UN nodes Zambia’s potential in Global Energy…

The Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, Rebeca Grynspan, has praised Zambia’s economic transformation agenda, describing the country as strategically positioned to drive trade, energy and development growth within Africa. Ms Grynspan has noted that Zambia has successfully turned its landlocked status into a land-linked advantage, positioning itself as a key trade and energy corridor within the African Continental Free Trade Area. Speaking during a bilateral meeting at State House today, Ms Grynspan said Africa will play a central role in the two major global transitions, noting that the same critical minerals required for clean energy systems are equally essential for sustainable economic growth.

Ms Grynspan has further commended Zambia’s strong participation of women in the economy, citing a rate of about 75.8 percent, which she said is above the global average and a critical driver for inclusive growth and economic diversification. She has disclosed that UNCTAD, in collaboration with the Zambian government and the private sector, has conducted a practical study on critical energy transition minerals, resulting in the country specific recommendations aligned with Zambia’s development priorities. Ms Grynspan has also emphasised that the approach is demand-driven, aimed at responding to Zambia’s real needs, rather than externally imposed solutions.

The UNCTAD Secretary-General also acknowledged Zambia’s leadership in climate change adaptation discussions and its role in the global borrowers platform, noting that Zambia’s experience has become a reference point for other developing countries. She highlighted progress in data and digital management systems, revealing that experts from other countries are already learning from Zambia’s model. “We are here to support Zambia in capital mobilisation, revenue enhancement and digital transformation.

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The technology group working with yours will be a model followed in the years to come,” she said. Ms Grynspan expressed optimism about Zambia’s future, praising the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema and the country’s Vision 2030, saying Zambia has the capacity, entrepreneurship and natural resource base to build a sustainable and dynamic economy. “Africa will be key in the two major transitions that the world is going through.

The same minerals needed for the energy transition will be needed for the development transition,” Ms Grynspan said. “Your responsible leadership and long-term vision will be key to making that happen.” Responding to the Secretary General, President Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to institutional reforms and digital transformation, stating that the country is focused on delivering measurable outcomes that place it firmly on the path to self-sufficiency.

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