ZAMBIA and Egypt share a rich and resilient diplomatic history that dates back to 1965; just one year after the former gained independence.
Egypt recognised Zambia early on, aligning with founding President Kenneth Kaunda’s pan-African ideals.
Both nations supported liberation movements in southern Africa, promoting unity and independence across the continent.
Egypt has consistently offered political support in regional affairs, while Zambia has engaged in multilateral platforms with Egypt in African Union and Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa.
High-level exchanges, including President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to Egypt in 2025, continue to strengthen state-level ties.
Egypt has supported Zambia in pharmaceutical development, water and sanitation projects, including educational initiatives.
Egyptian companies like Arab Contractors now collaborate on major infrastructure – including roads, housing and energy.
It is no wonder President Hichilema’s push for deeper Zambia-Egypt ties carries strategic and transformative importance.
The head of State made the push yesterday when a delegation of Arab Contractors led by Egyptian Ambassador to Zambia Mayada Essam called on him at State House.
This matters a lot because the President’s desire reinforces Zambia’s long-standing diplomatic relationship with Egypt, elevating it from symbolic to practical cooperation.
The focus on “people-to-people and government-to-government” links promotes mutual trust and cultural exchange.
Egypt’s robust construction, energy and pharmaceutical industries offer Zambia access to advanced expertise and technology.
Partnerships, like with Arab Contractors, could fast-track infrastructure development, such as roads and housing, closing Zambia’s housing deficit and boosting mobility.
During the meeting, President Hichilema also underscored the need for Zambia to work with the Egyptian government in many areas, especially in water harvesting as it borders on food security and economic growth.
This emphasis on water harvesting aligns with climate adaptation goals and food security, which are critical for Zambia’s agricultural economy.
President Hichilema’s focus on collaborating with Egypt in water harvesting signals a strategic step towards securing Zambia’s economic future.
Zambia’s agriculture sector relies heavily on rainfall, making it vulnerable to climate shocks.
Partnering with Egypt – renowned for its mastery in water conservation and irrigation – could help Zambia develop resilient systems like smart reservoirs, drip irrigation, and rainwater harvesting technologies.
Also, Egypt’s extensive experience with water and sewerage projects makes it a valuable partner in navigating Zambia’s environmental constraints.
In addition, Egypt has supported Zambia’s pharmaceutical sector, which may lead to better healthcare access and local manufacturing.
Potential collaborations in electricity and education could further bolster Zambia’s long-term resilience and capacity.
By anchoring ties with influential African states like Egypt, Zambia positions itself as a proactive player in continental development.
This shift towards economic diplomacy opens doors for private and public investments in priority sectors.
President Hichilema’s vision is not just about signing agreements; it is about actualising impact.
It is strategic leadership aimed at transforming Zambia’s economy while contributing to broader African integration.
In short, Zambia and Egypt’s 60-year diplomatic legacy is not only historical but also a powerful launchpad for future progress.
Zambia, Egypt ties launchpad for progress
ZAMBIA and Egypt share a rich and resilient diplomatic history that dates back to 1965; just one year after the former gained independence.
Egypt recognised Zambia early on, aligning with founding President Kenneth Kaunda’s pan-African ideals.
Both nations supported liberation movements in southern Africa, promoting unity and independence across the continent.
Egypt has consistently offered political support in regional affairs, while Zambia has engaged in multilateral platforms with Egypt in African Union and Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa.
High-level exchanges, including President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to Egypt in 2025, continue to strengthen state-level ties.
Egypt has supported Zambia in pharmaceutical development, water and sanitation projects, including educational initiatives.
Egyptian companies like Arab Contractors now collaborate on major infrastructure – including roads, housing and energy.
It is no wonder President Hichilema’s push for deeper Zambia-Egypt ties carries strategic and transformative importance.
The head of State made the push yesterday when a delegation of Arab Contractors led by Egyptian Ambassador to Zambia Mayada Essam called on him at State House.
This matters a lot because the President’s desire reinforces Zambia’s long-standing diplomatic relationship with Egypt, elevating it from symbolic to practical cooperation.
The focus on “people-to-people and government-to-government” links promotes mutual trust and cultural exchange.
Egypt’s robust construction, energy and pharmaceutical industries offer Zambia access to advanced expertise and technology.
Partnerships, like with Arab Contractors, could fast-track infrastructure development, such as roads and housing, closing Zambia’s housing deficit and boosting mobility.
During the meeting, President Hichilema also underscored the need for Zambia to work with the Egyptian government in many areas, especially in water harvesting as it borders on food security and economic growth.
This emphasis on water harvesting aligns with climate adaptation goals and food security, which are critical for Zambia’s agricultural economy.
President Hichilema’s focus on collaborating with Egypt in water harvesting signals a strategic step towards securing Zambia’s economic future.
Zambia’s agriculture sector relies heavily on rainfall, making it vulnerable to climate shocks.
Partnering with Egypt – renowned for its mastery in water conservation and irrigation – could help Zambia develop resilient systems like smart reservoirs, drip irrigation, and rainwater harvesting technologies.
Also, Egypt’s extensive experience with water and sewerage projects makes it a valuable partner in navigating Zambia’s environmental constraints.
In addition, Egypt has supported Zambia’s pharmaceutical sector, which may lead to better healthcare access and local manufacturing.
Potential collaborations in electricity and education could further bolster Zambia’s long-term resilience and capacity.
By anchoring ties with influential African states like Egypt, Zambia positions itself as a proactive player in continental development.
This shift towards economic diplomacy opens doors for private and public investments in priority sectors.
President Hichilema’s vision is not just about signing agreements; it is about actualising impact.
It is strategic leadership aimed at transforming Zambia’s economy while contributing to broader African integration.
In short, Zambia and Egypt’s 60-year diplomatic legacy is not only historical but also a powerful launchpad for future progress.