Johannesburg: AfricUpdate – News Desk
Ngabwe District in Zambia’s Central Province marked a milestone on 7 September 2025 with the launch of a new communication tower in Chief Munkumbwe’s Chiefdom, Lufubu Constituency. The project, officiated by the Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Chipota Mutati MP, is set to enhance digital connectivity, strengthen healthcare services, and open up new economic opportunities for residents. The newly commissioned tower will provide network coverage to 999 households, benefiting an estimated 5,500 people.
It is part of the government’s broader programme to roll out 163 towers nationwide, bridging the digital divide and supporting Zambia’s digital transformation agenda. Speaking at the launch, Minister Mutati emphasized the tower’s role in enabling mobile money services, access to e-learning, fertilizer purchases, and improved healthcare communication, including in theatre operations. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to prioritizing Ngabwe’s development as a new district, announcing that three more towers will be built to expand coverage.
Representatives from Zamtel, ZICTA, Lusaka Telecom Solutions, and the local council highlighted the tower’s wider impact, including financial inclusion, research and education opportunities, and support for rural businesses and farmers. ZICTA confirmed that the tower forms part of Phase 3 of its infrastructure programme, which includes the construction of 51 new towers and upgrades of existing sites from 2G to 4G.
Local leaders, including the District Commissioner, Council Chairperson, and Member of Parliament, expressed gratitude for the development, calling on residents to safeguard the tower and continue supporting government initiatives. The initiative also emphasizes youth engagement, with Lusaka Telecom Solutions noting that young subcontractors and graduates were involved in the project, contributing to skills development and job creation.
Healthcare leaders, including Dr. K. Mwila, Hospital In-Charge, underlined the life-saving role of reliable communication in consultations and referrals, describing the tower as “a tool to ease collaboration and improve patient care.” With this launch, Ngabwe takes a significant step towards becoming digitally connected, advancing financial inclusion, education, and healthcare delivery and setting the stage for sustainable growth in one of Zambia’s emerging districts.
