Zambia Engages Japan, Algeria and Türkiye to Drive Youth and Creative Sector Growth
The Zambian Government has reiterated its commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation in youth development, sport and the creative sector following a series of high-level courtesy calls on the Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Hon. Elvis C. Nkandu, MP, by ambassadors from Japan, Algeria and Türkiye.
During discussions with the Japanese Ambassador to Zambia, His Excellency Mr. Mikami Akiteru, both parties highlighted the long-standing relations between the two countries and emphasised expanding collaboration in arts, sport and youth empowerment programmes.
Hon. Nkandu acknowledged Japan’s continued support across multiple sectors, including the creative industry, and highlighted opportunities for knowledge transfer, particularly in sports technology and innovation.
The Minister further identified potential partnerships in infrastructure development and sport science, including exchange programmes aimed at enhancing local expertise. In the arts sector, Zambia is exploring initiatives such as establishing an arts gallery in Livingstone and inviting Japanese participation in this year’s Creative Business Summit to boost the country’s creative economy.
Ambassador Mikami reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Zambia, citing ongoing support for local initiatives such as judo tournaments and arts festivals. “I may not be a career diplomat, but I come with government experience and a strong determination to build on the already warm relations between our two countries,” he said.
Algerian Ambassador to Zambia, His Excellency Mr. Tewfik Mahi, highlighted the importance of structured cooperation through political consultations, trade engagement and cultural exchanges. Highlighting recent participation of Zambian companies in an Algerian trade fair, Ambassador Mahi encouraged further economic collaboration.
Hon. Nkandu stressed shared aspirations between Zambia and Algeria, noting that exchanging ideas and experiences is essential for mutual development.
In a separate meeting, Turkish Ambassador to Zambia, His Excellency Mr. Huseyin Barbaros Dicle, reaffirmed Türkiye’s readiness to support Zambia in youth development, creative industries and sport, citing a 2018 Memorandum of Understanding as a framework for cooperation.
Ambassador Dicle emphasised Türkiye’s expertise in infrastructure development as an area of potential support.
Hon. Nkandu welcomed the continued engagement with Türkiye, highlighting growing economic linkages and improved connectivity following the introduction of direct flights between Lusaka and Türkiye.
He also called for support to upgrade youth resource centres nationwide to enhance access to technology and skills development.
Across all engagements, the Zambian Government reaffirmed its dedication to leveraging international partnerships to drive youth empowerment, sports excellence and growth in the creative economy, positioning these sectors as key pillars of national development.
