GOOGLE TO ENTER ZAMBIA’S ICT SECTOR AFTER MOU WITH GOVT Google Cloud, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ministry of Technology and Science which will see the construction of a Center of Excellence in digital transformation, innovation, offering skills development and knowledge sharing. American technology Giant GOOGLE, has entered the Zambian market to revolutionalise the Information and Communication Technology -ICT- sector following incentives given by the government. Speaking at the signing ceremony in Lusaka, Technology and Science Minister Felix Mutati has disclosed that the incentives given to the private sector have played a key role in compelling Google to invest in Zambia. He also disclosed that since the incentives were given a year ago, internet penetration has risen from 53 to 64 percent. Mr. Mutati says in the last one year alone, the private sector has laid 5,000 kilometers of fibre optic, which brings the total to 25,000 kilometres of fibre optic laid since Zambia got its independence in 1964, this has significantly increased internet penetration. The Minister is hopeful that the coming of Google Cloud will help improve people’s lives. He also said the government is keen on utilizing the opportunities that Artificial Intelligence is bringing to the nation. And Google Cloud Director Global Strategic Initiatives Manuel Greisinger said the company is connecting Zambia to UMOJA, a fibre optic project which will run from Kenya through South Africa to Australia Mr. Greisinger said UMOJA will help Zambia adapt fast to artificial intelligence so that government services and private sector work can be enhanced. He said there is a need for Zambia to harness the power of technology. Meanwhile, Women in Technology Network Executive Chairperson Milimo Munyati said the signing of the MoU will enhance the work of those providing mentorship on digital transformation. Ms. Munyati said her organisation will fully embrace the partnership to ensure that all women benefit from technology.
