Gateways, being by nature specialized information catalogues, require the collaboration of all specialized agencies in Zambia. One identified difficulty that will impact the start of the proposed information Gateways is the low level of national information infrastructure and under utilization of ICT's as tools for development in Zambia. In order to marshal the support of every collaborating institution, it's therefore important that a symposium of this nature is called to discuss modalities, standards and management of sustainable information gateways. We believe, as initiators of this programme, that, Government will only give consent and approval after stakeholders have shown keen interest, and modalities have been worked out and finalized. However, Government of the Republic of Zambia has shown its willingness to develop the information sector through the new National Information Policy about to be put in place.
Information plays a crucial role in the development of any nation.
The proposed gateways will play a significant role in the socio - economic development of Zambia. To develop and provide specialized information services that will enhance socio- economic development and community participation in Zambia. What Zambia needs is to have in place relevant national as well as sectoral information networks that will optimize acquisition, storage and access to locally and regionally available information. What is particularly missing is the coordination of these developments at national level since there is no facility or infrastructure to support its establishment. Although this symposium is solely organised to address information needs of Zambia, the Committee felt duty bound to learn what our neighbours are doing in this area.