Enhancing regional cooperation improves connectivity among African nations. This connectivity is crucial for economic development, as it promotes trade, communication, and access to information. Through such partnerships, African countries can utilize collective resources to drive economic growth.
Zambia has ratified the Constitution and Convention of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU), reaffirming its commitment to advancing telecommunications and ICT development in Africa. The ratification instruments were submitted at the ATU headquarters in Nairobi, Kenya, on July 26 and were received by ATU Secretary General John Omo.
Alfred Musemuna, Zambia's Charge d'Affaires in Kenya, delivered the instruments on behalf of the Minister of Science and Technology, Felix Mutati. Musemuna conveyed Mutati's message, highlighting Zambia's commitment to regional cooperation and connectivity. "Zambia acknowledges the pivotal role of the ATU in enhancing connectivity for the benefit of all African nations. We are eager to contribute to the Union’s objectives of a digitally inclusive Africa," said Mutati.
Countries that ratify the ATU's foundational instruments gain various benefits, including full participation in Union activities, voting rights, eligibility for elections within the Union's Permanent Organs, and the ability to nominate candidates for elective positions.
“The ATU is the premier continental organization promoting the development of ICT infrastructure and services.” With Zambia's ratification, 32 out of 52 African countries represented by ATU have now ratified or acceded to the Union's Constitution and Convention, initially signed by ATU Member States in 1999 and revised in 2014.
This action emphasizes Zambia's dedication to technological advancement and regional integration through active participation in international forums. As a member of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Zambia participates in the Regional Standardization Forum for Africa. The country has also adopted several ITU conventions and guidelines, such as the Guidelines on Child Online Protection, which have been localized and implemented by the Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority, as outlined in the National ICT Policy 2023 Republic of Zambia Implementation Plan 2022 - 2026.
