The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) and the Lusaka Securities Exchange (LuSE) Plc have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening collaboration in investment promotion and facilitation, trade development, and business growth.
The partnership seeks to enhance awareness of capital market opportunities and encourage Zambian businesses to leverage the Lusaka Securities Exchange as a transparent and regulated platform for raising long-term capital. The collaboration will also promote the development of Green Bonds and support listings in high-impact sectors such as agriculture, tourism, mining, and manufacturing, as well as enabling sectors including energy, infrastructure and information and communication technology (ICT).
Speaking during the signing ceremony, ZDA Director General Albert Halwampa said the partnership will strengthen linkages between viable businesses, investment opportunities, and sources of capital, while expanding citizen participation in economic growth.
Mr. Halwampa commended the Government for creating a more predictable and conducive investment environment through private sector-led reforms, successful debt restructuring efforts, strengthened macroeconomic fundamentals, and continued adherence to the rule of law.
He noted that increasing both the number and diversity of companies accessing the capital market would deepen citizen participation in the economy and contribute to the growth, competitiveness, and resilience of the private sector.
“We believe that a stronger capital market, coupled with investment-ready Zambian enterprises, can unlock significant opportunities for economic growth. Our focus is not simply on increasing the number of listed companies, but on creating a stronger ecosystem in which businesses can grow, access capital, and create sustainable employment opportunities,” he said.
Meanwhile, LuSE Chief Executive Officer Nicholas Kabaso described the capital market as an important alternative source of financing for businesses seeking to expand and scale their operations.
He emphasized that the Exchange is more than a marketplace for buying and selling shares.
“Through this partnership, we want more businesses to consider the capital market as part of their growth strategy. A listing provides more than access to capital; it strengthens corporate governance, enhances credibility and visibility, and creates opportunities for sustainable expansion. We also aim to attract more domestic and foreign investment and increase the number of companies listed on the Exchange. Our market has demonstrated its ability to support businesses of significant scale, with four listed companies currently boasting market capitalisations exceeding US$1 billion,” Mr. Kabaso said.
He noted that Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) remain critical drivers of employment, innovation, and economic activity, yet much of their potential remains untapped.
“We must create a pathway from entrepreneurship to investment, from investment to growth, and ultimately from growth to listing. By doing so, we can unlock the full potential of Zambia’s enterprises and create broader opportunities for wealth creation and economic development,” he said.
