By Desmond Nleya, Daily Times Newspaper
ABU DHABI, UAE – June 24, 2026 — Zambia reaffirmed its position as one of Africa’s most promising investment destinations during a high-level investment seminar hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Zambia at the Grand Millennium Hotel Al Wahda in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.
The event brought together business leaders, captains of industry, investors, entrepreneurs, government officials, and representatives from both Zambia and the United Arab Emirates to explore investment opportunities across key sectors of the Zambian economy.
Delivering the keynote address, Zambia’s Ambassador to the UAE, Professor Nkombo-Muuka, highlighted the country’s ambitious economic growth strategy, revealing that Zambia is targeting a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of US$65 billion by 2031.
The ambassador noted that Zambia has recorded some of its lowest inflation levels in recent years, creating a stable and attractive environment for foreign direct investment (FDI). He emphasized that the country’s strategic location in Southern Africa, coupled with investor-friendly policies, has made Zambia one of the continent’s most attractive destinations for international investors.
“Zambia offers enormous opportunities across mining, agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, energy, infrastructure, and technology sectors,” said Professor Nkombo-Muuka. “Our commitment to economic reforms, transparency, and private-sector-led growth continues to attract billions of dollars in investment.”
He revealed that Zambia’s Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework has attracted more than US$19 billion in investments over the past three years, demonstrating growing investor confidence in the country’s economic prospects.
The ambassador also underscored the strategic importance of the UAE as a gateway connecting Africa, Asia, and Europe, noting that strong air connectivity between Lusaka and Dubai has further strengthened trade and investment relations.
“You can have dinner in Lusaka and breakfast in Dubai,” he remarked, highlighting the ease of travel and business engagement between the two countries.
Professor Nkombo-Muuka further credited the economic reforms undertaken under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, including the administration’s firm stance against corruption, which has enhanced investor confidence and strengthened economic governance.
Speaking on Zambia’s Public-Private Partnership framework, Dr. Stephen Chanda, Principal Business Development Officer, outlined the legal and institutional mechanisms that have been established to protect investors and facilitate private sector participation in national development projects.
He explained that Zambia has created a robust regulatory environment designed to ensure transparency, security, and long-term sustainability for both local and international investors.
One of the highlights of the seminar was a presentation by His Royal Highness Emmanuel Kalonga II Sikute, who showcased the Sekute Economic Free Zone, a transformative development project located in Kazungula District.
The free zone, officially inaugurated by President Hichilema on December 14, 2024, is strategically positioned at the intersection of four Southern African nations — Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Namibia.
His Royal Highness described the multi-million-dollar project as a unique investment destination with significant potential in trade, logistics, manufacturing, tourism, and hospitality.
“The Sekute Economic Free Zone is poised to become a major economic and tourism hub for Southern Africa,” he said.
He noted that the project benefits from its proximity to the world-renowned Victoria Falls, national parks, and regional transport corridors, creating opportunities for investors across multiple sectors.
The seminar also featured insights from the private sector, including a presentation by Marina Strateva, Chief Operating Officer of ZAKH Investments UAE, who shared the company’s experience and vision for renewable energy development in Zambia.
She highlighted the growing partnership between ZAKH Investments and the Government of Zambia in advancing solar energy projects aimed at supporting the country’s energy transition and economic development objectives.
The initiative is expected to facilitate foreign direct investment into Zambia’s renewable energy sector, create more than 100 jobs, and strengthen bilateral economic cooperation between Zambia and the United Arab Emirates.
Participants at the seminar praised Zambia’s economic reforms, strategic location, abundant natural resources, and commitment to creating a business-friendly environment.
The event concluded with networking sessions and business-to-business engagements, providing investors with opportunities to explore partnerships and gain deeper insights into Zambia’s rapidly expanding economy.
The event was also attended by Dr. (Hon.) William Stenhouse , a Dubai-based business executive, investor, and networking leader best known as the founder and chairman of the UAE Africa Networking Group, a platform that promotes trade, investment, and business partnerships between the United Arab Emirates and African countries.
