Click Here & Upgrade PDF Complete Expanded Features Unlimited Pages Documents c) Ensuring the provision of a wide range of ICT services to stimulate and support sustainable social and economic development; d) Stimulating investment, innovation, and a level playing field where competitive entry is permitted in the ICT sector; e) Protecting the interests of ICT users and consumers; f) Effective management of common national scarce resources, such as the radio frequency spectrum, numbering plan and Internet Governance in Zambia; g) Actively participate in the management, and developments in national, regional and international standards; and h) Promoting public confidence in the ICT market by establishing transparent regulatory, licensing and operational policies and guidelines including tariffs, interconnection agreements, dispute resolution and consume rights/obligations. 7.7 PRIVATE SECTOR The private sector as a key partner to Government is recognised as having a critical role in the process of developing Zambia s information society and economy. The private sector is expected among other things: to serve as the key driver for the development of the Zambian economy by providing domestic and foreign investments in ICT services and infrastructure development; and facilitate the mobilisation of funding/ investments to implement ICT initiatives outlined in this policy. Other roles envisaged for the private sector include: a) b) c) d) e) f) g) Working closely with the Department of Communications to develop implementation plans and strategies for private sector and civil society participation in the policy implementation process; Supporting and participating in innovative and productive ways of establishing a competitive local ICT industry so as to guarantee Zambia s effective participation in the global economy; Taking advantage of business opportunities resulting from the implementation of information society initiatives at SADC, COMESA, NEPAD, and WSIS levels; Supporting the development of the nation s human resources including promoting private sector investment in education as well as in R&D; Developing local capability for manufacturing of ICT products; and creating innovative services for local and export markets; Investing in ICT projects for rural and underserved urban areas as well as traditionally disadvantaged areas; Active participation in policy formulation, implementation and review process on an on- going basis. 60