Zambia is seeing a growing number of […]

Zambia is seeing a growing number of technology start-ups developing local solutions, but many are struggling to move beyond the early stages because of limited access to funding, business networks and incubation support.

 However, tech expert Ali Kingston Mwila says that while the country has made progress in creating an environment for innovation, more needs to be done to help entrepreneurs turn their ideas into sustainable businesses.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Zambian Business Times-ZBT, Mwila says Zambia’s technology sector has historically relied heavily on solutions developed by foreign companies, particularly in sectors such as banking, mining, agriculture, retail and manufacturing.

 He said this has limited opportunities for local innovators to develop solutions to challenges facing the country, although the situation is gradually changing as more start-ups and technology initiatives emerge.

 Mwila also added that the next challenge is ensuring that these emerging businesses have the support they need to survive and grow. He said access to incubators, angel investors, crowdfunding and other forms of financing will be important in helping start-ups move from experimenting with ideas to building sustainable companies.

 “There should be some policies that will compel and secure the investors, so that people who put money have the confidence that they can fund it and their investments are protected,” Mwila said.

He added that entrepreneurs also need opportunities to connect with experienced business people and investors who can provide both capital and guidance. According to Mwila, many entrepreneurs in Zambia continue to operate their businesses largely on their own, making it difficult for them to access the expertise and resources required to expand.

“Most of the entrepreneurs in Zambia, they are like solo entrepreneurs. They may have one partner, but the company is being operated like a solo entrepreneur,” he said.

Mwila says founders should therefore become more open to bringing in partners and investors who can contribute skills, capital and networks as their businesses grow.

 He says allowing more people to invest in local companies, including through the eventual floating of shares, could also provide businesses with opportunities to raise capital and expand.

 Mwila says Zambia should therefore focus not only on creating more start-ups, but also on building an ecosystem that allows promising businesses to survive, attract investment and scale.

 “It’s a journey, and we need to support the local solutions, homegrown solutions,” he said.

Article by Karen Ngulube