AU Applauds Zambia for Prioritizing SME Growth Through Dedicated Ministry
The African Union (AU) has commended the Zambian government for establishing a Ministry solely dedicated to the development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), calling it a progressive step toward inclusive economic growth across the continent.
Speaking during a courtesy call on Zambia’s Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Hon. Elias Mubanga, the AU Director of Industry, Minerals, Entrepreneurship and Tourism, Mrs. Ron Osman Omar, praised Zambia for leading by example.
“This is a strategic move that allows for the creation of tailor-made policies and a conducive trading environment for entrepreneurs to thrive,” Mrs. Omar said. “I encourage African states to continue looking within the continent for solutions. Economically, industrial entrepreneurship is the way to go.”
Mrs. Omar is in Zambia for the 13th AU Multi-Stakeholders Experts Retreat and the 4th Edition of the Africa SME Development Program Partnership Platform (ASMED 3P), held from 12th to 16th May 2025. The platform seeks to advance AU SME Strategy initiatives aimed at formalizing SMEs, enhancing access to finance, and integrating them into regional markets.
Meanwhile, Minister Mubanga welcomed the AU’s support, emphasizing the vital role MSMEs play in driving economic development.
“Entrepreneurs, especially those in the micro, small, and medium sector, are the backbone of our economy,” Hon. Mubanga said. “Africa can support Africa. We must empower our entrepreneurs—particularly in industrialization and agriculture—to unlock the continent’s full potential.”
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration among stakeholders to ensure a unified approach to industrial and entrepreneurial growth.
