Zambian company SMART teams up with MTN to boost internet connectivity and digital offerings
In a significant move to strengthen Zambia's digital identity, SMART Zambia has partnered with MTN Zambia and MTN Group. This collaboration is focused on expanding digital connectivity, particularly in rural areas, and improving services across sectors like health, education, and agriculture.
A major component of the initiative is the expansion of "Project Diplomatique," which seeks to bring government services closer to the people. This project aims to integrate banks and post offices as new service points, alleviating pressure on existing, high-demand government facilities.
One of the key initiatives under this partnership is the launch of GovLink, a secure and reliable 4G private network aimed at public institutions. This network supports the digital transformation of public services, facilitating better access to internet connectivity outside urban centers.
MTN's broader strategy includes strengthening digital and financial services by investing in infrastructure and community development projects that build digital skills and promote digital ecosystems in the health, education, and agriculture sectors. Although this specific project is in Ghana, it reflects MTN Group's regional approach and potential replication in Zambia.
The collaboration is also part of an overall effort by MTN to leverage advanced technologies like AI and mobile money to empower individuals and businesses, including rural and informal sectors. MTN Mobile Money Zambia's partnership with JUMO to launch an overdraft service, for example, has improved financial inclusion by providing accessible credit facilities through mobile platforms, benefiting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which form 97% of Zambia’s business sector.
Both parties have agreed to form dedicated execution teams for the successful implementation of the vision. These teams will be responsible for translating the plans into tangible results and scaling up access to services nationwide. Enhanced digital infrastructure is expected to lead to significant improvements in service delivery and efficiency.
In summary, the SMART Zambia-MTN partnership is advancing digital infrastructure through projects such as GovLink to increase rural connectivity and integrating digital financial solutions that empower users. Broader MTN initiatives in AI and digital skills development support these efforts to improve services in critical sectors like health, education, and agriculture, making this collaboration a key driver in Zambia's digital transformation. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to building a more innovative, connected, and inclusive Zambia.
Technology is essential to the successful implementation of the SMART Zambia-MTN partnership, as it will be leveraged to enhance education services in rural areas and promote digital skills development. This commitment to technology reflects a shared vision of building a more innovative and connected Zambia, where improved digital infrastructure can lead to significant advancements in service delivery and efficiency.
