Zambia’s $120m digital upgrade opens door for online gambling surge
World Bank funding for DZAP to transform digital infrastructure and online gambling in Zambia.
Zambia.- Zambia’s $120m total funding to expand digital infrastructure is poised to strengthen the country’s online gambling market. While the funding focuses on broadband expansion, digital services and skills development, it also lays the groundwork for mobile betting, online casinos and digital lottery platforms to reach millions of new users.
The support comes through the Digital Zambia Acceleration Project (DZAP), part of Phase II of the Inclusive Digitalisation in Eastern and Southern Africa Multiphase Programmatic Approach (IDEA MPA). The DZAP project is now taking off with World Bank backing.
The influx of improved connectivity is expected to directly benefit Zambia’s digital economy, including online gambling, by increasing accessibility for players nationwide. Enhanced mobile networks and safer, more reliable platforms will allow operators to reach previously underserved areas, encouraging greater participation in betting, gambling and lottery services.
Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati highlighted the significance of the grant, stating that it is “a major step toward meeting national development goals under the Science, Technology and Innovation Policy and Vision 2030”.
According to We Are Tech Africa, this funding is intended to expand broadband infrastructure, strengthen digital public platforms, and develop employment-ready digital skills across Zambia.”
DZAP aims to extend backbone and regional networks, supply last-mile connectivity, strengthen the enabling environment, develop digital ID and trust services and enhance digital government platforms. The project also invests in digital skills, preparing Zambian youth for roles in fintech, agritech and other emerging sectors.
Betting set to surge
Recent statistics highlight the potential impact of the project. As of early 2025, Zambia had approximately 19.9 million mobile connections, accounting for 92.1 per cent of the population. However, internet penetration stood at only 33 per cent, meaning roughly two-thirds of Zambians remained offline. This underscores the significant potential of DZAP in expanding internet access nationwide.
With improved connectivity, digital governance and mobile payment solutions, millions of Zambians could gain access to digital services, including online gambling, within a safer and more transparent environment.
These investments are expected to open new opportunities for operators, attract investment and make digital gaming more accessible and secure as the country’s digital landscape expands.
