In a significant step toward strengthening economic cooperation among African nations, a delegation of high-level Ugandan investors has secured extensive land and investment guarantees in Zambia.
This achievement followed strategic diplomatic and business discussions held at the State House in Lusaka, which included a direct meeting with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema.
The delegation, which included 17 prominent business leaders representing the Celestial Billionaires Family, was led by Honorable Rose Namayanja Nsereko, the Deputy Secretary General of Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
This mission demonstrates a commitment by both countries to bypass traditional bureaucratic hurdles in favor of regional integration and “African-led solutions.”
President Hichilema, who is working to make Zambia a preferred destination for international capital through reform, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening ties with Kampala.
During the meeting, the President emphasized that Africa’s practice of exporting only raw materials must end. He called on Ugandan investors to focus on adding value to products, technology transfer, and working jointly with local Zambian companies.
“Africa must use its own resources to accelerate its own growth,” President Hichilema stated. He added that investing in value-chain technology is crucial for creating job opportunities, particularly for the youth.
Responding to the President’s call, Ms. Namayanja confirmed that several Ugandan companies have already begun registration processes. She noted that some investors have already started operations in the manufacturing and hospitality sectors, while others are finalizing legal frameworks to launch new projects.
The Zambian government, through the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), has pledged to streamline investment processes and has granted specific land holdings to the Ugandan group. Key commitments include housing and infrastructure, where Ugandan firms like Hallmark Construction, led by James Kayita, are expected to play a major role in addressing Zambia’s deficit of approximately 15,000 housing units by building affordable homes in Lusaka and other areas.
In the area of agricultural processing, extensive land has been allocated for maize mills and livestock farming. Investors in poultry and fish farming are also studying market entry strategies to meet regional demand. Additionally, Uganda has secured immediate opportunities to supply products such as soybeans, powdered milk, millet, cassava, and goat meat to the Zambian market.
To ensure the sustainability of these investments, Uganda has strengthened its diplomatic presence in Lusaka. The launch of enhanced consular services is expected to facilitate trade, improve legal document handling, and ease the movement of personnel between the two countries.
Notable figures participating in this mission included Patrick Ogwang Obura (MP-Elect), Dr. Benon Luggya of Maganjo Group of Companies, and Godfrey Babi Kimera of City Sites Group. Their involvement reflects the desire of Ugandan companies to seek growth beyond domestic borders by utilizing frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
