Zamtel and ZRA Launch 2026 Innovation Challenge for Zambian Students

Zamtel  and the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA)  have launched the Zamtel–ZRA 2026 Innovation Challenge, an initiative aimed at harnessing the creativity and technical skills of young Zambians to develop practical solutions to challenges facing public institutions and the country.

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 that address real-world challenges. He highlighted the role of collaboration between national institutions in creating opportunities for young innovators to contribute to the country’s development.

The ZRA Commissioner General, Dingani Banda, represented at the event by the Authority’s Director of Innovation, Harrison Chapu, highlighted the importance of investing in young innovators. He cited ZRA’s previous hackathon, which attracted more than 270 students from 18 universities, noting that some participants have since joined the Authority’s innovation initiatives through internship opportunities.

The Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, who attended as Guest of Honour, commended the partnership and linked its objectives to the ambitions of the 2027 Grow Zambia Agenda. The agenda seeks 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 the opportunity to compete for a grand prize of K100,000.

Through the initiative, Zamtel and ZRA aim to support local talent, encourage the development of technology-driven solutions and create opportunities for young Zambians to contribute to national innovation and development.