President Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for investment by focusing on key parameters including capital, technology and value addition.
Speaking during the official opening of the Invest Zambia International Conference 2025 in Lusaka today, President Hichilema emphasized that government is actively seeking capital to boost business activity and reduce operational costs across sectors.
He called on both local and foreign investors to bring in “fairly priced capital,” warning that expensive financing continues to be a major obstacle for entrepreneurs and industries in Zambia.
“We are working to unlock capital, but we ask our partners especially the investors, to bring capital that is fairly priced to lower the cost of doing business and make Zambia competitive,” said President Hichilema.
President Hichilema also stressed the need for appropriate and modern technology, to improve efficiency and productivity across the board.
He emphasized the role of diplomacy in investment, urging Zambia’s High Commissioners and ambassadors to actively serve as economic envoys and facilitators of trade and investment opportunities.
“You are not just there to drink tea in your offices, you are positioned to bring investment into the country. That is part of your job go out and attract investors,” said President Hichilema.
The President’s remarks come amid heightened efforts by the Zambian government to attract foreign direct investment and revive key sectors such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and renewable energy.
Meanwhile, Mr. Hichilema has reiterated government’s stance against illegal mining, affirming that licenses a number of licenses have been given to Zambians to engage in formal trade.
By Margaret Mwanza
