Zambia Takes Bold Steps to Empower SMEs Through Mentorship Forum

The Zambian Government, through the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, has partnered with Investlane Ventures Limited to launch the SME Mentorship Forum 2025, a strategic initiative aimed at tackling key challenges faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The forum, scheduled for April 10th-11th, 2025, at Garden Court Hotel in Kitwe, Copperbelt Province, will be held under the theme “Mentoring and Empowering SME Growth: Unlocking Opportunities.” It will provide a platform for SMEs to engage directly with industry leaders, financial experts, and policymakers to address critical barriers such as limited access to finance, market entry challenges, and business development skills.

Speaking during a briefing, Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Subeta K. Mutelo, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to entrepreneurial growth, stating: “The SME Mentorship Forum 2025 is designed to bridge gaps in knowledge, funding, and market access, ensuring that SMEs are well-equipped to thrive in today’s business environment.”

Investlane Ventures Limited CEO, Mr. Brenna Manda, also highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration, adding: “Bringing together business sector players and policymakers under one roof allows for meaningful dialogue and practical solutions that will strengthen both private and government-owned businesses.”

This initiative aligns with President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision of youth empowerment, job creation, and national economic development. By equipping SMEs with the right tools, financial access, and business mentorship, the forum aims to unlock new business opportunities and enhance economic resilience.

The Ministry is calling on SMEs, financial institutions, and corporate stakeholders to participate in this transformative initiative, as a thriving SME sector is vital to Zambia’s economic growth and prosperity.