A delegation of Tanzanian investors is in Zambia to explore investment opportunities in strategic sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, transport, and logistics, industries regarded as critical drivers of employment creation, industrialisation, food security, economic growth, and regional trade.

Speaking during the Tanzania-Zambia Business Forum organised by the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry Permanent Secretary in charge of Commerce and Trade Lilian Bwalya said the forum reflects the two countries’ shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding commercial cooperation.

In remarks delivered on her behalf by Director of Industry Sichizuwe Musokotwane, Ms Bwalya described the forum as an important platform for fostering stronger economic ties between Zambia and Tanzania.

Ms Bwalya urged businesses from both countries to move beyond dialogue and pursue tangible partnerships capable of accelerating economic growth and industrialisation.

“We are particularly honoured to receive this distinguished business delegation from Tanzania, led by the Chairperson of the Tanzania Women Chamber of Commerce (TWCC). The Chamber has played a significant role in promoting entrepreneurship, facilitating market access, advocating for business-friendly policies, and empowering enterprises to participate meaningfully in national, regional, and international trade,” she said.

She noted that the forum had been deliberately structured to focus on direct Business-to-Business (B2B) engagements aimed at enabling companies to identify immediate trade opportunities, establish long-term strategic partnerships, and explore mutually beneficial investment ventures.

Meanwhile, ZDA Director General Albert Halwampa said there is significant potential to expand trade and investment flows between Zambia and Tanzania.

Mr Halwampa expressed confidence that enhanced collaboration between businesses from the two countries would contribute to increased trade volumes and support Africa’s broader integration agenda under the AfCFTA.

He said forums such as the Tanzania-Zambia Business Forum provide a vital platform for strengthening commercial partnerships and unlocking new opportunities for economic growth and prosperity in both nations.

Earlier, Tanzania Women Chamber of Commerce representative Anaty Kombesen said the forum presents an opportunity for Zambia and Tanzania to build a modern, forward-looking partnership anchored on commerce, investment, innovation, and enterprise development.

Ms Kombesen highlighted the Chamber’s role in advancing inclusive economic empowerment through targeted training, mentorship, and capacity-building programmes.

“Through targeted training, mentorship and capacity-building programmes, we equip young people with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to become successful entrepreneurs and responsible leaders,” she said.

At the same event, Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZACCI) President Antony Kabaghe called for the establishment of practical and impactful trade frameworks that translate discussions into measurable economic outcomes.

In a speech delivered on his behalf by Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Mumba, Mr Kabaghe said Zambia and Tanzania are committed to leveraging opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to deepen regional trade and economic integration.

He stressed that the private sector must take a leading role in advocating for policies and initiatives that strengthen trade relations and improve the business environment.