SMART Zambia has launched Phase Two of the Government Wide Area Network (GWAN) deployment in Muchinga Province, aiming to enhance Internet access for local government offices.
The launch was announced on Friday, October 25, via SMART Zambia’s LinkedIn. The initiative is part of a nationwide effort to boost digital connectivity and improve the region’s public services efficiency.
Led by senior ICT officer Hopeday Lupumpaula, the SMART Zambia team held meetings with local authorities and District Commissioners in Lavushimanda, Kanchibiya, Shiwang’andu, and Mafinga Districts. The team, which included ICT officers Temwani Chavula and Malizhi Chisupa, introduced the GWAN expansion and discussed the expected impact of this deployment on local government operations.
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Enhancing efficiency in public services through Zambia’s GWAN
Local authorities expressed optimism about the GWAN project, highlighting its potential to transform service delivery. Humphrey Makabe, Director of Works at Chinsali Town Council, emphasised the significance of the initiative.
“The arrival of the SMART Zambia team is a milestone for our district,” Mr Makabe said. “We are excited about potential operational improvements and efficiency in services delivered to the community.”
The deployment of GWAN is crucial in improving communication between local government departments, facilitating faster access to information, and providing better internet access for remote areas. This is seen as a key step toward enhancing the efficiency of public services and making government processes more streamlined and accessible to the public.
Site inspections and security measures
Following the discussions, the SMART Zambia team conducted site tours in each district to assess the necessary preparations for the GWAN infrastructure. The visits focused on ensuring that security protocols were in place, which is critical for deploying reliable and secure digital connectivity. These inspections are a vital part of the project, aimed at building a solid foundation for the successful implementation of GWAN in the region.
The GWAN project, spearheaded by the Government of Zambia through SMART Zambia, is designed to modernise the digital infrastructure in local authorities. The initiative aims to enable efficient communication, quicker data transfer and improved service delivery to residents across Muchinga Province by connecting various government offices under a unified network.
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A broader vision for Zambia’s digital transformation
This phase of the GWAN deployment is part of a broader vision by the Zambian government to bridge the digital divide and enhance internet access to underserved regions. By strengthening digital infrastructure in local government offices, the project aligns with the national strategy of creating a more digitally-connected public sector.
SMART Zambia’s efforts reflect the government’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve governance and service delivery. As digital connectivity expands in Muchinga Province, local authorities expect that residents will benefit from faster, more efficient access to government services, thus fostering better community engagement and development.
Local leaders, such as Mr Makabe, see this initiative as pivotal for the region. “The arrival of the SMART Zambia team is a milestone for our district,” Mr Makabe noted, underscoring the enthusiasm shared by other local officials. The introduction of GWAN is anticipated to bring about a more responsive public sector that meets the needs of the people in Muchinga Province.