The 2026 Zambia Mobile Congress officially opened at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, drawing attention from government leaders, technology experts and industry stakeholders focused on the future of digital innovation in the country. The event is being held under the theme “Advancing AI Intelligence in Zambia,” reflecting a national push toward integrating artificial intelligence into economic and public service systems. Vice President Dr. W.K. Mutale Nalumango officiated at the gathering, marking the importance government places on technology as a driver of development. The congress serves as a platform for dialogue on how mobile technologies and artificial intelligence can reshape industries and improve efficiency. It also highlights Zambia’s growing ambition to position itself within the global digital economy through innovation-led strategies.
The Vice President emphasized that the government remains committed to building an enabling environment that supports technological advancement across all sectors. This includes policies aimed at strengthening digital infrastructure, encouraging entrepreneurship and expanding access to digital tools for citizens. The focus is not only on large-scale technological adoption but also on ensuring inclusive participation so that rural and urban communities benefit equally. The government views artificial intelligence as a critical tool for improving service delivery in areas such as health, education, agriculture and governance. By investing in digital transformation, Zambia aims to create new economic opportunities while improving the efficiency of public systems. The congress provides a space where these ideas can be explored in depth through collaboration between the public and private sectors.
Stakeholders attending the Zambia Mobile Congress include innovators, mobile network operators, technology companies, policymakers and academic researchers. Their participation reflects the multi-sectoral nature of digital transformation and the need for shared responsibility in building a connected economy. Discussions at the event are expected to focus on how artificial intelligence can be applied to solve real-world challenges facing Zambia. These include improving financial inclusion, expanding digital payments, enhancing agricultural productivity and strengthening data-driven decision-making in government. The presence of industry leaders also allows for the exchange of ideas on investment opportunities and emerging technologies that can support national growth. The congress is designed to encourage practical solutions rather than theoretical discussions, ensuring that outcomes can be implemented in real contexts.
Vice President Nalumango highlighted that digital transformation is not only a technological goal but also a development strategy that can uplift communities. She noted that artificial intelligence and mobile technologies have the potential to accelerate socio-economic growth by creating jobs, improving access to services and enhancing communication systems. The government is particularly interested in how AI can improve public service delivery by reducing inefficiencies and increasing accuracy in decision-making processes. There is also a strong focus on developing skills among young people so they can participate meaningfully in the digital economy. Training and capacity-building initiatives are seen as essential to ensuring that Zambia does not only consume technology but also contributes to its development. The congress reinforces the importance of aligning technological progress with national development goals.
The theme “Advancing AI Intelligence in Zambia” reflects a forward-looking vision that places innovation at the centre of national planning. It acknowledges the global shift toward artificial intelligence as a key driver of economic competitiveness and productivity. Zambia’s participation in this global movement demonstrates its intention to remain relevant in a rapidly changing technological landscape. The discussions at the congress are expected to influence future policy directions and investment priorities in the ICT sector. As the event continues, participants will explore practical frameworks for implementing AI solutions that address local challenges while supporting long-term development. The gathering stands as a strong statement of Zambia’s commitment to embracing the future of digital transformation with purpose and inclusivity.