A conference aimed at addressing challenges in the transport and logistics sector opened Thursday in Lusaka, with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema calling for increased investment in infrastructure development across Africa.
Speaking at the Fourth Zambia Land-linked Conference, President Hichilema stated that transport corridors would help strengthen intra-African trade, which remains weak due to ongoing issues such as inadequate transportation systems.
According to Hichilema, it is essential to invest in one-stop border posts to ease trade flows and promote intra-African commerce.
He emphasized that joint infrastructure investments by African countries would yield better results than isolated efforts.
The president also urged the private sector to work with governments to support infrastructure development, as part of broader efforts to reduce the cost of doing business.
Zambia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Frank Tayali, underscored the importance of lowering transport costs. He noted that Zambia is leveraging its geographical position by investing in transport infrastructure to enhance connectivity with neighboring countries.
The conference, held under the theme “Embracing Smart Transport Corridors in Africa,” takes place Thursday and Friday and brings together 12 ministers from the Southern African region, along with key stakeholders from the sector.
