• The spectrum is expected to result in high speed internet.
• There is need for practical conversations on how to tackle and reduce the cost of doing business.
• Our shared vision is that we must create customer happiness.

Technology and Science Minister has launched the 800MHZ and 2,600MHZ bands radio spectrum auction by ZICTA that will be key to expanding service delivery and stimulate capacity expansion and upgrade of wireless broadband networks and services.

Speaking during the Launch, Friday, Felix Mutati said the spectrum is expected to result in high speed internet, create new opportunities, value added services for Small and Medium Enterprises and create the much desired new jobs.

Mr. Mutati further noted while government is mindful that the spectrum will enhance quality of service and elevate technologies, there is need for practical conversations on how to tackle and reduce the cost of doing business thereby creating citizen happiness.

He explained it is government’s shared vision on the need to create customer happiness through affordability of service provision by operators.

“In addressing the issue of reducing the cost of doing business for the sector which will terminate issues of affordability to the customer, we must face the issue and one of the things we have to do together is the need to accelerate our effort collectively to inter-operate,” The Minister said

He explained that this would reduce transaction costs across the economy.
“Our shared vision is that we must create customer happiness and the only way to do that is affordability, by lowering the cost” Mr Mutati said.

Mr. Mutati also said the recently launched Public Private Dialogue Forum by President Hakainde Hichilema encompasses technology and science, hence the need for round table discussions with sector players to address elements creating irritation and costs in the sector, thereby slowing down the journey to digitize the country’s economy.

He indicated there is need to explore immediate and urgent impact interventions adding that with the launched spectrum auction, investments will be rolled into digital infrastructure that will accelerate attainment of 98 percent population coverage by 2026 through collaboration with industry players.

Meanwhile, Mr. Mutati said there is need to accelerate efforts to deliver a digital identity for all citizens which will reduce cost across all sectors and also reduce fraud among other vices by up to 15 percent.

The Technology and Science Minister had since stated that sector players must appreciate the new government because it listens to concerns as it has a desire and motivation to see such businesses prosper.