By Derrick Silimina

Government has reaffirmed its efforts to enhance business resilience through innovation and sustainable practices amidst ongoing economic challenges, particularly those related to energy deficits.

Speaking on behalf of President Hakainde Hichilema when he officially graced this years’ 59th Zambia International Trade Fair in Ndola held under the theme; “Enhancing business resilience through innovation and trade,” Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane commended individual companies for adopting renewable energy solutions, which bolster their resilience and contribute to national economic stability.

“Whilst many of you have been vigorously responding to the different challenges facing your establishments, the government has not sat back. It, too, has been working hard to improve national resilience,” Hichilema said.

The head of state outlined that government’s focus on resilience is also evident in the revival of mining activities in key regions such as Kitwe, Mufulira, Chililabombwe, Luanshya, Lubambe, and Kalengwa, with initiatives like the Lobito railway project playing a pivotal role in creating a conducive environment for increased copper production and employment.

Furthermore, First Quantum Minerals (FQM) reaffirmed its commitment to local content and capacity building within Zambia’s mining industry.

FQM’s Country Manager Godwin Beene, emphasized the importance of local sourcing, aligning with government policies and Zambia’s Vision 2030 and he highlighted that investing in local capacity is not only sound policy but also good business, and that the mining giant will continue fostering partnerships for sustainable and inclusive growth.

“We believe in Zambians supplying Zambian mines, and we are investing in making that a reality. Building local capacity is not just good policy – it is good business,” Dr. Beene said during an FQM sponsored luncheon at the 2025 ZITF.

The 2025 edition of the ZITF currently underway from 2 – 8 July, ZITF serves as a platform to showcase Zambia’s economic potential, attract investment, foster strategic partnerships across sectors, with participating SMEs and partners expressing optimism about Zambia’s future development trajectory and their role in driving lasting change.