Zambia’s Regulatory Bodies Unite to Empower SMEs Along Lobito Corridor
Four key statutory bodies under the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry have pledged to equip Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with essential skills to boost trade and competitiveness along the Lobito Corridor.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC), Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS), Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA), and Zambia Metrology Agency (ZMA) made the commitment during a module development workshop in Chisamba today.
The initiative aims to strengthen SME capacity in North-Western and Copperbelt Provinces under the Lobito Corridor Trade Facilitation Project.
Humphrey Nkobeni, Chairperson of the SME Training Program and ZMA Executive Director, emphasized the critical role of SMEs in Zambia’s economy, accounting for over 70% of employment and contributing significantly to GDP. However, many still face challenges in accessing modern skills, market intelligence, and financial literacy.
“This collaboration positions us to accelerate domestic and cross-border trade growth along the Lobito Corridor,” said Mr. Nkobeni. “By implementing harmonized trade facilitation measures and enhancing SME participation in key value chains—such as cassava, honey, and peanut butter—we can unlock transformative economic opportunities.”
The Lobito Corridor, linking Zambia, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is more than just a transport route—it’s a catalyst for regional integration, industrialization, and inclusive growth.
“Infrastructure alone doesn’t create prosperity,” noted Nkobeni. “What brings it to life is the capacity of businesses to utilize it effectively.” The workshop focuses on developing practical training modules to help SMEs scale up, formalize operations, and access regional markets—with special attention to women- and youth-led enterprises.
In October 2024, the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry signed an agreement with ZCSA, ZABS, and ZMA—supported by CCPC—to train over 40 agriculture cooperatives and SMEs in standardization, quality assurance, and metrology. Funded by the African Development Bank, the Lobito Corridor Trade Facilitation Project aims to enhance trade among Zambia, Angola, and the DRC.
The workshop lays the foundation for enhancing SME capabilities through targeted skill development for business growth and market access, while prioritizing inclusive support for women and youth entrepreneurs and strengthening institutional frameworks for trade facilitation.
These strategic interventions position Zambia’s SMEs to become key drivers in unlocking the full economic potential of the Lobito Corridor, fostering regional trade and sustainable development.
