Zambia Prepares for Indaba to Boost MSMEs and Co-operatives

Zambia is preparing to host its inaugural National Indaba for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and Cooperatives. Scheduled for April 10 and 11 at the Mulungushi International Conference Center. The event aims to foster collaboration and drive growth within the sector.

Subeta Mutelo, the permanent secretary for MSMEs, said that the indaba will see participation from over 700 attendees globally, including representatives from Botswana, India, and Kenya.

Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Elias Mubanga, echoed the importance of the Indaba, stating that it “is one of the proposed initiatives to foster collaboration among stakeholders. One of the factors hindering the growth of MSMEs and cooperatives is lack of collaboration among stakeholders in the ecosystem.”

The event will feature a broad conference programme, comprising exhibitions, business clinics, and panel discussions, with speakers expected from countries including India, Botswana, and South Africa.

Mubanga highlighted the pivotal role of MSMEs and cooperatives in Zambia's economic landscape, saying "The Zambian government sees MSMEs and cooperatives as critical drivers of economic development and job creation. They account for about 97% of all businesses in Zambia, 70% of GDP, 80% of employment.”

The revised MSME Policy was launched in December 2023, aiming to foster collaboration and innovation within the MSME and co-operative sector. The event's connection to the updated policy highlights its importance in supporting the government's goals.

Several companies, including Zamtel and Zambia Industrial Commercial Bank, have pledged financial and technical support for the event. "The door is still open for anyone to come on board to provide financial and technical support in making the event a success,” said Mubanga.

Registration for the Indaba is now open, with the government encouraging active participation from MSMEs, cooperatives, and stakeholders to use the opportunity to drive forward collaboration and growth within the sector.