Zambia seeks Serbia partnership to close research gaps in energy, agriculture sectors

Zambia has called for closer collaboration with Serbia to help bridge the research and development gap, particularly in the energy and agriculture sectors, where technological advancement was urgently needed.

Technology and Science Minister, Felix Mutati, said Zambia was also interested in working with Serbia to establish an Agricultural Centre of Excellence.

Mutati made the remarks during a meeting with Serbian Ambassador to Zambia, Jasna Zrnovic, in Lusaka on Wednesday, according to a statement issued by Ministry Principal Public Relations Officer Ilitonge Maboshe.

Maboshe said the meeting aimed to deepen cooperation in key sectors that support Zambia’s national development priorities.

During the engagement, Mutati emphasized the importance of enhancing Zambia’s research and development ecosystem.

“The country possesses abundant innovative ideas but requires stronger mechanisms to translate them into commercially viable solutions,” he said.

Mutati said the centre would modernize agricultural practices, build technical capacity, and support technology-driven transformation across the sector.

He also highlighted the significance of scholarship opportunities in specialized energy-related fields, which remain critical to building a technically skilled workforce.

“Serbia’s support in this area will equip Zambians with advanced skills aligned with the country’s evolving energy landscape,” Mutati stated.

Meanwhile, Maboshe said the meeting also reaffirmed the historic friendship between Zambia and Serbia—dating back to the era of President Kenneth Kaunda and President Josip Broz Tito.

She stated that the long-standing relationship had contributed to iconic national infrastructure, including the Kafue Dam and George Hydropower infrastructure.

Additionally, the original Mulungushi International Conference Centre, Findeco House, and the University Teaching Hospital were all developed with Serbian support.

“The Ministry remains committed to strengthening international partnerships that drive innovation, skills development, and socio-economic progress for the benefit of all Zambians,” Maboshe assured.

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