Weak governance undermining Africa’s progress —Silumbe

Zambian Research and Development Centre (ZRDC) Chairperson, Dr. Richard Silumbe, has raised concern over weak governance systems and delayed reforms, which he said continued to undermine democracy and development across many African countries.

Speaking at the International Multi-Disciplinary Conference (IMDC) 2025 held at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, Silumbe challenged African nations to take responsibility for their natural resources and determine their own economic development paths.

The conference brought together local and international innovators, entrepreneurs and engineers to explore practical solutions for Zambia and the African continent.

Silumbe said the gathering symbolised a growing African awakening and a renewed determination to claim a rightful place on the global stage.

“Africa should no longer accept the outdated label of a ‘dark continent,’” he said, citing countries such as Burkina Faso and Zimbabwe which, he noted, have embraced self-reliance and the use of local resources to drive national development.

He said such examples demonstrated that Africa had the capacity to chart its own future without excessive dependence on external actors.

Silumbe further noted that the continent was richly endowed with strategic minerals such as copper, lithium, gold and diamonds, which could transform Africa’s energy and industrial sectors if properly managed.

“I want to ask you this question, who is who truly benefits from these resources. The continued exploitation without value addition is depriving future generations of lasting benefits,” he said.

He also condemned corruption, describing it as a major obstacle that continued to drain African economies and weaken public trust in institutions.

Meanwhile, Russian Federation Head of International Development for Russia–Africa and State Duma expert, Dr. Inga Koryagina, urged Zambia and the continent to move beyond rhetoric and adopt action-oriented solutions.

“Critical thinking, adaptability and practical implementation are key pillars for meaningful development,” Koryagina said, warning that failure to act would leave Africa stagnant.

ZRDC Director, Dr. Chishala Bwalya, claimed that the centre had so far empowered more than 13,500 students in research and engineering disciplines, describing them as future innovators expected to shape Africa’s development trajectory.

“The conference was designed to turn ideas into reality and inspire Africans to stand up, innovate and take charge of their development journey,” Bwalya said.

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