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Smart Village Showcase: A Transformational Approach to Digitization

In a groundbreaking collaboration, the Ministry of Science and Technology of Zambia partnered with technology giant Huawei to introduce a global showcase of smart villages. This initiative was unveiled during the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, held in the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain. The launch event, titled "Secure, Sovereign, and Synergistic Network-Cloud Strategy Accelerating National Digitization," aimed to explore innovative pathways for rural digital transformation.

The event attracted an impressive assembly of over 200 industry leaders and technical experts in public services, all gathered to discuss how digital technologies can fundamentally reshape national development. The emphasis was on harnessing digital innovation to empower communities, enhance government capabilities, and ultimately improve the quality of life for citizens.

During the event, Li Junfeng, Vice President of Huawei and CEO of the Global Public Sector Business Unit, addressed the audience about the critical role of digital transformation in strengthening government capacities. He noted that artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront of this transformation, revolutionizing public services and driving efficiency across various sectors. The extensive application of technologies like DeepSeek represents not only a technological advancement but a significant shift in production dynamics.

In July 2024, Zambia successfully completed its first smart village within just 30 days of construction. This pilot project provided the village with access to electricity and the internet and facilitated telemedicine and remote learning. Minister Felix C. Mutati emphasized that this smart village project aligns seamlessly with Zambia's Vision 2030. He conveyed the importance of empowering future generations through smart education that equips them with essential digital skills needed for success in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

"Digital transformation in Zambia is more than just technology – it’s about the people, progress, and potential. It’s about empowering communities, overcoming inequalities, and creating a future where every Zambian can significantly contribute to the country's development," said Minister Mutati.

Huawei's commitment aligns with the concept of accelerating intelligent governance and public services while collaboratively building a knowledge-based society. The company continues to expand its business scenarios and develop extensive digital technology applications to realize its vision of "excellent public governance, improved livelihood, and robust economies." This vision supports governments worldwide in creating a fair, efficient, and sustainable digital society.

As discussions at MWC progressed, Ko Chung-Eng, the Global Chief Public Services Industry Scientist at Huawei, invited various guests to explore national digital transformation strategies. Their insights underscored the fundamental shift occurring globally, as nations increasingly pivot toward modernizing public services using AI-based solutions.

The dialogue held at MWC 2025 reflects a significant trend in which governments are leveraging technology to instigate meaningful social change and improve access to essential services, especially in remote villages. The enthusiasm around the smart village initiative demonstrates the potential of digitalization to address real-world challenges and foster inclusive growth. This collaboration between Zambia and Huawei symbolizes a chapter in a broader global narrative, where innovation paves the way for sustainable development and enhanced public welfare.

By pursuing this ambitious initiative, Zambia not only aims to modernize its public services but also to set a precedent for other nations to follow, showcasing how strategic technology partnerships can lead to transformative outcomes in society. The journey towards a smarter, more connected world begins in the village, and Zambia and Huawei are at the forefront of this exciting evolution.