Zambia’s Ministry of Technology and Science has launched the 2025 Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Policy, a bold strategy to leverage innovation for economic competitiveness and sustainable development. The policy, unveiled by Minister Felix Chipota Mutati, MP, outlines a roadmap to align science and technology with Zambia’s inclusive growth objectives, positioning the nation as a regional innovation hub.

“This policy is about real economic transformation,” Mutati declared at the launch. “When President Hakainde Hichilema speaks of exporting $1 billion in beef, it demands advanced cattle genetics and disease control. Producing 10 billion tons of maize requires translating research into tangible agricultural gains.” The minister emphasized the policy’s relevance amid global advancements in AI, robotics, green energy, biotechnology, and space science.

The STI Policy is built on key pillars. Over K3 billion will be invested in Research and Development (R&D) to strengthen Zambia’s innovation ecosystem, including upgraded infrastructure, national research priorities, and a centralized research database. For AI and emerging technologies, K8 million is allocated for regulatory frameworks, ethical standards, and educational initiatives to establish Zambia as an AI leader in the region.

To foster technology commercialization, the policy introduces five new technology transfer offices, innovation hubs, and science parks, alongside a national startup database and commercialization guidelines. Human capital development is prioritized, with plans to train 500 postgraduate STEM students through scholarships, mentorship, and exchange programs, while also engaging the Zambian diaspora and preserving indigenous knowledge through dedicated R&D centers and legal frameworks.

The policy aims to increase Zambia’s Gross Expenditure on R&D from 0.28% to 0.50% of GDP by 2029. With copper dominating 70% of export earnings, the STI Policy seeks to diversify the economy by supporting agriculture, manufacturing, and healthcare through applied research and digital transformation.