13 October 2022

Airtel Networks Zambia Plc, MTN Zambia and Zamtel have jointly established a lobby group to champion the interests of GSM telecommunications operators, called The Global System for Mobile Association of Zambia (GSMAZ).

GSMAZ will collaborate with local government, ZICTA and other organisations to encourage growth of the digital economy and promote policies, in line with the government’s objective to increase access to and utilisation of high-quality and reasonably priced financial services.

A statement released by the companies explained that GSMAZ will be used as a platform for influencing and ensuring the emergence and sustained development “of pro-competitive, harmonised telecommunications policies and legal and regulatory frameworks in Zambia.”

“The launch of GSMAZ comes at an opportune time with the national development focus and intends to influence the efficient development and sustained growth of a strong and vibrant mobile telecommunications sector in Zambia based on the recognition that mobile technology plays a crucial role in tackling numerous socio-economic development concerns across the country, particularly digital and financial inclusion,” said MTN Zambia CEO and current GSMAZ Chairperson Bart Hofker. “This digital inclusion will promote infrastructure and economic growth, boost employment and productivity across the country, and enhance access to essential services like healthcare and education.”