Cape Town, April 30th, 2024 – Zambia’s Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Mutati, reiterated the government’s unwavering support for young entrepreneurs during discussions at the Timbuktoo Retreat Strategy, currently underway at Vergenoegd Low Estate in Cape Town, South Africa.
In his remarks, Hon. Mutati underscored the vital contribution of young entrepreneurs to Zambia’s economic advancement. He highlighted the government’s continuous efforts to equip and empower the youth through resource provision, training, and infrastructure development.
Pointing to the abundance of available land, Hon. Mutati encouraged young Zambians to seize entrepreneurial opportunities, thereby enhancing their income streams and broadening their business prospects.
The Timbuktoo initiative, according to Hon. Mutati, aims to translate innovative concepts into viable enterprises, thereby fueling job creation and bolstering economic expansion.
Advocating for collaborative efforts, the Minister stressed the need for synergy among governments, investors, academia, and the private sector to create a conducive environment for startup ventures.
Underpinning Zambia’s commitment to fostering innovation, Hon. Mutati announced plans, with support from the UNDP, to establish a state-of-the-art Mine Technology hub.
Dr. Joy Kategekwa, Acting Lead for Timbuktoo and Regional Strategy Advisor to the UNDP Africa Regional Director, expressed enthusiasm for Zambia’s active participation in the Timbuktoo Strategy Retreat.