Zambia Roundup: AI centre, connectivity boost, de-dollarisation strategy
National Arts Festival
The vibrant fabric of Zambia's cultural landscape was prominently displayed during the 2024 National Arts Festival in Lusaka. Organised meticulously by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Art and the Zambia National Arts Council, this festival served as a nexus for artistic expression, bringing together artists from various backgrounds. The News Diggers reports that through a series of captivating performances and fashion shows, this event underscored the emotional resonance of art while fostering a communal spirit, culminating in a celebration of creativity that reaffirmed the vital role of art in mirroring the nation's socio-cultural essence.
Google to build an AI centre
In a significant technological advancement, Google has announced the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence Centre of Excellence at the University of Zambia. This initiative comes after a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Technology and Science. As articulated by Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati, this AI centre marks a pioneering effort as the first of its kind in Southern Africa, strategically situated at the Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN). As reported by TechAfrica News, the primary objective of this centre is to empower young innovators, equipping them with the necessary tools to devise solutions for local challenges. Furthermore, ZAMREN's noteworthy achievement of connecting 150 institutions to high-speed internet is instrumental in broadening student access, thereby fostering an environment conducive to innovation.
Tanzania-Zambia Railway to be rejuvenated
The regional cooperation between China, Tanzania, and Zambia is set to rejuvenate the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA), which was initially established in the 1970s to enhance Zambia’s accessibility. This collaborative agreement, formalised during the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit, signals a public-private partnership aimed at the rehabilitation of this critical transport artery. According to Globely News, the revival of TAZARA is especially pertinent given Zambia's current financial challenges, as this renewed focus by China is also an effort to counterbalance the strategic movements surrounding the U.S.-backed Lobito Corridor project which connects Zambia to Angola’s Atlantic port. Concurrently, Tanzania is undertaking its railway network expansion, with aspirations to position Dar es Salaam as a pivotal trade hub in the region.
Huawei donates telecom towers
Huawei has donated equipment for 25 communication towers to enhance national communication services. The donation, including wireless and transmission technology power systems, was formalized during President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to China in September 2023 and solidified through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Technology and Science in June 2024. Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati announced that Zamtel will oversee the construction of these towers in remote areas with limited phone service access, as reported by Telecompaper.
De-dollarisation strategy in progress
Zambia's central bank is actively engaging in a de-dollarisation strategy to mitigate the depreciation of the kwacha, which has faced a staggering 22% decline against the dollar over the past year. Governor Denny Kalyalya disclosed that this initiative, first announced in June, is designed to curtail the use of foreign currency in local transactions, thereby augmenting the effectiveness of monetary policy. Bitcoinnews.com reports this plan, however, has encountered criticism as Zambia grapples with the challenges of recovering from a debt default coupled with an extensive power crisis that restricts electricity supply to households. Despite the limited usage of foreign currency in everyday transactions, certain sectors, notably real estate and automotive sales, continue to engage in dollar-based pricing. The central bank remains in consultation with various stakeholders, and a timeline for the implementation of this de-dollarisation strategy has yet to be established.
