KNCCI Leads Kenyan Delegation in Strengthening Trade Ties with Zambia

The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) has successfully led an 18-member delegation to Zambia in a bid to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties between the two nations. In collaboration with TradeMark Africa, the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), the Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZACCI), and the Lusaka Chamber of Commerce, the KNCCI hosted a high-level conference and business-to-business (B2B) meeting at the Taj Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka.

The event, which brought together over 80 Zambian business leaders and entrepreneurs, marked a significant step toward enhancing economic cooperation. Dr. Erick Rutto, President of the KNCCI, emphasized the opportunities for growth within Kenya’s dynamic trade and investment environment, highlighting the potential for Zambia to tap into the abundant business opportunities across various sectors in Kenya.

Promoting Trade and Investment in Africa

During his keynote address, Dr. Rutto spoke on the critical role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in unlocking intra-Africa trade. He called for increased collaboration between Kenya and Zambia, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and infrastructure, to maximize the benefits of the continent-wide trade agreement.

“Kenya is committed to providing a conducive environment for investment,” said Dr. Rutto. “We invite Zambian businesses to take advantage of Kenya’s position as a regional hub for trade, innovation, and industrialization. The AfCFTA presents an unprecedented opportunity to expand our economic footprint across Africa.”

Zambia’s Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Commerce, Trade, and Industry, Ms. Lillian S. Bwalya, welcomed the Kenyan delegation, underscoring her government’s commitment to strengthening Zambia’s trade relations with Kenya. She also highlighted Zambia’s readiness to engage in collaborative partnerships that can drive mutual economic growth and sustainable development.

“We recognize the immense potential of the partnership between our two nations,” said Ms. Bwalya. “Zambia is committed to fostering a business-friendly environment for Kenyan investors, and we look forward to building on the shared goals outlined at this conference.”

**Significant Agreements and Future Collaborations**

A highlight of the conference was the signing of two important Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs):

KNCCI and ZACCI MOU – The agreement between the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry will promote bilateral trade and investment through closer cooperation at the national level.

KNCCI Nairobi Chapter and Lusaka Chamber of Commerce MOU** – This pact seeks to foster collaboration on city-level initiatives and create opportunities for joint projects between Kenyan and Zambian businesses in Lusaka and Nairobi.

The MOU signings are seen as critical milestones in formalizing and enhancing economic ties between the two nations. The agreements are expected to streamline trade processes, promote cross-border investment, and create long-lasting partnerships in key industries.

B2B Networking and Trade Expo

The conference also featured dynamic B2B sessions, which allowed business leaders from both Kenya and Zambia to network, discuss potential partnerships, and explore avenues for collaboration. Entrepreneurs shared insights into their respective industries and discussed opportunities for joint ventures, partnerships, and direct investment.

Later in the day, the event culminated in a trade expo, where Kenyan businesses showcased their innovations to Zambian investors and entrepreneurs. The expo provided a platform for Kenyan companies to market their products and services, aiming to forge stronger cross-border business relationships.

The success of the conference and expo underscores the growing momentum in Kenya-Zambia trade relations and highlights the significant role of such forums in enhancing economic cooperation across Africa.

Looking Ahead

As Kenya and Zambia look toward the future, both countries are optimistic about the potential for continued growth in trade and investment. The partnership between KNCCI and its Zambian counterparts signals a renewed commitment to fostering deeper economic ties, leveraging the benefits of the AfCFTA, and creating sustainable opportunities for businesses across the continent.

The collaboration is expected to not only enhance trade between Kenya and Zambia but also set a precedent for greater intra-Africa partnerships, driving shared prosperity and long-term development.