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Ecobank has pledged its support toward the development of smart transport corridors across Africa, with a focus on enhancing intra-African trade and advancing the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka on Tuesday, Fabiano Zulu, the bank’s Head of Trade Finance, emphasized the crucial role that efficient transport systems play in facilitating the movement of goods—particularly copper and agricultural commodities—within the continent.
“As a financial institution, we understand that streamlined logistics and modern transport networks can significantly reduce trade costs and improve the speed and safety of goods movement between African countries like Zambia,” Zulu said.
He noted that investments in road, rail, and port infrastructure would enhance the quality and reliability of transport, while also minimizing risks such as accidents and cargo damage.
Zulu said the bank has been actively engaging with transporters and other key stakeholders to identify areas of support and investment that would help drive the development of smart corridors and unlock trade opportunities across the region.
In line with AfCFTA’s trade facilitation agenda, Ecobank has also launched the Single Market Trade Hub, a digital platform aimed at enabling Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), transporters, and service providers to access broader markets with reduced trade barriers.
“The platform is designed to simplify processes, making it easier for SMEs to export goods, expand into new markets, and increase their revenue potential,” Zulu said.
He added that improving the efficiency and reliability of Africa’s transportation networks would not only benefit businesses and logistics operators but also strengthen the financial sector and drive broader economic development.
Zulu further highlighted the AfCFTA’s role in accelerating trade and investment across Africa, noting that initiatives like smart corridors could support Zambian SMEs in reaching key regional markets such as Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
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