SLOW IMPLEMENTATION OF SADC ONE NETWORK SYSTEM WORRIES MUTATI

MINISTER of Technology and Science Felix Mutati has expressed concern with the slowness at which some SADC countries are responding to the implementation of a one network system across the SADC region.

Speaking during the 24th Capacity Traffic Southern Africa Conference hosted by Zamtel in Lusaka, Mr. Mutati says the implementation of the one network system has been sluggish despite SADC countries reaching an agreement to it over 10 years ago.

Mr Mutati attributed the slowness in the implementation of the one network system to lack of consensus on tariffs among network providers in the region.

He has however disclosed that Zambia Malawi, Zimbabwe and Botswana are conducting a pilot project of the one network system to determine how effective this can be actualized.

And Mr Mutati has implored the participants to also look at ways that will ensure that digital platforms create efficiency.

“We need to find ways of ensuring that we connect effectively but also with affordability,” said Mr Mutati

He has implored the Zambia Information and Communications Authority (ZICTA) and other key stakeholders to find means and ways that will assist in delivering accessibility, availability and Affordability.

And speaking at the same event, ZAMTEL Chief Executive Officer Jason Mwanza says there is need for close collaboration among SADC countries to achieve digital transformation. Mr Mwanza says Zamtel recognises the pivotal role that telecommunications play in facilitating connectivity and meeting the evolving demands of the interconnected world.

He says Zambia as a land locked country leverages its strategic location to transit traffic through various SADC countries thereby contributing to regional integration and development.

Meanwhile Southern Africa Telecommunication Association Chief Executive Officer Jacob Munodawafa is elated the SADC region is making strides in ensuring the development of digital infrastructure.