Zambia has launched its 2025 Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Policy, a strategic framework aimed at harnessing the power of innovation to transform the nation’s economy and improve livelihoods.
The policy sets out to align scientific research and technological development with Zambia’s broader goals of inclusive growth, job creation, and global competitiveness. Speaking at the launch, Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Chipota Mutati, stressed that science must deliver practical solutions to national challenges. He emphasized that government targets such as exporting $1 billion worth of beef or significantly boosting maize production can only be achieved by applying innovations in agriculture, biotechnology, and animal health.
Innovation-driven economy
To build this innovation-driven economy, the government has allocated over ZMW 3 billion to research and development. The policy outlines actions such as setting national research priorities, upgrading scientific infrastructure, and creating a centralized database for all R&D activities to improve coordination and data sharing.
A notable component of the policy is its focus on emerging technologies. With ZMW 8 million set aside, Zambia will develop guidelines, education programs, and public awareness campaigns around artificial intelligence, robotics, biotechnology, and other advanced technologies. The aim is to position Zambia as a leader in ethical and responsible tech innovation.
Commercializing research outcomes is also a core priority. The government plans to establish five new technology transfer offices, innovation hubs, and science parks. These institutions will help bridge the gap between research and the market, supporting startups and entrepreneurs to bring new products and services to scale.
Human capital development is central to the STI strategy. The policy targets the training of at least 500 postgraduate students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields through scholarships, mentorships, and exchange programs. The government also intends to better engage the Zambian diaspora, protect traditional knowledge systems, and increase national investment in R&D to 0.5% of GDP by 2029.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Technology and Science, Eng. Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, highlighted the collaborative approach taken to develop the policy, involving academic institutions, industry players, civil society, and international partners. He described the policy as a national blueprint for innovation at a time of rapid global technological change.
With this new direction, Zambia is aiming to become a regional hub for innovation and a knowledge-based economy ready to take advantage of opportunities in AI, green energy, biotechnology, and digital transformation.