DIGITAL ACCESS AND SERVICE QUALITY THROUGH STRATEGIC PUBLIC – PRIVATE

In a major stride toward a more digitally inclusive Zambia, the government and the private sector are collaborating to enhance the country’s telecommunications infrastructure. The Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix C. Mutati, recently inspected two new Airtel Zambia towers in Silverest, Chongwe. These towers, constructed by IHS Zambia, are a central component of a larger national initiative to improve digital access and service quality through strategic public-private partnerships (PPPs).

​This project highlights the government’s determination to bridge the digital divide by ensuring citizens have access to the reliable and affordable digital services that are vital for education, commerce, and daily communication.

​Progress on Infrastructure and Quality

​The inspection revealed significant progress in the tower rollout. Of the 152 towers that IHS Zambia is constructing for Airtel nationwide, 40 are now online, with an additional 12 expected to be operational by the end of September. The full project is on track to be completed by the end of November 2025. Thirty-eight of these towers are located in Lusaka Province, including the two newly commissioned ones in Silverest.

​The new infrastructure features a smart energy system that utilizes a mix of batteries, generators, and solar power. This design is intended to provide uninterrupted service and alleviate common issues like dropped calls and poor internet connectivity. The strategic placement of the Silverest tower near the University of Lusaka is particularly noteworthy, as it’s set to benefit over 11,000 students by providing enhanced access to academic resources and digital financial services.

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​Hon. Mutati praised IHS Zambia for its efficiency, emphasizing that the government is committed to providing Zambians with top-tier digital services. He stressed the importance of government oversight in these projects, stating, “you cannot expect what you do not inspect,” a clear indication of a hands-on approach to ensuring timely and high-quality delivery.

​Updates on the national digital expansion plan were also provided. According to Mr. Collins Chomba, ZICTA’s Director of Universal Access and Services, 43 of the 51 towers in remote areas are already complete, with the remaining eight scheduled for completion by the third quarter of this year. Looking ahead, an additional 80 towers are planned for construction nationwide in the fourth quarter as part of the ongoing effort to broaden digital access.

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​This collaborative effort between the government, ZICTA, Airtel, and IHS Zambia is a powerful testament to the effectiveness of the PPP model. By combining the strengths of the public and private sectors, Zambia is rapidly accelerating the development of a robust digital economy.

This initiative is a significant step toward a more digitally connected and inclusive future for the country, promising to:

​Enhance service quality and internet reliability.

​Support education and digital financial inclusion.

​Strengthen nationwide connectivity through sustainable, smart energy-powered towers.