Built by IHS Zambia, these towers are part of a strategic public-private partnership (PPP) aimed at increasing digital access and improving service quality across the nation. During an inspection visit, Hon. Felix C. Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science, praised IHS Zambia for its efficient infrastructure deployment, emphasizing the government’s commitment to bridging Zambia’s digital divide. He underscored the importance of oversight, stating, “You cannot expect what you do not inspect,” to ensure timely and high-quality delivery of the project.
The nationwide tower expansion is well underway, with 40 of the 152 towers being constructed by IHS Zambia already operational. An additional 12 towers are expected to come online by the end of September, and the project aims for full completion by November 2025. In Lusaka Province alone, 38 towers have been deployed, including the two new sites in Silverest, which is strategically located near the University of Lusaka. These towers utilize smart energy systems powered by solar, batteries, and generators, ensuring continuous service while addressing issues like dropped calls and poor connectivity. The Silverest tower is expected to significantly benefit over 11,000 students by improving access to educational resources and digital financial services.
Supporting Zambia’s digital agenda, Mr. Collins Chomba, Director of Universal Access and Services at the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA), reported that 43 of the 51 towers planned for remote areas are already completed, with the remaining eight scheduled to be finalized by the third quarter of this year. An additional 80 towers are slated for construction in the final quarter, further extending network coverage nationwide.
This large-scale rollout exemplifies the effectiveness of Zambia’s PPP model, which leverages government leadership and private sector expertise to accelerate digital transformation. The initiative aims to enhance service reliability, promote educational and financial inclusion for underserved communities, and establish sustainable infrastructure through smart energy solutions. With these advancements, Zambia is making important strides toward building a digitally inclusive economy, ensuring that reliable, affordable, and modern communication services reach all citizens.
