ITU AI for Good Sandbox Zambia Launches — National Digital Innovation Program for AI Solutions

The ITU AI for Good Sandbox Zambia program launched on April 23, 2026, with a formal kickoff session bringing together representatives from Zambia's Ministry of Technology and Science, E-Mark Zambia, Liquid Intelligent Technologies, and ITU. The AI for Good Sandbox program — active in 27+ countries — provides a structured environment for local innovators, universities, and startups to develop AI solutions for local challenges with access to ITU technical support, mentorship from experienced AI practitioners, and connections to the global AI for Good network. For Zambia, the program builds on the country's existing engagement with the Robotics for Good Youth Challenge 2025-2026 and the development of a national AI strategy focused on AI for job creation and digital economy growth. The Sandbox model allows Zambian AI projects in healthcare, agriculture, and education to test and refine solutions in a supportive environment before scaling, addressing the talent and infrastructure gaps that constrain AI development in sub-Saharan Africa. Zambia's participation signals a broader trend of African nations actively building domestic AI capacity rather than relying solely on imported solutions — with the Sandbox designed to ensure locally developed AI reflects local needs, languages, and contexts. The program positions Zambia to contribute Zambian-built AI projects to the global AI for Good ecosystem and to the July 2026 AI for Good Global Summit.