The Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) President, Ashu Sagar, has called for stronger partnerships with Canada through the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI).
Speaking at a Competitiveness Workshop in Lusaka, Mr. Sagar emphasized the importance of such collaborations in fostering long-term development and enhancing the manufacturing sector in Zambia.
“The partnership I would like to reference today is very important, and we must recognize this at the outset in terms of what we are trying to achieve through such long-term development programs,” said Mr. Sagar.
He highlighted the significance of the workshop, which is a product of collaboration between ZAM and Canadian initiatives.
“As we go through this workshop, we recognize what we are trying to develop. It is a pleasure for me to be a part of this competitiveness workshop, which is the product of a collaboration between ZAM and Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives. This collaboration lies at the heart of a convergence of interests between our transitions. We need a unity of focus to advance not only with the Canadian government but also with its membership and the Zambian government. This focus will allow us to work on developing new platforms for the future,” he said.
Mr. Sagar also announced that the workshop will be followed by a three-month mentorship program aimed at instilling practical skills within firms and SMEs.
“This workshop will be followed by a three-month mentorship program where the practicalities of training will be instilled within firms and SMEs. The foundation of the development of the manufacturing sector is revolutionary for individual businesses. There is no point in manufacturing if you cannot facilitate training beyond your borders. Our economy benefits when we expose opportunities beyond the limitations of the domestic economy,” he said.
He further emphasized the importance of the export market in providing an edge against payments and capitalizing on opportunities in the African market and beyond.
“Furthermore, once established, the export market provides an edge against payments and allows us to capitalize on opportunities in the African market and beyond. Learning the intricacies of export markets and how they work is essential. We must understand why integration is necessary for Africa, despite the new free trade areas we have created on the continent. Africa, as a continent, has the least amount of trade within itself, and our intercontinental trade needs to improve,” he said.
Meanwhile, Head of Office at Canadian High Commission in Zambia Corry Van Gaal said it was pleased to witness the successful commencement of the Competitive Workshop held in Lusaka, made possible through the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives.
Ms Van Gaal stated that the workshop aims to empower local businesses and manufacturers by providing them with the knowledge and tools necessary to expand into international markets.
“I am very pleased to join you this morning for this workshop. It is made possible through the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives, which provides crucial funding to trusted organizations to deliver impactful programs like this one,” said Ms Van Gaal.
She highlighted the passion and dedication of the CEO team and the Association of Manufacturers, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives.
“I see a group of inspiring and diverse exporters united by a common goal: to expand your businesses into international markets, starting with Africa and eventually reaching beyond the continent,” she said.
During her address, Ms Van Gaal underscored the significance of exporting for local businesses.
“Expanding your business beyond domestic borders can lead to increased revenue and diversification. More importantly, it fosters innovation and allows you to tap into new customer bases with varying demands. By leveraging global supply chains, you can enhance your manufacturing processes with contributions from international partners,” she said.
She also acknowledged the challenges that come with entering international markets.
“The global marketplace offers many opportunities, but it also comes with challenges. Embracing these challenges is crucial for growth and success. It’s like a young boy entering a football stadium with more experienced players; he must decide whether to rise to the occasion and overcome the obstacles,” she said.
Ms Van Gaal stressed the importance of being export-ready.
“Being export-ready means more than just graduating to the global stage. It involves understanding the complexities of international trade and being prepared to navigate them. This workshop is a step towards that readiness, and I am confident that together, we can achieve great things,” she said.
