 2031.
The government is banking on artificial intelligence to drive growth in the industry, which has surpassed copper as the most profitable sector in the country.
President Hakainde Hichilema announced the objective on Wednesday, while officially starting the 2026 Information and Communications Technology Association of Zambia (ICTAZ) Conference.
The 17th Annual General Meeting of ICTAZ had the theme "Zambia's $60 Billion Economy by 2031: Powered by Technology and AI."
“The ICT sector is central to achieving this vision by providing education, skills and technological tools that empower youth to actively participate in economic growth,” the president said.
“Policies alone are not adequate. The ICT sector must continue to play a pivotal role in creating education opportunities, skills development, jobs, business growth, and in supporting trade and investment across all ten provinces of Zambia.”
Hichilema believes that technology will increase production in essential industries such as agriculture, energy, and mining.
Felix Mutati, the Minister of Science and Technology, also spoke at the event.
“The future of Zambia’s economy, particularly a digital , dollar-driven economy, will depend on how effectively we position ourselves within the global landscape, including key regions such as the Asia-Pacific,” the minister said.
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