As a proud sponsor of AFSIC, the Zambia Development Agency unveils a spectrum of promising investment opportunities, inviting investors to explore the dynamic growth potential of the Zambian market.
The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), this year’s esteemed partner of AFSIC, is excited to showcase a curated selection of investment opportunities within the AFSIC Deal Book. We extend an invitation to all investors to delve into these prospects. We eagerly anticipate facilitating connections between potential investors and project promoters, while providing comprehensive support for market entry into Zambia.
Strategic Ambitions of the Zambia Development Agency
Endowed with a pivotal mandate by Zambian law, the ZDA aims to:
Propel economic growth and development by endorsing trade, business development, and investment within the Republic through a coordinated, effective, and efficient private-sector-led economic development strategy;
Foster economic diversification by enhancing export growth;
Support, facilitate, protect, and monitor both domestic and foreign direct investment;
Promote investment through joint ventures and partnerships between local and foreign investors;
Aid in the development of industrial infrastructure and commercial services;
Advance research on matters pertaining to industrial development;
Assist in the protection of nascent industries;
Address matters connected with, and incidental to, the above.
A Panorama of Investment Opportunities in Zambia
The ZDA maintains and routinely updates a catalog of investment opportunities ripe for acquisition. As AFSIC sponsors, we are honored to present these opportunities within the AFSIC Deal Book, and we stand ready to provide additional information, connect prospective investors with project promoters, and offer a broad range of investor support as you venture into the Zambian market.
Zambia’s Booming Sectors Offering Prime Opportunities for Foreign Investment
Mining: Zambia’s mining sector, especially in copper and cobalt, continues to burgeon due to heightened global demand for these minerals, spurred by the green energy transition and electric vehicle production. Investments exceeding USD 4.5 billion were unveiled in January 2024, attributable to concerted sector and business environment reforms, positioning Zambia as Africa’s most reliable mining investment partner. Furthermore, the government has set an ambitious target of reaching 3 million MT of copper production by 2031, presenting vast growth opportunities amid high demand for critical minerals such as copper, cobalt, nickel, lithium, and manganese.
Renewable Energy: This sector is experiencing rapid expansion as Zambia invests in solar, hydropower, and other renewable energy projects to meet surging energy demands and lessen fossil fuel reliance. Domestic electricity needs are projected to soar, mainly driven by mining and agricultural expansion. By 2030, electricity generation must increase by 44%, equating to an additional 13.8 TWH annually to fuel economic growth, translating to an added market potential of $960M per annum.
Agriculture: Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Zambia’s economy, with growth propelled by initiatives to boost productivity, diversify crops, and expand exports. The country has earmarked 1 million hectares of land across all 10 provinces in strategic farm blocks, open to both local and foreign investors for either rain-fed or highly mechanized farming activities.
Construction and Infrastructure: Significant investments in infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, housing, and commercial buildings, are driving growth in this sector. The country faces a substantial backlog, needing in excess of 2 million housing units, in addition to vast civil infrastructure that requires construction and upgrades, encompassing health, education, logistics, and more.
Tourism: The tourism sector is rebounding and growing post-pandemic, with efforts to promote Zambia’s natural attractions, such as Victoria Falls, national parks, and wildlife.
Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector is witnessing growth, particularly in agro-processing, food and beverages, textiles, and construction materials, driven by efforts to diversify the economy.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT): The ICT sector is rapidly expanding due to increasing digitalization, growing internet penetration, and rising mobile phone usage.