Supporting the Digitalisation of the Local Economy in Zambia
In collaboration with UN agency Intracen (ITC), EdgeEDD is delivering digital content designed by the ITC and aimed at helping micro-business owners digitalise their operations, thereby supporting the digitalization of the local economy. The content we provide assists market stall owners in Lusaka with various digital tools, such as listing their shops on Google Maps, advertising their services on Facebook, and using free accounting apps to improve their financial outcomes, among many other capabilities
Stories at the Edge of the Internet
These stories illustrate how EDDs distribution of instructional videos have empowered diverse SMEs to overcome barriers, expand their reach, and achieve significant growth in their sales and business operations. By equipping entrepreneurs with essential digital skills, EdgeEDD has played a pivotal role in transforming their ventures and unlocking new opportunities in a competitive marketplace.
Each of these stories demonstrates how EDDs services have empowered small business owners to overcome challenges, leading to significant growth and success in their respective ventures.
Enhanced Financial Inclusion
Mrs. Ngulale is an advocate for women's empowerment and urges her peers to embrace EDD for its transformative content. She herself has benefitted from the platform, learning new skills such as as sewing and selling shoes in order to support herself financially. She finds immense joy in the fact that EDD service is accessible to all without any cost, making it a valuable resource for women seeking to improve their lives and livelihoods.
Better Access to Education and Skills Development
A group of aspiring entrepreneurs gathers around a smartphone to watch business tutorials on the EDD's platform. Among them is Daniel, a 30-year-old street vendor, who credits the app with enhancing his business acumen. Influenced by the marketing strategies and financial management tips featured in the videos, Daniel has revitalised his street business. This has attracted a steady stream of customers and increased his profits. His entrepreneurial spirit not only propels his own success but also inspires fellow vendors to adopt innovative approaches in the competitive market.
Digitalising the local Economy
Through this collaboration, EdgeEDD and Intracen are helping to Digitalised the local economy in Zambia. Here are some key reasons why digitalisation is vital for Zambia's local economy:
Enhanced Financial Inclusion
- Access to Financial Services: Digitalisation enables more people to access financial services through mobile banking, digital wallets, and online banking. This inclusion helps individuals and small businesses to save, invest, and secure loans, which can spur economic activity.
- Reduction in Unbanked Population: Many Zambians do not have access to traditional banking services. Digital platforms can provide these services, allowing more people to participate in the formal economy.
Improved Efficiency and Productivity
- Streamlined Business Operations: Digital tools can help businesses automate processes, reduce paperwork, and streamline operations, leading to increased efficiency and reduced costs.
Economic Growth and Job Creation
New Market Opportunities: Digitalisation opens up new markets and opportunities for businesses, allowing them to reach a broader customer base both locally and internationally. This can lead to the growth of existing businesses and the creation of new ones.
Support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
- Access to Digital Platforms: SMEs can benefit from digital platforms that allow them to market their products and services online, access new customer bases, and compete more effectively with larger companies.
- E-commerce: Digitalization enables the growth of e-commerce, providing SMEs with a cost-effective way to sell goods and services, thereby boosting their sales and revenue.
Better Access to Education and Skills Development
- Online Learning: Digitalization facilitates access to online education and training programs, enabling people to acquire new skills and knowledge. This is particularly important for youth and those looking to improve their employability.
- Digital Literacy: Promoting digital literacy can help individuals better utilize digital tools and platforms, enhancing their productivity and contributing to the overall digital economy
Improved Healthcare Services
Telemedicine: Digital health platforms can improve access to healthcare services, especially in remote areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with healthcare providers without the need to travel long distances.
“We are delighted with the Edd service, it is a great way to distribute useful content across low income areas.”
Annabel Sykes - UN digital transformation Expert
Get in touch
©Copyright. All rights reserved.
We need your consent to load the translations
We use a third-party service to translate the website content that may collect data about your activity. Please review the details in the privacy policy and accept the service to view the translations.