Government has urged small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to take a leading role in local production, job creation and export trade under the Grow Zambia Agenda.

• Permanent Secretary for Special Duties at Cabinet Office, Kennedy Kalunga, said this during the official opening of the inaugural Enterprise and Investment Indaba 2026 at Mulungushi Conference Center.

Mr Kalunga said increased production in agriculture, mining, energy, tourism and manufacturing requires strong local suppliers and service providers.

He said Government remains committed to improving access to finance, digital technology, skills development and markets to support business growth.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development Acting Permanent Secretary Pamela Ngoma said Government is working towards dedicated legislation for micro, small and medium enterprises to strengthen the business environment.

Mrs Ngoma said improved access to finance and markets would help local businesses expand and compete effectively.

The two-day Indaba is being held under the theme, “Empowering Zambian SMEs for Growth: Leveraging Digital Innovation, Finance and Market Access for Competitiveness.”