Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, says collaboration and partnerships amongst African countries remain critical for the continent to develop homegrown solutions through technology and innovation.
Speaking when Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation for Ghana, Samuel George, paid a courtesy call on him in Lusaka, Mr Mutati noted that one of the most critical aspects of the visit by the Ghanaian delegation is the emphasis on partnerships and collaboration in the area of technology and innovation.
He explained that the two nations were going to work together to focus on the practical requirements needed to actualise the vision in various sectors such as education, health, fintech, and artificial intelligence aimed at improving the livelihoods of people in both countries.
ZANIS reports that the Minister noted that the Ghanaian delegation included 12 private sector players in the field of technology and added that Zambia aspired to reach similar levels.
Mr Mutati further emphasised the importance of developing homegrown solutions to Africa’s challenges through private sector – led collaboration.
He added that the visit would enable the two countries to share experiences and knowledge across different technological areas.
“We admire the progress that Ghana has made in health, education and agricultural technology,” he said.
Mr Mutati also acknowledged the contributions made by both countries to technology and innovation in Africa through the Minetech hub housed by Zambia and Agritech Hub in Ghana.
“These are hubs for Africa. So Zambia is responsible for delivering technology surrounding mining for the entire Africa. Ghana is also responsible for the Agritech, for the entire Africa,” noted the Minister.
And, Ghana’s Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel George, disclosed that Ghana has identified Zambia as a country of focus to build a partnership with and have as hub for Ghanaian technology in the SADC region.
He also announced that he has led the advance party of the visitation of his country’s President, John Mahama to Zambia tomorrow as a facilitator of business between the private sectors of the two countries.
“We are here with 12 companies from Ghana and we already have two other companies that are Ghanaian that are working in Zambia that we would want to support as well, so the intention is not to go back with just the 12 companies we are bringing here but also 22 companies from Zambia that we can open our doors to as well,” Mr George stated.
He further emphasised the importance of promoting digital trade among African countries, in order to strengthen trade and collaboration.
