Outcome of the Zim-Zam joint commission
The 18th session of the Zambia-Zimbabwe Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation was held from March 13 to 15 at the Rainbow Towers Hotel in Harare — Zimbabwe.
This event marked a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) is pleased to provide an overview of the outcomes of this important gathering from a business perspective.
During the session, the ZNCC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZACCI).
This MOU aims to enhance cooperation between the two chambers, promote trade and investment and facilitate information exchange to support businesses in both countries.
The signing of this MOU signifies a commitment to fostering closer ties and creating a conducive environment for business growth and development.
The relationship between ZNCC and ZACCI dates back to the colonial era and the MOU solidifies and documents the scope of their cooperation, building on existing collaborations through initiatives such as the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Business Council and the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) Business Community.
Additionally, the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) and ZimTrade signed a tripartite MOU with the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA).
This agreement aims to promote investment, trade and economic cooperation between Zambia, Zimbabwe and other regional partners.
It underscores the commitment of both countries to leveraging their respective strengths to drive economic growth and development in the region.
Several projects were discussed during the session, highlighting the potential for further collaboration between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
One such project is the Lions’ Den-Kafue Railway line, which aims to enhance connectivity between the two countries and improve the efficiency of transporting goods and services.
The Lion’s Den-Kafue Project envisages the construction of a new railway line to link Lion’s Den in Zimbabwe with Kafue in Zambia, where it joins the Zambia Railway Network.
This project will provide a shorter transit route for traffic between Zambia and Zimbabwe, as well as to and from the Mozambican sea port at Beira, offering an alternative route for traffic to and from the seaports in South Africa and the countries north of Zambia.
The total length of the line will be approximately 304 km.
The Kazungula border post project was also on the agenda, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to facilitating trade and the movement of goods across their borders.
Kazungula Road border post links Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) and Kasane (Botswana), serving as a crucial gateway where Namibia, Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe meet.
Another significant project discussed was the Batoka South hydropower project, which has the potential to significantly boost the energy sector in both countries.
This project aims to harness the power of the Zambezi River to generate electricity, addressing the energy needs of both Zambia and Zimbabwe and contributing to regional energy security.
In another project being spearheaded by both countries in partnership with the United Nations Development Agency, there are plans to establish a Joint Agro-Industrial Park and also a twinning of cities or provinces.
In conclusion, the 18th Session of the Zambia-Zimbabwe Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation was a resounding success, underscoring the commitment of both countries to deepen their economic cooperation.
The signing of MOUs and discussions on key projects demonstrate the potential for further collaboration and investment between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
As the ZNCC, we look forward to supporting these initiatives and working closely with our Zambian counterparts to promote trade and investment for the mutual benefit of our countries and the region as a whole.
This article was prepared by the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce for Business Weekly
