China’s ZTE to Establish Smartphone Factory in Zambia
In a major technological advancement for Zambia, ZTE Chairman Li Zixue is set to visit the country on September 25, 2023, to kickstart the establishment of a smartphone manufacturing plant. This exciting development follows the signing of a crucial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ZTE and the Zambian government at ZTE’s headquarters in Shenzhen, China.
Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, Du Xiaohui, underlined the significance of this initiative, emphasizing Zambia’s status as a pivotal investment market within the Southern African region. Xiaohui clarified that the Chairman’s visit would mark the official commencement of the smartphone factory project.
China has pledged to honor the agreements made during President Hakainde Hichilema’s state visit to China, which encompass vital contributions in technology, machinery, and capital across various sectors of Zambia’s development.
Moreover, China is extending its support to Zambia in matters of international equity and justice, contributing to regional and global peace and development, as mutually agreed by Presidents Hichilema and Xi Jinping. This collaboration extends to addressing climate change, with China offering technological expertise in the domain of smart agriculture to combat the adverse effects of climate change.
Aligned with their green development strategic partnership, China and Zambia will collaborate on environmental protection, climate change mitigation, green economy initiatives, and emergency risk response mechanisms. China will also provide assistance to Zambia in establishing industries that focus on value addition.
During President Hichilema’s visit to China, 15 MoUs were signed between the two nations, encompassing various sectors of their respective economies.
This landmark development signifies a substantial stride in enhancing Zambia’s technological capabilities and promoting economic growth through the local production of smartphones.