10 December 2025
The Zambian government has announced a new requirement for mobile network operators to build additional telecommunications towers as part of its efforts to bridge the digital divide and accelerate connectivity across the country.
This directive was communicated through a statement from the Ministry of Technology and Science following the recent end-of-year Reflections and Leadership Transition ceremony held by the GSM Association of Zambia (GSMAZ). During the event, MTN CEO Abbad Reda was announced as the new chairperson, succeeding Zamtel CEO Jason Mwanza.
The move aims to eliminate a significant obstacle to network expansion by encouraging telecom companies to invest in infrastructure development, including the construction of new towers. This initiative was discussed at the Digital Economy Roundtable last month, where government officials, industry stakeholders, and development partners emphasized the importance of collaboration to enhance digital inclusion and support the nation’s broader digital transformation goals.
ZEMA, the country’s environmental oversight authority, will oversee the implementation of this infrastructure upgrade, ensuring that all construction activities and e-waste management comply with environmental regulations. Nkula Mwanza, director of digital communications at the ministry, highlighted the sector’s central role in Zambia’s development agenda, noting that telecommunications are foundational to expanding e-government services, digital financial solutions, innovation hubs, cybersecurity, and the emerging digital skills economy, all guided by GSMAZ’s leadership.
Mwanza emphasized that the government recognizes the critical importance of strong industry partnerships in achieving its strategic objectives, including universal service access and improved public service delivery. He praised GSMAZ’s ongoing leadership and active engagement in shaping a resilient and inclusive telecom landscape, vital for Zambia’s long-term digital ambitions.
The incoming GSMAZ chair, Abbad Reda, was congratulated on assuming leadership during a pivotal time when Zambia is rapidly advancing its digital initiatives, such as broadband expansion, digital identity systems, and capacity building in cybersecurity and digital skills. Mwanza expressed confidence that Reda’s experience and vision would propel the association into a new era of growth and innovation.
He also urged Reda to address ongoing challenges related to network quality, referencing a recent 21-day ultimatum issued by Zambia’s ICT regulator, the Zambia Information and Communication Technology Authority, demanding immediate improvements in service resilience and quality from telecom operators and tower companies. Mwanza emphasized that, through collective effort, Zambia can become a digitally empowered nation where innovation flourishes, opportunities grow, and technology serves as a catalyst for national development.
