Zambia launches online investment forum with ECA and UNCTAD support

Abstract

The Zambian iGuide, an electronic investment platform, was launched in Lusaka this week with technical support from the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. The two sister organizations undertook the project jointly in line with the United Nations principle of “Delivering as One”. The platform was officially unveiled by Ms. Kayula Siame, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry. The Zambia Development Agency also played a key role in the project. During the presentation of the platform, Mr. Emmanuel Chinyama of the ECA, highlighted the structure of the iGuide, which is composed of seven thematic chapters - getting started, labour, production factors, land, taxes, investor rights and growth sectors and opportunities. It is complemented by an additional chapter containing essential country data. Each of the thematic chapters also features a section with feedback from investors on the ground. Efforts are currently under way to launch the Nigerian one. To date, eleven countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America and the Caribbean, including Burundi, Kenya, Congo and Rwanda, have the electronic platforms for investors at their disposal. The launch event was attended by government officials, private sector representatives and members of the diplomatic corps.