The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) has praised the Zambian government’s commitment to upgrading the nation’s railway infrastructure, with particular emphasis on the Lobito Corridor.
COMESA Secretary General Chileshe Kapwepwe highlighted that the development of the Lobito Corridor is poised to boost trade and investment both nationally and regionally. Kapwepwe also noted the significance of recent agreements regarding the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA), underscoring Zambia’s proactive approach in building infrastructure that supports foreign trade and investment.
Speaking after attending the opening of the fourth session of the 13th National Assembly, themed “Enhancing Natural Resilience: Socio-economic Gains in the Face of Adverse Effects of Climate Change,” Kapwepwe emphasized that economic growth relies heavily on trade and investment. She urged Zambia to view itself as part of a broader regional market rather than limiting its perspective to local production alone.
Kapwepwe also pointed out that COMESA’s free trade area at both regional and continental levels presents significant opportunities for Zambia. She encouraged the country to leverage these advantages and position itself as a key regional producer.
In parallel, Stafford Mulusa, Member of Parliament for Solwezi Central, expressed enthusiasm about the Lobito Corridor’s potential. He noted that the railway line would open up numerous business opportunities for both the nation and specifically for North-Western Province.
“The Lobito Corridor is eagerly awaited in North-Western Province,” Mulusa said. “It will bring unprecedented development and economic activity to an area that has yet to experience the benefits of a railway line. We are excited about the new opportunities this will create for our region.”