The SMART Zambia Institute, in partnership with Huawei Technologies Zambia Limited, is set to launch a five-day Artificial Intelligence (AI) Empowerment Training Programme aimed at strengthening the capacity of government leaders and technologists to understand, develop and apply AI solutions across the public sector.
Announced in Lusaka on 30 October 2026, the programme will begin on Monday, 2 November, under the theme “Empowering Zambia’s AI Future: From Strategy to Practice.” It will bring together government officials, policymakers, ICT leaders and technical experts for strategic discussions and practical training on the use of AI within public institutions.
The initiative seeks to support Zambia’s digital transformation agenda by equipping public-sector professionals with knowledge and skills to use AI in modernising public administration, improving institutional efficiency, strengthening data-driven decision-making and enhancing public service delivery.
The training will cover several areas of artificial intelligence, including national AI strategy, large language models, AI-powered data centres, prompt engineering, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) and AI agents. Participants will explore technical concepts and practical applications, with a focus on how emerging technologies can address real-world challenges within government institutions.
Huawei will provide the training free of charge, with experienced AI specialists travelling from China to deliver the sessions in person. The official opening ceremony is expected to bring together representatives from SMART Zambia Institute and participating government institutions, the Chairman of Huawei’s Southern African Multi-Country Board, and a representative of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Zambia.
Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Yang Hebin, Chairman of Huawei’s Southern African Multi-Country Board, said artificial intelligence offers significant opportunities to strengthen public institutions and accelerate digital transformation. He added that Huawei intends to share practical expertise to help public-sector professionals turn technological innovation into meaningful outcomes for citizens.
The partnership also highlights the role of collaboration between government, technology companies and international partners in developing local digital capabilities. Huawei said the programme forms part of its contribution to supporting the adoption of emerging technologies across government institutions.
SMART Zambia Institute, also known as the Electronic Government Division, operates under the Office of the President. It is responsible for promoting and managing electronic government services, facilitating public access to digital services, and coordinating e-government and ICT matters across public institutions.
The Government of Zambia, through SMART Zambia Institute, reaffirmed its commitment to working with Huawei and other partners in areas including connectivity, digital infrastructure, skills development and technological innovation to support national development.
