The Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) joined regional peers from across Eastern and Southern Africa at the 18th UbuntuNet-Connect 2025 Conference, held from 30–31 October 2025 at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC) in Zimbabwe. Hosted by the Zimbabwe Research and Education Network (ZimREN) under the theme “Resilient and Sustainable Research and Education Networks for the Future,” the annual flagship event of the UbuntuNet Alliance brought together policymakers, researchers, technology experts, and academic leaders to deliberate on strategies for strengthening research and education connectivity across Africa. The opening ceremony set a compelling tone for the two-day conference. Hon. Fredrick Shava, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology, delivered the keynote remarks, calling for stronger regional collaboration and sustainable funding mechanisms to ensure the continued growth and resilience of Regional Research and Education Networks (RRENs). His message underscored the critical role of partnerships in building a digitally empowered and interconnected continent. In her welcome address, Ms. Miriam Chahuruva, Chief Executive Officer of ZimREN, highlighted Zimbabwe’s leadership in promoting digital inclusion and connectivity, particularly through women-in-technology empowerment initiatives such as the Women’s Academy. She emphasised the importance of ensuring that technology-driven progress remains inclusive and transformative across all levels of education and research. Adding to the dialogue, Prof. Quinton Kanhukamwe, Vice Chancellor of the Harare Institute of Technology (HIT), shared insights into Zimbabwe’s achievements under the EU-funded AfricaConnect3 project. He stressed that the next phase of regional development must focus on expanding broadband infrastructure and strengthening cybersecurity frameworks to safeguard research data and ensure digital trust within academic ecosystems. Echoing this sentiment, Prof. Hellicy Ngambi, Chairperson of the UbuntuNet Alliance, urged member NRENs to continue enhancing cooperation, energy efficiency, and data-sharing standards. She noted that regional resilience depends not only on infrastructure but also on the collective will to share knowledge and resources for mutual growth. The keynote address by Prof. Arthur Mutambara, a renowned academic and technology expert, drew wide attention as he articulated Africa’s digital imperative, stating that, “Embracing AI is not optional, it is essential for Africa’s survival and progress.” His words resonated strongly with participants, reinforcing the urgency for African institutions to harness artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in advancing research and education. The conference also marked a milestone for the UbuntuNet Alliance as it officially welcomed the Lesotho Research and Education Network (LesREN) as its newest member. This addition expands the Alliance’s community to 16 National Research and Education Networks (NRENs), collectively connecting more than 5 million students across 2,500 institutions in the region. Through its participation, ZAMREN reaffirmed its commitment to regional collaboration, digital transformation, and knowledge sharing. The conference provided a platform for ZAMREN to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships, and contribute to shaping a sustainable digital future for Zambia and the wider research and education community in Africa.