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The United Kingdom’s Minister for Africa, Lord Collins of Highbury, is visiting Zambia as part of efforts to strengthen cooperation between the two countries.
During his visit, Lord Collins will hold meetings with senior members of the Zambian Government to enhance collaboration in key areas including economic growth, investment, renewable energy, and poverty reduction.
A central focus of the visit would be reaffirming the UK’s commitment to the UK-Zambia Green Growth Compact — a flagship agreement aimed at mobilising £2.5 billion in UK private investment into Zambia.
The initiative seeks to support job creation, economic development, and sustainable growth in both countries.
The Compact was initially signed in 2021 and reaffirmed by then UK Development Minister Anneliese Dodds in December 2024.
In a move to further boost trade relations, the UK recently appointed Calvin Bailey, who had Zambian heritage, as its new trade envoy to Zambia.
His appointment reflects the growing ambition on both sides to expand trade and investment partnerships.
As part of his programme, Lord Collins would visit Zambia Sugar — owned by Associated British Foods — and Kaonga Mini Hospital, both standout examples of responsible UK investment contributing to inclusive economic growth and improved public services.
The hospital is part of a landmark project, supported by UK Export Finance, which has delivered five district hospitals and 111 mini-hospitals across Zambia, constructed by UK firm NMS International.
Zambia’s abundant natural resources position the country as a key player in the global clean energy transition.
The visit follows closely on the heels of Zambian Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote’s participation in the International Summit on the Future of Energy Security, held recently in London. Subsequently, Zambia received an invitation from the UK Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, to join the UK-led Global Clean Power Alliance — a G20 initiative bringing together countries from the Global North and South to accelerate the transition to clean energy.
Lord Collins is also expected to meet nutrition experts to gain insights into the challenges of tackling malnutrition and explore areas where the UK can provide support, in addition to engaging with leaders from Zambian civil society.
Commenting on the visit, British High Commissioner to Zambia, Rebecca Terzeon, said: “We are honoured to welcome Lord Collins during this solemn time. His visit is a testament to the enduring strength of the UK-Zambia partnership and our shared commitment to a prosperous, sustainable future.”
Lord Collins’s visit underscores the UK’s longstanding ties with Zambia and its commitment to deepening this valued and forward-looking partnership.
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