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proliferation of Multimedia technologies and Internet.
2.4
ICT SECTOR
The ICT sector is represented by a four-tier system, namely policymaking, legal
and regulatory framework, operators and consumers (end users).
Policy Making
The Policy making machinery in the country is an important component shaping the ICT
industry. Given the crosscutting nature of ICT, all line ministries, legislators, traditional
leaders, co-operating partners, public sector, private sector, civil society and individuals
are key stakeholders to the policy making process. However, with respect to the ICT
Portfolio, the Ministry of Communications and Transport is charged with the
responsibility of setting the policy direction for the industry and country at large
taking into account stakeholder views. Therefore, a clear policy framework is the
foundation for the development of ICTs in the country.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The responsibility for development of the legal framework for the sector lies in
the ministry in charge of the ICT portfolio supported by the ministry responsible for the
Justice portfolio and the legislature (Parliament). However, another important
component in the process is the regulatory function in the sector. Currently, the
Communications Authority of Zambia and the Ministry of Information and
Broadcasting Services carry the
regulatory functions in Telecommunications and
Broadcasting sub-sectors respectively. With the enactment of the IBA Act, on
Independent Broadcasting Authority will assume the responsibility of regulating the
broadcasting sub-sector.
Operators
At the operator level, the major players can be classified as follows;
(a)
Telecommunications Services
The telecommunications sub-sector is composed of traditional fixed
telephony and mobile communications based on the Global System for Mobile
(GSM) communication standard. Another category in this area includes Internet
Service Providers. Equipment installation and other services is a small component of
the sub-sector.
(b)
Information Technology
This category comprises businesses involved in office automation and
networking solutions such as supply and installation of computers and
networks, system vending, end user training and distributorship. Over the
years, the number of projects in this category has increased. However, foreign
companies carry much of the substantial works leaving local companies to
provide very limited services to clients.
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