Private Sector is fuel that drives the economy— Kambobe

LUSAKA – The Public Private Dialogue Forum (PPD) today inaugurated its Mid-Year Private Sector Day, a crucial initiative aimed at galvanizing private sector growth and accelerating economic development across Zambia. The event, which is slated to run until June 12, 2026, signals a sustained commitment to fostering collaboration between the government and private enterprises, recognizing the latter as the indispensable engine of national prosperity. Officiating at the launch, Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Hon. Chipoka Mulenga, reiterated the New Dawn government's unwavering dedication to creating a conducive business environment. He emphasized that the private sector is not merely a partner but the primary catalyst for job creation, innovation, and wealth generation. "Our role as government is to listen, facilitate, and remove bottlenecks that hinder the growth of our local businesses, both large and small," Minister Mulenga stated, highlighting the importance of policy consistency and regulatory predictability. Dr. Fredrick Kambobe, Chairperson of the Public Private Dialogue Forum, echoed these sentiments, asserting that the private sector is indeed the "fuel that drives the economy." Dr. Kambobe stressed the need for continuous dialogue to identify challenges such as access to finance, market linkages, and skilled labour, and to collectively devise sustainable solutions. He noted that the Mid-Year Private Sector Day provides a vital platform for stakeholders to engage constructively, share insights, and forge partnerships that will translate into tangible economic benefits for all Zambians. The discussions during this multi-day event are expected to delve into various thematic areas critical to Zambia's economic diversification agenda. These include enhancing local content in supply chains, promoting value addition in key sectors like agriculture and mining, and leveraging technology for increased productivity and competitiveness. Participants, drawn