Physical Address
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The Ministry of Technology and Science in Zambia officially launched the Kitwe KVTC Telecommunications Tower on 15 February 2025, marking a significant milestone in expanding digital connectivity across the nation. The launch ceremony was officiated by the Honourable Minister of Technology and Science, Felix C. Mutati, MP, who commended IHS Towers for its sustained investment in strengthening Zambia’s telecommunications infrastructure and advancing the country’s digital transformation agenda.
During the launch event, IHS Towers Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Phiri, revealed that the company currently operates more than 87,000 telecommunications towers globally, with over 2,000 towers installed across Zambia. He emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to supporting government initiatives aimed at improving digital connectivity and delivering high-quality telecommunications services to Zambian citizens.
Beyond infrastructure development, IHS Towers actively engages in Corporate Social Responsibility projects throughout the country, including the construction of educational facilities and healthcare clinics, refurbishment of public institutions, and provision of power generators to ensure uninterrupted network services in remote and underserved communities.
The technical specifications of the Kitwe KVTC Telecommunications Tower were presented by IHS Director of Operations, Engineer Otun, who explained the innovative integrated energy system powering the infrastructure. The telecommunications towers utilize a hybrid energy solution combining diesel generators, advanced lithium battery technology, and solar power installations.
Under the current operational model, generators charge the lithium batteries for approximately two hours, which then power the tower facilities for about eight hours. Solar energy systems serve as a reliable backup power source during periods of high demand or equipment maintenance. Once the towers are successfully connected to the national electricity grid, the company plans to eliminate reliance on diesel generators entirely, significantly reducing operational costs and environmental impact while improving service reliability.
In a strategic partnership with Airtel Zambia, IHS Towers has successfully constructed 225 telecommunications towers since the previous year and has committed to completing an additional 75 towers by 31 March 2025. This ambitious expansion program will bring the nationwide total to 300 newly constructed telecommunications towers, dramatically improving network coverage and quality across both urban and rural areas of Zambia.
The infrastructure development represents a substantial investment in the country’s digital future and demonstrates the strong collaboration between government agencies, telecommunications operators, and infrastructure providers.
Minister Mutati highlighted the critical role that government policy has played in creating an enabling environment for telecommunications investment in Zambia.
He cited several key policy initiatives that have attracted substantial foreign and domestic investment, including comprehensive debt restructuring programs and the implementation of zero-rated import taxes on telecommunications equipment and infrastructure components. These supportive policies have successfully encouraged a remarkable USD 100 million investment in telecommunications tower construction across the country, positioning Zambia as an attractive destination for technology infrastructure development in the region.
The Minister presented compelling statistics demonstrating that Zambia’s Information and Communication Technology sector has emerged as the fastest-growing contributor to the national Gross Domestic Product, surpassing traditional economic pillars such as mining and agriculture.
The telecommunications and digital services sector contributed an impressive 17.4 percent to GDP in the previous year, reflecting the transformative impact of digital connectivity on economic growth and diversification. This remarkable growth trajectory underscores the importance of continued investment in telecommunications infrastructure as a driver of sustainable economic development.
Minister Mutati emphasized that the expansion of telecommunications infrastructure will deliver tangible benefits to Zambian citizens through improved network quality, reduced dropped calls, enhanced internet speeds, and broader geographic coverage. The improved digital connectivity will support inclusive economic development by empowering farmers with access to market information and mobile banking services, enabling marketeers to expand their customer base through digital platforms, and providing entrepreneurs with the tools needed to launch and scale technology-enabled businesses.
Additionally, enhanced telecommunications networks will facilitate the efficient implementation of critical government programs, including the Farmer Input Support Programme, Cash for Work initiatives, and the Social Cash Transfer Scheme, ensuring that support reaches beneficiaries promptly and transparently.
In his concluding remarks, Minister Mutati reaffirmed the Zambian government’s unwavering commitment to developing responsive and reliable communication systems throughout the country.
He stressed that improved telecommunications connectivity will be absolutely critical to achieving Zambia’s economic growth objectives and advancing social development priorities. The government recognizes that digital inclusion is no longer optional but essential for ensuring that all Zambian citizens can participate fully in the digital economy and access vital government services, educational resources, healthcare information, and economic opportunities.
The successful launch of the Kitwe KVTC Telecommunications Tower represents a concrete example of how public-private partnerships can accelerate infrastructure development and deliver measurable improvements in quality of life for citizens.
As Zambia continues to invest in digital infrastructure and create favorable conditions for telecommunications investment, the country is well-positioned to leverage technology as a catalyst for inclusive economic transformation and sustainable development in the years ahead.
