The 12th edition of the Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum (DRIF25) is currently underway at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, drawing innovators, policymakers, civil society leaders, and digital experts from across Africa. This year’s theme, “Promoting Digital Ubuntu in Approaches to Technology,” reflects a growing movement to create ethical, inclusive, and human-centered digital ecosystems on the continent.
Leading Zambia’s presence at the event is the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), which is playing a key role in shaping conversations around technology and inclusion in Africa’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Minister Mutati: “We Must Think Boldly and Creatively”
Officiating the opening ceremony, Minister of Technology and Science Hon. Felix Mutati delivered a compelling call to action, urging African countries to develop homegrown solutions tailored to their unique contexts.
“Whether addressing digital inclusion, privacy rights, cybersecurity, or access to education and healthcare, we must use our talents, knowledge, and resources to transform lives across the continent,” said Mutati.
“We must think boldly and creatively.”
The Minister’s remarks set the tone for DRIF25, which aims to foster cross-sector collaboration and bold policy shifts in response to Africa’s digital challenges and opportunities.
Major Announcements Signal a Bold Digital Future
During his keynote, Minister Mutati unveiled several key initiatives that are set to accelerate Zambia’s digital transformation:
- Tax reforms to encourage investment: The removal of taxation barriers on digital infrastructure is expected to stimulate private sector investment and improve nationwide connectivity.
- 5G expansion: Over 600 communication towers will be upgraded to 5G by the end of 2025, signaling a massive leap in connectivity and network performance.
- National Digital Transformation Strategy: A comprehensive strategy is being launched to drive innovation and align public and private efforts toward smart, inclusive growth.
- Mining-sector innovation challenge: In collaboration with the United Nations and UNDP, a challenge involving 25,000 participants will drive new ideas and technologies in Zambia’s mining sector.
- Digital agriculture successes: Use of digital tools in agriculture helped eliminate over 220,000 incorrect fertilizer distributions in the last farming season, showcasing the tangible benefits of data-driven solutions.
A Vision for Inclusive Technology
Minister Mutati stressed that digital transformation must be people-centric, serving the needs of all Zambians—especially those in rural and underserved communities. The focus, he noted, should be on creating accessible, transparent, and economically viable digital services.
“Our vision is to position Zambia as a digital leader in Africa—not just in policy, but in impact,” Mutati stated. “This can only be achieved through smart policymaking, strong partnerships, and a relentless commitment to innovation.”
DRIF25: A Leading Platform for Digital Policy Dialogue
Running from April 29–30, 2025, DRIF25 continues to serve as one of Africa’s foremost platforms for digital rights and inclusion. The forum unites stakeholders from government, the private sector, academia, and international organizations to shape digital futures that are ethical, secure, and inclusive.
By hosting this year’s edition, Zambia reaffirms its commitment to playing a leading role in the continent’s digital revolution—where innovation meets equity, and progress is shared.
As DRIF25 continues, the conversations sparked in Lusaka are expected to resonate far beyond Zambia’s borders, shaping policies, partnerships, and platforms for years to come.