Zambia Association of Manufacturers Launches 16th Annua Manufacturers' Month

By Pauline Ngozoh

The Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) has officially announced the 16th Annual Manufacturers' Month, set for September 2026. This year’s activities will be held under the theme “Towards Vision 2030: Resurgent Manufacturing for a Prosperous and Inclusive Economy,” reflecting the sector’s role in driving Zambia’s long-term development agenda.

ZAM highlighted that a robust manufacturing sector is central to creating jobs, adding value to natural resources, fostering innovation, expanding exports, and building economic resilience. To sustain growth, the association identified key priorities including reliable and affordable electricity, a lower cost of doing business, increased access to long-term finance, predictable tax policy, and effective implementation of local content regulations.

The September programme will feature several flagship events, including the Mining Local Content Conference, the Energy Efficiency Conference, the Proudly Zambian Expo, and the Manufacturers' Gala Dinner. The Gala Dinner will also host the inaugural Energy Efficiency Awards.

According to government figures, manufacturing accounted for 38.5% of actualised investment between 2021 and June 2026 and generated over 46,000 jobs. The sector currently contributes approximately 9.3% to GDP and 10.4% to government tax revenue. The Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry reaffirmed its commitment to the industrialisation and local content agenda and confirmed participation in the month’s major conferences.

ZAM described Manufacturers' Month as Zambia’s premier platform for celebrating local industry and promoting Proudly Zambian products. The association called on businesses, consumers, and the media to support efforts to showcase manufacturing’s contribution to economic transformation.