#Huawei #Barcelona #Zambia #Smart Village

Zambia and Huawei Launch Global Smart Village Showcase

At the MWC Barcelona 2025, a noteworthy partnership between the Ministry of Technology and Science of Zambia and Huawei was unveiled, showcasing a global demonstration of the Smart Village concept. This initiative represents a vital step towards exploring innovative modes of digital transformation for rural areas. More than 200 industry leaders and tech experts gathered at this significant government industry forum, themed "Secure, Sovereign, and Synergistic Network Cloud Strategy Accelerating National Digitization".

During the event, Felix C. Mutati, Zambia's Minister of Technology and Science, highlighted the project’s alignment with Zambia’s vision for development by 2030. Meanwhile, Li Junfeng (Wind), Vice President of Huawei and CEO of the Global Public Sector Business Unit, articulated the importance of digital transformation in enhancing national capabilities and citizen welfare. He emphasized that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a crucial driver of this transition.

The first Smart Village facility in Zambia was completed successfully in July 2024 after just 30 days of construction. This project not only provided electricity and internet access but also introduced telemedicine and remote learning capabilities. Such advancements are essential for improving the quality of life for those in rural communities and bridging the digital divide.

As government sectors worldwide accelerate the evolution of public services through AI, Huawei's involvement through the DeepSeek model showcases a significant technological progression. This model facilitates a fundamental shift in production dynamics, supporting the digital revolution across various sectors.

At the forum, Koh Hong-Eng, Chief Scientist of Huawei Global Public Sector Business Unit, invited various speakers to engage in dialogues about national digital transformation strategies. Mutati reiterated that the Smart Villages project embodies Zambia's commitment to leveraging intelligent education to enhance knowledge and equip the next generation with essential digital skills. The goal is to empower communities, reduce inequality, and foster a future where every Zambian can play a meaningful role in national development.

Huawei’s approach emphasizes accelerating the development of intelligent governance and public services while constructing a cognitive society. This strategy aims to utilize digital tools to achieve top-tier management, enhance living standards, and stimulate economic growth. Moreover, the company is dedicated to helping governments worldwide establish fair, efficient, and sustainable digital societies.

As Zambia ventures into this digital age, the Smart Village initiative stands as a testament to the potential of smart infrastructure in transforming the lives of many. Collaborative projects like this signal a future where innovation drives progress and prosperity for all citizens, making every individual a valuable contributor to the nation’s development. The commitment of the Zambian government alongside Huawei's support serves as a model for other nations aiming for similar outcomes in digital governance and community empowerment.

In conclusion, the partnership between Zambia and Huawei is not just about technology; it is about people, progress, and potential. It sets a precedent for how nations can harness digital transformation to improve public services, expand opportunities, and empower citizens to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The Smart Village initiative could become a crucial pillar of Zambia’s digital development strategy and an inspiration for similar projects globally.