Government says technology should not be viewed as a threat to existing jobs but as an opportunity to create new jobs, improve productivity and generate economic opportunities.
Ministry of Technology and Science Permanent Secretary, Brilliant Habeenzu has further called for increased collaboration among the government, the private sector, financial institutions and academic institutions to support local innovators through financing, mentorship and business development services.
He has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for science, technology and innovation to contribute to national development, job creation and economic growth.
Dr Habeenzu said this in a speech delivered on his behalf by the Ministry’s Assistant Director for ICT and Postal Services, Khumbuzo Nkunika, during the launch of Upezza digital platform in Lusaka today.
He noted that Upezza digital platform helps connect landlords, estate agents and prospective tenants, while providing reliable property information to Zambians living abroad who wish to invest in the country.
Dr Habeenzu noted that applications such as Upezza, demonstrate how local innovation can address real challenges while contributing to the country’s broader economic transformation aspirations.
He also said digital platforms could improve tax compliance in the property sector by promoting transparency among landlords and estate agents.
Meanwhile, Upezza Founder and Director, Nchimunya Ndiili, says the digital platform is aimed at making property discovery easier, faster and more convenient for Zambians seeking accommodation and commercial properties.
Dr Ndiili explained that the application connects property seekers with landlords, property owners, developers and real estate agents through digital technology.
She added that the platform is expected to reduce the time, cost and inconvenience associated with searching for accommodation, as many people spend money travelling from one location to another in search of suitable properties.
Dr Ndiili said Upezza also seeks to address challenges associated with misleading addresses and unverified property listings, which can expose unsuspecting property seekers to exploitation.
She also stated that the application would contribute to economic growth by improving access to property information in both established and emerging economic centres.
Dr Ndiili said the initiative aligns with the government’s development agenda, as economic growth is expected to increase demand for accommodation and commercial properties.
Loading read count...