The 2025 National Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Conference opened yesterday at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre with government and academic leaders warning that Zambia must significantly increase investment in Research and Development (R&D) to build a resilient, competitive economy.
Held under the theme “Harnessing Science, Technology and Innovation for a Resilient Zambia,” the conference highlighted that the country invests less than 0.3% of its GDP in research far below the African average and global benchmarks.
Minister of Technology and Science Hon. Felix Mutati called innovation the “engine that transforms ideas into practical solutions,” stressing that Zambia cannot tackle climate change, food insecurity, and energy challenges without strong scientific capacity.
The Minister outlined a five-point plan to strengthen the national STI framework, including better coordination among institutions, improved access to research infrastructure, increased investment in STEM education, a mission-oriented research agenda focused on agriculture and energy, and stronger research ethics to attract partnerships.
National Science and Technology Council Chairperson Prof. Sody Munsaka reinforced the need for higher R&D spending, saying Zambia must invest more in the minds that will generate solutions.
Permanent Secretary Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu noted that with over 70% of global economic growth driven by innovation, Zambia must ensure every kwacha spent on research delivers value.
The University of Zambia also announced progress on its Digital Next Generation Innovation Hub, which will include an Artificial Intelligence unit to support research commercialisation and technology development.
The three-day conference continues with expert panels and exhibitions focused on strengthening Zambia’s scientific capacity and accelerating innovation-led growth.
