Zambia has positioned itself at the heart of Africa’s growing creative economy as it hosts the 2026 Creative Industries Business Summit (CIBS), Africa Creative Market (ACM), and the Kwimbo National Arts Festival, bringing together filmmakers, musicians, fashion designers, investors, policymakers and creatives from across the continent.

Officially opening the five-day summit at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, Kangwa Chileshe said Government has made significant progress in transforming the creative sector into a key contributor to Zambia’s economy.

He highlighted major reforms implemented over the past five years, including the establishment of Arts as a department within the Ministry, the launch of Zambia’s first National Arts Policy, the review of the National Film Policy, reforms to outdated legislation, the removal of import duty on film and music production equipment, and Zambia’s accession to the ATA Carnet system to facilitate the movement of creative equipment across borders.

Mr. Chileshe further revealed that more than 3,000 creatives have been trained in financial literacy and business development, while over 2,000 artists have been enrolled on a social security scheme providing pensions, maternity benefits, funeral support and access to credit facilities.

He added that Government’s next priority is to strengthen digital platforms, improve monetisation opportunities, enhance skills development and expand market access for Zambia’s creative industry.

The Permanent Secretary also noted that Zambia’s participation at this year’s Cannes Film Festival has opened new opportunities for international partnerships, with plans already underway to establish a Zambian Pavilion at the 2027 Cannes Film Festival.

Africa Creative Market Founder Dr. Inya Lawal urged African nations to build a creative economy driven by intellectual property, innovation and cross-border collaboration, saying the continent’s creative industries have the potential to generate billions of dollars and create millions of jobs.

Speaking at the event, Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to Zambia Chinyere Epelle described the creative economy as one of Africa’s greatest untapped opportunities, while UNDP Resident Representative Dr. James Wakiaga called for increased investment in young creatives through improved access to finance, technology and innovation.

National Arts Council Board Chairperson Lupoto Lilanda said Zambia had made history by becoming the first Southern African country to host the Africa Creative Market, describing the summit as a catalyst for transforming creativity into sustainable enterprise.

Meanwhile, ZAMPOST reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the sector through digital services, e-commerce, logistics and financial inclusion to help creatives reach broader markets.

The week-long summit is expected to unlock new partnerships, attract investment and strengthen Africa’s creative economy while cementing Zambia’s position as an emerging hub for creative enterprise.