// The Institute
The E-Africa Research Institute for Technology and Economics (ERITE) is a nonprofit research institute headquartered in Lusaka, Zambia — researching the critical interlinks between technology and economics, and translating data-driven insights into actionable policies and market solutions across the SADC region.
Our Story
ERITE is a Zambian-registered nonprofit founded in 2023 to pioneer solutions at the nexus of technology and economics. Building on the decade-long legacy of our sister organization, the Institute for Finance and Economics (IFE Zambia), ERITE takes a holistic approach to sustainable development.
IFE Zambia was established in 2011 by former Bank of Zambia Governor Dr. Caleb Fundanga to promote the growth of Africa's financial sector, with a principal focus on financial inclusiveness. By combining high-level policy analysis with active commercial execution, ERITE bridges the critical gap between visionary policy and tangible, real-world results.
2011
Dr. Caleb Fundanga establishes the Institute for Finance and Economics to champion financial inclusion across Africa.
2018
The Zambia E-Commerce Expo & Conference launches — the seed of what becomes the eAfrica Expo, now Africa's first-page Google-ranked e-commerce and digital commerce event.
2021
IFE Zambia and the SMART Zambia Institute create the e-Ndaba platform for grassroots-to-regulator policy dialogue.
2023
A dedicated think tank and implementation platform is born — inheriting the Expo, the Awards, and the mission.
2024 →
A payment-systems modernization and merchant digitization program tabled with key institutions, including the Bank of Zambia.
Leadership
Board Chair
Former Governor of the Bank of Zambia. Anchors the institute in the highest levels of macroeconomic credibility and policy access across the region.
Chief Executive Officer
Strategist with 15+ years in digital financial services across SADC — deep expertise in economics, policy and corporate planning.
Zambian-Led · Research & Implementation
Economists, technologists and policy analysts — a locally rooted team combining rigorous research with hands-on market-building experience.
Threefold Mission
Locally relevant evidence on the intersection of technology, institutional policy and economic outcomes.
Conferences, incubation pipelines, B2B matchmaking and roundtables connecting business, innovators and regulators.
Targeted incubation, mentorship and market-access programs for women and youth across the region.
From central bank advisory to grassroots incubation — ERITE bridges policy intention and real-world impact.