2025 PRICE WATER HOUSE COOPERS.PWC TELECOMMUNICATIONS SURVEY REPORT – 11th September 2025
The Telecommunications Survey Report was officially launched by the Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Chipota Mutati, at the Southern Sun Hotel in Lusaka. During the event, Hon. Mutati emphasized the report’s significance, stating that it positions the firm as a leader in analytical thought within the telecommunications sector.
Key Statistics Highlighted in the Report:
– Labour Market Insights: Informal sector employment accounts for over 4 million jobs.
– ICT Sector Growth: The report indicates substantial developments in the information and communications technology (ICT) sector.
– Mobile Money Transactions: The value of mobile money transactions approaches 4 billion Zambian Kwacha.
– Economic Contribution: The ICT sector represents 20% of total tax revenue, asserting itself as the fastest-growing sector in the Zambian economy.
Strategic Priorities Moving Forward:
1. 5G Deployment: Prioritize the penetration and implementation of 5G technology to support artificial intelligence advancements.
2. Cyber Resilience: Enhance cyber resilience efforts to combat fraud and protect citizens’ data.
3. Customer Experience: Focus on improving the quality and overall experience for citizens, introducing smart solutions to enhance infrastructure, such as communication towers. Notable examples include solar-powered towers in Ngabwe and Lavushimanda.
4. Infrastructure Collaboration: Shift focus from competing in the deployment of individual towers to collaborative efforts in co-location, allowing a single tower to support multiple networks, thereby extending coverage to a larger population.
5. Legal Framework Acceleration: Expedite the revision of the legal framework governing the ICT sector to adapt to the industry’s rapid growth and innovation.
The report further encourages support for emerging innovators and outlines legislative initiatives aimed at fostering growth within the sector.
Insights from Industry Leaders:
The Chairperson of GSMA Zambia, Mr. Jason Mwanza, commented on the necessity of illuminating the sector’s developments, while Country Partner PWC, Mr. Andrew Chibuye, presented key findings from the report.
The Director General of ZICTA Mr Collins Mbulo, represented by Director Mr Bernard Banda highlighted key achievements, noting that mobile penetration exceeds 100% and internet connections approach 14 million, contributing significantly to economic growth and social development.
He acknowledged PwC’s role in analyzing the sector’s performance, emphasizing its impact on job creation and foreign direct investment. While celebrating successes, he pointed out challenges such as energy supply constraints, regulatory gaps, and cybersecurity threats, calling for collaboration among stakeholders to address these issues.
ZICTA remains committed to promoting inclusive digital connectivity by expanding infrastructure in underserved areas, ensuring affordable digital services, and fostering a supportive regulatory environment. The Director General concluded by emphasizing the importance of digital transformation that prioritizes people and collaboration, urging continued efforts to harness ICT for the betterment of Zambia. Thank you.
Employment Distribution:
– The report notes that 53% of the telecommunications workforce stems from major local companies, ensuring job creation and economic stability.
Innovative Energy Solutions:
Zamtel’s CEO highlighted advancements in load management, particularly through solar energy solutions that provide alternative power during load shedding, thereby enhancing operational efficiency.
Outlook of the Telecommunications Sector.
A new report from PwC Zambia underscores the telecommunications sector’s role as a catalyst for economic growth and social inclusion. The inaugural PwC Zambia Telecommunications Report 2025 presents a thriving industry driven by technological advancements and robust government support.
Key Highlights from the Report:
-Government Initiatives: Acknowledges the pivotal role of the Ministry of Technology and Science and the Smart Zambia Institute in driving significant ICT infrastructure investments, resulting in advanced data centers, local computer assembly plants, and training facilities.
– Improved Accessibility: There has been a notable increase in broadband access and connectivity to international submarine cables, leading to more affordable mobile and fixed-line services. This accessibility has empowered a broader segment of the Zambian population.
– Resilient Industry Growth: Collaborations with leading mobile network operators—Airtel Networks, MTN Zambia, and Zamtel—confirm the robustness of the sector, which is not only facilitating communication but also functioning as a vital engine for economic activity through mobile financial services.
The PwC report serves as a testament to Zambia’s ongoing progress in the digital landscape, presenting a favorable outlook for policymakers, investors, and consumers.
