Zambia has launched the fifth edition of the Pachipanda Innovation Challenge, calling on young innovators to develop technology-based solutions for environmental challenges and the country’s emerging green economy.

The initiative was launched in Lusaka by MTN Zambia and the National Technology Business Centre (NTBC), in partnership with government and conservation agencies. This year’s theme, “Nature Meets Innovation: Unlocking Zambia’s Green Economy,” places emphasis on practical ideas that can support productivity and sustainability.

The challenge aims to widen access to training, mentorship and market opportunities, helping young people develop and potentially commercialise climate-smart innovations. At the launch, Ministry of Technology and Science Permanent Secretary Brilliant Habeenzu said science, technology and innovation can help improve productivity, add value to local resources and support cleaner energy.

MTN Zambia said the programme is intended to help young innovators test, develop and scale ideas into viable businesses. The latest edition builds on the challenge, which began in Zambia in 2022 and later expanded across the continent.