SUBMISSION TO THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE ON MEDIA, INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES

The submission will address the following: a) The policy and regulatory frameworks governing ICT and FinTech in Zambia b) The state of Zambia’s ICT infrastructure, including details on internet connectivity, data centres, digital platforms, mobile networks and other relevant infrastructure components c) The effectiveness of mobile money services in reaching unserved and underserved areas in remote. [...] The Government of the Republic of Zambia approved the 2023 National ICT policy in October of this year. [...] It provides the overarching framework for development of the ICT sector focusing on accessibility of ICT services, innovation, digital skills, the use of e-services, ICT associated risks and enhancing the current legal and regulatory framework. [...] The Financial Sector Development Policy was developed by the Ministry of Finance and National Planning with the aim of having a well-developed, competitive, and inclusive financial system that supports efficient resource mobilisation and access to financial services and products by all. [...] Digital platforms ■ Government Service Bus: In the public sector, the Government has made progress in embracing electronic services by cutting down on paper- based and in-person access to services through the implementation of the Government Enterprise Service Bus (GSB) and the Government Payment Gateway.