Zamtel and the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) have launched the Zamtel–ZRA 2026 Innovation Challenge, an initiative designed to harness the creativity and technical skills of young Zambians to develop practical solutions to challenges facing public institutions and the country.
The challenge aims to create opportunities for young innovators to turn their ideas into technology-driven solutions that can contribute to national development.
Speaking at the launch, Zamtel Chief Executive Officer Jason Mwanza said the partnership provides a platform for young people to transform their ideas into practical solutions addressing real-world challenges. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between national institutions in creating opportunities for young innovators to participate in the country’s development.
ZRA Commissioner General Dingani Banda, represented at the event by the Authority’s Director of Innovation, Harrison Chapu, emphasised the importance of investing in young talent. He referred to ZRA’s previous hackathon, which attracted more than 270 students from 18 universities. Some participants have since joined the Authority’s innovation initiatives through internship opportunities.
Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati, who attended the launch as Guest of Honour, commended the partnership and linked the initiative to the ambitions of the 2027 Grow Zambia Agenda. The agenda aims to double Zambia’s gross domestic product (GDP) to US$80 billion within five years.
The 2026 Innovation Challenge will focus on four thematic areas: digital innovation, financial inclusion, smart and sustainable solutions, and intelligent digital customer and business ecosystems.
University students participating in the competition will have an opportunity to compete for a grand prize of K100,000.
Through the challenge, Zamtel and ZRA aim to strengthen local innovation, support emerging talent and encourage the development of solutions that address practical challenges in public service delivery and the wider economy.
