Lusaka is preparing to host the Mauritius–Zambia ICT Business Forum on March 23, 2026, a significant step toward bolstering technological partnerships and economic growth between the two nations. The forum, a key component of the Mauritius Africa Export of ICT Services Roadshow, aims to connect businesses, foster investment and accelerate digital transformation across the African continent. This initiative comes at a time when both Mauritius and Zambia are actively pursuing strategies to leverage technology for inclusive and sustainable development.
The collaboration underscores a growing recognition of the pivotal role technology plays in modernizing economies and improving livelihoods. The forum isn’t simply about deals; it’s about building a shared digital future, one that prioritizes innovation and regional cooperation. The focus on strengthening digital ecosystems and expanding cross-border partnerships reflects a broader trend of African nations seeking to reduce reliance on external technologies and cultivate homegrown solutions. This ICT Business Forum is designed to be a catalyst for that shift.
The event will bring together high-level government officials, industry leaders, and technology firms from both Mauritius and Zambia. Dr. Avinash Ramtohul, Mauritius’ Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, is scheduled to present his country’s regional ICT strategy, outlining Mauritius’ vision for a digitally connected Africa. Zambia’s Minister of Science and Technology, Felix Mutati, will officiate the proceedings and lead bilateral discussions focused on strengthening government-to-government collaboration. Minister Mutati has previously emphasized Zambia’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for technology-driven investment, according to a statement released by his ministry in November 2023. Ministry of Science and Technology, Zambia
Mauritian and Zambian Firms Prepare for B2B Meetings
A delegation of 11 private-sector companies from Mauritius will accompany the Economic Development Board Mauritius (EDB) to the forum. They will participate in over 70 pre-scheduled business-to-business meetings with Zambian enterprises. These sessions are designed to facilitate direct engagement, identify potential investment opportunities, and foster the exchange of skills and knowledge. Officials anticipate that these interactions will lead to the development of digital solutions specifically tailored to address the unique challenges and opportunities within African markets.
Albert Halwampa, Director General of the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), highlighted the strategic timing of the forum. He noted that Zambia is currently undertaking significant reforms to attract technology-driven investment. “We are actively working to position Zambia as a compelling destination for companies seeking to innovate and grow in Africa,” Halwampa stated in a recent press briefing. Zambia Development Agency He expressed confidence that the forum would generate partnerships capable of boosting innovation, creating jobs, and enhancing the competitiveness of local businesses.
Focus on Key Sectors and Government Support
The forum will see participation from representatives across key Zambian ministries, including Commerce, Trade and Industry, as well as Finance and National Planning. This broad representation signals the Zambian government’s commitment to integrating digital technologies into all aspects of the national economy. Mauritius, meanwhile, will showcase its expertise in areas such as fintech, cybersecurity, and broader digital transformation initiatives. Mauritius has established itself as a regional leader in these fields, attracting significant foreign investment and fostering a thriving tech ecosystem.
The Mauritian government has actively promoted its ICT sector through initiatives like the Mauritius Africa Fintech Hub (MAFH), which provides support and resources for fintech startups. Mauritius Africa Fintech Hub This focus on fintech aligns with the growing demand for innovative financial solutions across Africa, where access to traditional banking services remains limited for many.
Beyond Business: A Vision for Inclusive Growth
The Mauritius–Zambia ICT Business Forum represents more than just a commercial opportunity; it embodies a shared ambition to harness technology as a driver of inclusive and sustainable economic growth throughout the continent. Both nations recognize the potential of digital technologies to address critical challenges in areas such as healthcare, education, and agriculture. The forum aims to facilitate the development of solutions that are not only commercially viable but similarly socially impactful.
The emphasis on skills exchange is particularly important. Bridging the digital skills gap is crucial for ensuring that African citizens can fully participate in the digital economy. The forum will provide a platform for sharing best practices and identifying opportunities for collaborative training programs. This collaborative approach is essential for building a resilient and competitive workforce.
The forum’s organizers anticipate that the discussions will also address issues related to data privacy, cybersecurity, and the regulatory frameworks needed to support the growth of the digital economy. Establishing clear and consistent regulations is vital for fostering trust and attracting investment.
Looking ahead, the success of the Mauritius–Zambia ICT Business Forum will be measured not only by the number of deals signed but also by the long-term impact on innovation, job creation, and economic development in both countries. The next key milestone will be the publication of a joint statement outlining the specific commitments and action plans agreed upon during the forum, expected in April 2026. Further updates and information about the event can be found on the ZDA and EDB websites.
We encourage readers to share their thoughts on the potential of this partnership and its implications for the future of technology in Africa in the comments below.
