Airtel Zambia Participates in Discussion on Digital Economy with the President
In a significant move towards Zambia's digital transformation, Airtel Networks Zambia Plc participated in the Digital Economy Roundtable convened by President Hakainde Hichilema. The event brought together key industry players from the ICT and telecommunications sectors.
During the roundtable, President Hichilema highlighted the transformative potential of digital technologies in sectors such as healthcare and education. He encouraged industry leaders to collaborate with the government to ensure that all communities benefit from the country's digital progress.
Airtel Zambia, through its ongoing partnership with UNICEF, reiterated its commitment to connecting schools to the Internet. This partnership, part of a broader five-year, multi-million dollar partnership between Airtel Africa and UNICEF launched in 2025, aims to accelerate digital learning rollout across Africa.
Airtel Zambia's role in this partnership includes expanding Internet connectivity infrastructure specifically for schools, thereby enabling digital learning environments that contribute to Zambia's wider digital transformation efforts. This partnership also exemplifies the deepening of public-private collaboration to build a robust and inclusive digital economy in Zambia.
Airtel Networks Zambia Plc emphasized its ongoing investment in digital infrastructure, innovation, and inclusive connectivity. The telecommunications giant's continued investment in rural and underserved areas' 4G and fibre infrastructure was also highlighted. Airtel reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Zambia's digital vision by continuing the expansion of its 4G and fibre networks.
President Hichilema praised Airtel's dedication to innovating for impact, empowering communities, and supporting national development through accessible, affordable digital services. He encouraged other industry leaders to follow suit, stating that such partnerships are crucial in ensuring that no community is left behind in Zambia's digital journey.
The roundtable marked a significant step toward deeper public-private collaboration in building a robust, inclusive digital economy. As Airtel Zambia and UNICEF continue their partnership, they are not only providing digital services but also contributing to the national dialogue on digital transformation.
References:
- Airtel Africa and UNICEF Launch Five-Year, Multi-Million Dollar Partnership to Accelerate Digital Learning Rollout Across Africa. (2025, March 1). Retrieved from https://www.airtel.com/news/airtel-africa-and-unicef-launch-five-year-multi-million-dollar-partnership-to-accelerate-digital-learning-rollout-across-africa
- Airtel Zambia and UNICEF Partner to Connect Schools to the Internet. (2021, September 1). Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/zambia/media/1628508
- Airtel Zambia: Driving Digital Transformation in Education. (2022, May 1). Retrieved from https://www.airtel.com/zambia/about-us/news/airtel-zambia-driving-digital-transformation-in-education
- The collaboration between Airtel Zambia and UNICEF, initiated in 2025, is focused on accelerating digital learning across Africa, with a particular focus on connecting schools to the Internet.
- Airtel Zambia's role in this partnership involves expanding Internet connectivity infrastructure for schools, fostering digital learning environments and contributing to Zambia's digital transformation efforts.
- President Hichilema advocates for industry leaders to collaborate with the government, leveraging digital technologies to transform sectors like healthcare and education, ensuring inclusive digital progress for all communities.
- Airtel's ongoing investment in digital infrastructure, innovation, and inclusive connectivity, particularly in rural and underserved areas, aligns with the president's vision for a robust and inclusive digital economy in Zambia.
