TRYNESS TEMBO
Kafue
THE Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) has handed over 13 permits to investors in the Golden Baobab Multi-Facility Economic Zone, representing a combined investment of US$195 million and creation of 7,800 jobs.
The MFEZ is designed as an integrated industrial ecosystem spanning manufacturing, energy, transport, construction and agro-processing, positioning Zambia as a regional hub for industrial growth and export competitiveness.
ZDA board chairperson Biemba Maliti notes that development is a reflection of the conference the investors have in the reforms and consistent policies taking place in the country.
Speaking during the permit presentation ceremony yesterday, Professor Maliti said this is a result of the business-friendly environment created by the New Dawn administration.
“MFEZs are a key instrument under the agenda and central to Government’s agenda to promote value addition and diversification.
We are tired as a country of just exporting raw materials and little value addition is done locally,” he said.
Prof Maliti encouraged investors to deliver on their promise by creating decent jobs, increased industrial output for both local and export markets, as well as strong linkages with the local businesses.
And Golden Baobab park director Huang Pengqi said trade schools will significantly benefit from the development to perfect their skills.
Mr Huang said in a speech read for him by director Tresford Kaunda that there will also be benefits for other sectors such as hospitality, real estate and financial due to the influx of people in the area.
ZDA director general Albert Halwampa described the event as a validation of President Hakainde Hichilema’s marketing of the country.
Mr Halwampa said from 2021 to 2025, ZDA has approved about six MFEZs across the country.
He said these are driven by the good policies of the New Dawn administration….https://enews.daily-mail.co.zm/welcome/home
