China's Huawei Technologies plans to invest over US$1-million in Zambia this year, focused on communications infrastructure and education, with the intention to specifically empower users in rural areas.

Speaking at an event to showcase the ICT firm's high-end products and services in Lusaka, Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Yang Youming said governments of both countries are in discussion about how Zambia could from the US$60-million that China has pledged to Africa for various developmental projects.

"You may not believe that Huawei this year plans to invest more than $1 million in improving communication and education in Zambia," he said.

Huawei Zambia is in partnership with local authorities as well as mobile phone operators MTN Zambia, Airtel Zambia and Zamtel regarding the construction and operation of communication towers.

This year, the company signed a US$65-million contract for the second phase of the project to design, supply, deliver, install and commission towers within under-served areas of the Southern African country.

The company has also supplied hardware to education institutions, including the University of Zambia (60 computers), Mulungushi University (40 computers) and Mushindano Girls Technical school (50 computers).

Huawei Zambia country director Emilion Ming said the company is dedicated to the development of Zambia's communication infrastructure. "Huawei has been dedicated to the Zambian market for more than 12 years and is committed to the country and the development of its communications infrastructure."