06/28/2025
Australian Business Delegation for IZIC 2025
Today, Saturday in Canberra, we had the opportunity to hold a strategic meeting with Mr John Kalunga of Seth Diesel, Mr Andreck Lungu, as well as Mr Ignitious Nsombo, Zambian entrepreneurs based in Perth, Australia. Our discussion focused on preparations for the upcoming Invest Zambia International Conference (IZIC 2025) and the broader business and investment prospects, particularly in Zambia’s mining sector.
We reflected on the significance of the IZIC platform, organised by the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), as a moment for serious engagement between Zambian businesses in Australia, and international stakeholders. The planned business delegation will spend approximately ten days in Zambia, allowing time for business-to-business and government-to-business meetings both before and after the main conference dates.
One of the key topics discussed was the emerging framework of Zambia’s local content regulations in the mining industry. These new policies are aimed at ensuring stronger Zambian participation by requiring local directors, prioritising Zambian suppliers, and creating opportunities for indigenous businesses. These developments present both challenges and exciting possibilities for Zambian entrepreneurs, especially those in the diaspora.
We shared honest perspectives about the hurdles faced by Zambian-owned firms, such as competing with long-established South African businesses, limited access to mining supply chains, and skills gaps in technical areas. We agreed that increased international exposure, strategic collaboration, and consistent narrative building will be key to overcoming these obstacles.
A collaborative approach is emerging among the delegates—one rooted in mutual support, knowledge-sharing, and the leveraging of Australian business standards to promote Zambian excellence. Together, we outlined next steps, including the development of company profiles, capability briefs, tailored presentations, and setting up direct engagements with mining sector players.
Our shared long-term goals are clear: to build sustainable partnerships in the Zambian mining sector, support skills development, and establish a network of Zambian businesses in Australia with a global outlook.
As the High Commission, we remain fully committed to supporting this delegation and creating more pathways for Zambian businesses to thrive—at home and abroad.
Zambia is growing, and Zambians everywhere are ready to grow with it.
Rev. Dr. Elias Munshya
HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR ZAMBIA
Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific Islands