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President Hakainde Hichilema has officially opened the inaugural Invest Zambia International Conference (IZIC) in Lusaka, underscoring four key parameters for investment with a strong focus on attracting capital that aligns with the country’s growth agenda.
Speaking at the opening ceremony held at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, President Hichilema emphasized the need for fairly priced capital to reduce the cost of doing business, introduce appropriate technology, and boost efficiency and productivity.
The conference aims to showcase Zambia’s vast investment opportunities and facilitate strategic economic deals.
Over 60 exhibitors displayed investment-ready projects across sectors including energy, mining, agriculture, and infrastructure, highlighting Zambia’s ongoing economic transformation.
President Hichilema stressed the value of partnerships with local businesses, encouraging joint ventures that foster shared interests and reduce risks such as expropriation.
“I wish to take this opportunity to announce that Zambia has overtaken Colombia in emerald production, a testament to good policies and increased investment under this government,” he said.
He also projected that Zambia’s copper production would reach one million metric tonnes this year, driven by expanded production capacity, reinvestment by mining companies, and a conducive business environment.
The President underscored the importance of legal and safe mining practices, which include physical safety and environmental stewardship, warning against illegal mining.
“There is a need for formal trade practices to ensure mining contributes to the economy and creates opportunities, with greater participation by Zambians in this sector,” President Hichilema stated.
He highlighted the critical role of energy in meeting growth targets across sectors such as mining, agriculture, and food security.
The President encouraged investors to explore new opportunities created by reforms that allowed independent electricity producers to enter the market.
“The United Capital Fertilizer project is a prime example, already producing locally and expected to create 10,000 jobs upon completion—this is the kind of investment the country needs,” he added.
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He also noted Zambia’s transition from an importer to a prospective net exporter of fertilizer in the region, crediting government policies that prioritize local producers over importers.
He emphasized that the government was committed to supporting partnerships that sustain growth and create jobs for Zambians by preferentially buying from local companies.
Meanwhile, Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) Director-General, Albert Halwampa, praised President Hichilema’s dedication to positioning Zambia as a premier investment destination.
“The President’s support has been pivotal in making IZIC 2025 a reality. ZDA is committed to ensuring the conference is transformative—highlighting Zambia’s investment potential and fostering strategic partnerships, deal signings, and knowledge exchange,” Halwampa said.
Key partners in the event included Wonderful Group of Companies, First Quantum Minerals, the Chinese Business Community, Cybastion, Catoca, Euro Exim Bank, Zanaco, Standard Chartered Bank Zambia, FNB, Industrial Development Corporation, and Barrick Lumwana.
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