New MoU to Boost National Connectivity


The collaboration will connect over 3,200 health facilities and 10,000 schools across the country

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia24 — (9-12-2025) - A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between SMART Zambia Institute and ZESCO Limited is set to expand digital connectivity across Zambia, targeting more than 3,200 health facilities and over 10,000 schools. 

The agreement is expected to modernize public services through cost-effective, reliable digital infrastructure.

ZESCO’s telecommunications subsidiary, Fibrecom, will lead the implementation, connecting schools, health centres, and police stations to enhance e-learning, electronic health records, telemedicine, and other digital government services.

ZESCO Managing Director Justine Longo said the MoU represents a major national investment.

 
“Connecting schools, clinics, and police stations is not just a technology upgrade—it is an investment in access, responsiveness, and equity,” Longo said.

“Fibrecom will ensure the design, construction, and maintenance are coordinated and measurable, making sure the impact reaches every community.”


SMART Zambia National Coordinator Percy Chinyama highlighted that the project will use existing infrastructure, reducing costs and avoiding the need to bring in new systems.

“This reflects what our government stands for—using what we already have. This MoU will unlock connectivity not only in the public sector but for all citizens,” Chinyama said.

“With Zambia’s growing population and rising demand for electricity and technology, this project addresses both immediate and future needs.”

SMART Zambia Director of Infrastructure Paison Chikoye said that currently, less than 55 percent of health facilities and about 30 percent of schools are connected to the internet.

 “Technology equalizes opportunities. With this partnership, every school and health facility across all 116 districts can be connected cost-effectively,” Chikoye explained.

“For schools, it means access to digital learning resources. For health facilities, it allows electronic health records to follow patients across hospitals, ensuring continuity of care.”

Chinyama added that the partnership allows government services to reach even the most remote areas efficiently, leveraging ZESCO’s fibre network and strategic infrastructure.

The MoU is expected to accelerate the rollout of digital public services, improve the quality of education and health care, and advance the goals of the Smart Zambia Programme. Implementation will begin immediately, marking a significant milestone toward nationwide digital inclusion.
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