The CAZ last year gave a go-ahead to the disbursement of the rural telecommunication fund amounting to nearly US$4 million for the development of rural telecom infrastructure after the Zambian government pressed for the quick release of the funds.

Initially CAZ said it could not disburse the funds because administrative procedures, including the appointment of a projects manager, had to be accomplished prior to the distribution.

In addition to the $4 million, the Zambian government in its 2008 national budget set aside almost $1 million for rural infrastructure development and access to ICT by the rural population.