5G Boosts Connectivity



Chaaba says Infrastructure development and regulatory reforms propel sector expansion

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 
Lusaka, Zambia24 — (27-03-2026) ---The rollout of 5G networks and ongoing infrastructure development are driving significant growth in Zambia’s ICT sector, according to the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA).

Hanford Chaaba, Manager of Corporate Communications at ZICTA told Zambia24 that the 2025 ICT and Postal Sector Market Performance Report shows mobile subscriptions rose 13.1 percent, from 23.2 million in 2024 to 26.2 million in 2025, while internet subscriptions increased by 10.1 percent to 14.7 million. 

Chaaba, the sector’s growth is fueled by higher demand for broadband services, more affordable ICT packages, and greater adoption of digital platforms.

Mr. Chaaba said regulatory reforms and network expansion, including the 5G rollout, are key drivers of the sector’s performance.

“Investments in network capacity and digital platforms, combined with tailored service packages, are improving connectivity and driving higher usage across the country,” he said.

Domestic outgoing voice traffic rose 3.6 percent to 36 billion minutes, while mobile network bandwidth utilisation increased from 66.8 percent to 67.5 percent.

 Telecommunications towers increased from 3,551 to 3,751, with operational sites reaching 14,909, largely due to 5G infrastructure expansion. 

These improvements contributed to a 13.9 percent increase in revenues for mobile network operators, from ZMW 11.54 billion in 2024 to ZMW 13.15 billion in 2025.

Key regulatory milestones include the revision of Consumer Protection Guidelines, introduction of a new ICT Licensing Framework, and the launch of the National Child Online Protection Strategy (2025–2029). 

Additional initiatives include the transition to digital recharge platforms and enactment of the Cybersecurity Act, which enabled the creation of a national cybersecurity agency.

Looking ahead, ZICTA expects mobile subscriptions to reach 27.8 million by the end of 2026. 

Network coverage will expand with over 300 new towers under the World Bank-supported Digital Zambia Acceleration Project (DZAP) and additional operator-led infrastructure investments. 

Improvements in electricity supply and alternative energy solutions are expected to lower operational costs and enhance service quality.

ZICTA cautions that increasing digital adoption also brings greater cybersecurity risks, emphasizing the need for ongoing consumer awareness and strengthened safeguards.

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