IBEx 2025 Communiqué: Transformative Proposals for Zambia’s Economic Growth Presented to the President Through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
By Francis John, Editor, Publisher TipsNews Kansas City
In a landmark initiative to drive Zambia’s economic transformation, key proposals from the International Business Exchange Hybrid Conference (IBEx 2025) were officially submitted to His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC). The submission, led by Freud Musanu, President of the Zambia Diaspora Chamber of Commerce (ZDCC), highlights a series of strategic initiatives aimed at unlocking diaspora investments, fostering global trade partnerships, and enhancing Zambia’s business environment.
The Taj Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka hosted the prestigious IBEx 2025 Conference from March 3-4, 2025, which brought together over 100 participants, including representatives from government ministries, business stakeholders, and the private sector, along with Zambian diaspora leaders from various industries. The event provided a unique platform for high-impact discussions, networking, and deal-making, resulting in numerous successful business transactions, including franchising agreements, strategic partnerships, and trade collaborations.
Lunch, snacks, tea, and exclusive freebies were generously provided by Bigtree Zambia, adding a touch of hospitality to the engaging sessions.
Presentation of Five Transformative Proposals to the President
A photograph features Mr. Freud Musanu, President of the Zambia Diaspora Chamber of Commerce (ZDCC), standing at the center, flanked by two female staff members from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC). The trio is positioned side by side, signifying a moment of diplomatic engagement and collaboration between ZDCC and the Zambian government. Their poised and professional demeanor reflects the significance of the occasion, as they collectively work towards strengthening diaspora-driven investments and international business relations.
The ZDCC, in collaboration with key government ministries, submitted five critical proposals that are set to shape Zambia’s economic future. These proposals, formally handed over through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, include:
1. Establishment of the Zambia Diaspora Trust Fund (ZDTF)
- A dedicated financial vehicle to replace the USAID Fund, ensuring sustainable funding for SMEs, infrastructure development, and priority economic sectors.
- Structured to encourage diaspora remittances as direct investments, creating long-term capital growth and reducing dependency on foreign aid.
2. Introduction of American Football in Zambia
- Inspired by the Kansas City Chiefs’ success, this initiative seeks to diversify Zambia’s sports industry, create jobs, and attract international sponsorships and tourism investments.
- American football will serve as a new economic driver, tapping into broadcasting rights, sports academies, and global partnerships.
3. Creation of the Zambia Ethnic Enrichment Business Festival (ZIEBF)
- Modeled after the Kansas City Ethnic Enrichment Commission, this festival will showcase Zambia’s cultural diversity while promoting trade and investment opportunities.
- Positioned as a global business attraction, the ZIEBF will drive bilateral trade, tourism, and international collaborations.
4. Amendment of Zambia’s Constitution to Allow Diaspora Voting
- Recognizing the diaspora as Zambia’s 11th province, this proposal advocates for diaspora voting rights, enhancing political inclusion and economic engagement.
- Encouraging Zambians abroad to participate in elections fosters a stable democratic environment, which, in turn, attracts more investors and diaspora-led business ventures.
5. Reducing International Airline Layovers to 5 Hours Before Arrival in Lusaka
- This initiative urges the Zambian government to negotiate with airline stakeholders to introduce more direct flights and shorter layovers.
- Improved air travel efficiency will enhance business travel, tourism, and trade relations, making Zambia a more competitive investment destination.
Key Resolutions from IBEx 2025
The conference also established a strategic roadmap to boost diaspora investments, economic inclusion, policy reforms, and digital transformation. The following resolutions were adopted:
1. Strengthening Zambia’s Investment and Financial Ecosystem
- Partnerships with leading banks—including Citibank, Ecobank, Standard Chartered, Stanbic Bank, Zanaco, and Access Bank—to facilitate diaspora financial services and investment inflows.
- The ZDCC Investment Target Committee will oversee the allocation of investment capital towards high-impact projects.
2. Expanding Trade & Investment Opportunities
- Leveraging AGOA to boost Zambia’s exports to the U.S.
- Promoting franchising and public-private partnerships (PPPs) to expand business operations in Zambia.
- Encouraging diaspora-led industrialization in fintech, agribusiness, and e-commerce.
3. Digital Transformation & Social Media Monetization
- Monetizing platforms like YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram, creating millions of dollars in digital revenue for Zambian entrepreneurs.
- Expanding broadband access to support e-commerce, fintech, and remote work opportunities.
4. Infrastructure & Renewable Energy Development
- Investment in off-grid solar projects, rural electrification, and industrial renewable energy solutions.
- Developing smart cities, net-zero tiny homes, and digital payment systems to modernize Zambia’s economy.
5. Enhancing Global Trade & Investment Partnerships
- Official launch of IBEx 2026 in Kansas City,
USA , aligning with the FIFA World Cup to attract foreign investment. - Trade missions planned for Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, the UK, and the U.S. to strengthen international business ties.
- 5-10% of public contracts will be allocated to women and youth entrepreneurs to ensure inclusive economic development.
Government Collaboration: Identifying a Leading Ministry to Work with ZDCC
A key outcome of IBEx 2025 is the commitment to establish a formal working relationship between ZDCC and one of three key ministries:
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
- Ministry of Commerce, Trade, and Industry
- Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises Development
A Service Level Agreement (SLA) or Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) will be finalized with the ministry that takes the leading role in fostering a long-term collaboration with ZDCC to implement the conference’s resolutions effectively.
Next Steps: IBEx 2026 & Zambia’s Investment Vision
IBEx 2025 concluded with a resolute commitment to expanding its impact through IBEx 2026 in Kansas City,
- Strengthening Diaspora Investment Networks – Launching mentorship programs, startup incubators, and investment funds.
- Enhancing Financial Accessibility – Working with global banks to streamline diaspora banking and investment services.
- Promoting Technology & Innovation – Expanding AI, blockchain, and fintech partnerships.
- Ensuring Government Collaboration – Creating a joint ZDCC-Government Secretariat to facilitate investment negotiations, security, and policy development.
Conclusion: The Future of Zambia’s Economic Transformation
IBEx 2025 has set a bold and transformative economic agenda, demonstrating that diaspora wealth and global trade partnerships are crucial to Zambia’s future prosperity. With the $1 billion investment goal by 2030, Zambia is poised to become a leading economic powerhouse in Africa.
As the nation moves forward, the collaboration between the diaspora, the government, and the private sector will be the driving force behind long-term economic sustainability and global competitiveness.
For partnerships, investment inquiries, and opportunities, contact ZDCC:
📩 Email: contact@zdcc.org
🌍 Website: www.zdcc.org
📞 Phone: +1 816 352 7094 | +260 967 687475 | +260 961 059844
