Zambia Launches AI for Good Youth Initiative to Drive Digital Innovation
The Ministry of Science and Technology in Zambia in conjunction with E-Mark Zambia and Liquid Intelligent Technologies has been initiated to enable young creatives to use robots and artificial intelligence to solve real-world problems. This project is a component of Zambia's involvement in the United Nations AI for Good titled “Robotics for Good Youth Challenge 2025–2026”, which is scheduled to end later this year at the AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva.
A strategic collaboration has been established by Liquid Intelligent Technologies, E-Mark Zambia, and the Ministry of Technology and Science to carry out this program. It is set to create Zambia as a regional leader in AI-driven solutions, encourage innovation, and give Zambian youth digital skills. With a focus on food security, the 2026 challenge invites participants to create robots and AI systems that attack sustainability and agricultural production.
During the event, Hon. Felix Mutati, MP, Minister of Technology and Science, praised Liquid Intelligent Technologies for its ongoing backing of Zambia's digital transformation, highlighting the company's involvement in providing internet access to over 1,300 schools. He called the program transformative for creativity, education, and the growth of the country.
Additionally, the Minister commended E-Mark Zambia for fostering a culture of purpose-driven innovation and youthful talent. He praised the dedication and tenacity of the young Zambians taking part in the project, especially how they focused on using robots and artificial intelligence to address pressing problems like food security.
Mwendamo Mazaba, the acting CEO of Liquid Intelligent Technologies also announced the company's K250,000 donation and its total commitment to helping Zambia's young innovators by offering technical coaching, capacity-building, and mentorship. Mr. Mwanza, CEO of E-Mark Zambia, emphasized that the program aims to enhance STEM skills and AI and robotics-based solutions among pupils between the ages of 10 and 18.
Before moving on to the international stage scheduled for March 31, 2026, each team will be asked to present solutions at national qualifying competitions in Lusaka. The inventors revealed that the initiative is in line with Zambia's larger AI Strategy for 2026, which places a strong emphasis on workforce development, digital transformation, and international collaboration in emerging technologies.
This innovation shows Africa's growing importance in global technology which might be strengthened if the program is successful in improving the nation's digital pipeline. In addition to that is also encouraging similar youth-focused technological initiatives throughout the whole of Africa.