Government has urged COMESA member states that have not yet ratified the three outstanding regulations to do so and speed up implementation of regional integration commitments. Minister of Commerce Trade and Industry Chipoka Mulenga has encouraged member states to embark on an integrated planning and resource mobilisation programme. The media reports that Mr Mulenga said this in a speech read for him by his Permanent Secretary Lillian Bwalya during the 46thCOMESA Inter-Governmental Committee Meeting held in Lusaka.
“Member States must accelerate domestication and implementation of instruments adopted by the Tripartite Council of Ministries, he said, “fully engage in market integration, infrastructure development and industrial development,” he added. Mr Mulenga also called for stronger collaboration with continental partners, saying the secretariat should work jointly with the three RECs in implementing programmes that support regional integration. “The Secretariat should seriously work on alternative funding mechanisms,” he said.
Mr Mulenga further appealed to partners to support the upcoming 2026–2030 Medium-Term Strategic Plan once adopted. He expressed appreciation to cooperating partners for continued support. “We are grateful to our development and cooperative partners for their steadfast support in funding commercial programmes,” he said.
Read Full Article on Lusaka Times
[paywall]
Speaking at the same event, COMESA Secretary General Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe stressed the importance of digital technologies in deepening regional integration. “It is both a great honour and a profound privilege to welcome you all,” she said.
[/paywall]
