Ericsson announced on Monday it has inaugurated its new office in Lusaka, Zambia, which it said marks a significant step towards not only enhancing its local and regional presence, but also supporting Zambia’s digital transformation ambitions.

Ericsson said the new office will strengthen its engagement with customers and partners in Zambia in terms of continuous collaboration, providing them with the latest technological advancements, and enhancing local talent development.

Ericsson also aims to broaden its operational presence by providing its latest products and solutions that drive national technological growth and digital inclusion.

“This presence enables us to collaborate more closely with our partners, customers, and stakeholders, ensuring that our solutions continue to deliver high-performing, energy-efficient networks that meet national connectivity goals,” said Alain Maupin, VP and head of Ericsson East and North Africa, at Ericsson Europe, Middle East and Africa.

Felix Mutati, Zambia’s Minister of Technology and Science, said Ericsson’s escalated presence in Zambia will play a key role in advancing the country’s  National Digital Transformation Strategy 2023-2027.

“This development supports our efforts to expand connectivity, empower innovation, and ensure that digital technologies contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable future for all Zambians,” Mutati said in a statement.

Zambia’s National Digital Transformation Strategy aims to integrate digital technologies across all sectors to enhance productivity, create jobs and promote economic growth, building on five core pillars: digital infrastructure, digital platforms, digital services, digital literacy and skills, and digital innovation and entrepreneurship.

On the infrastructure side, that includes expanding broadband coverage and increasing the number of telecoms towers and data centres, as wel as upgrading the existing telecoms network to support 4G and IoT connectivity.