Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 11th May, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The European Union has unveiled an ambitious multi-sector investment package worth over €500 million in Zambia, positioning the country as a pivotal node for regional economic integration, sustainable energy transition and green infrastructure development.
Announced during the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of EU-Zambia relations on May 9, 2025, the investment is part of the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy, which seeks to channel sustainable and transformative financing into partner countries. The package spans critical areas including energy, transport, mining value chains, forest conservation and democratic governance.
Speaking during the event, EU Ambassador to Zambia, Her Excellency Karolina Stasiak, underscored the bloc’s intention to narrow Zambia’s infrastructure and investment gaps, citing flagship projects such as the Zambia-Tanzania Interconnector and the rehabilitation of the Kariba Dam as catalytic interventions for regional power trade and energy security.
Ambassador Stasiak also highlighted the strategic importance of the Lobito Corridor, whose development will amplify Zambia’s role as a land-linked logistics and trade hub, while unlocking untapped economic potential in the Copperbelt and North Western provinces through increased demand for Zambian products and value-added minerals.
“Our partnership goes beyond financing—it is about anchoring Zambia in global value chains, ensuring that the benefits of responsible mining, green energy and sustainable forestry translate into jobs and opportunities for local communities,” she said.
In addition to infrastructure and energy, the EU is expanding its footprint in Zambia’s environmental sector through the EU-Zambia Forest Partnership, which seeks to reverse deforestation, promote sustainable forest management and stimulate green economic activities.
On the political front, Ambassador Stasiak reaffirmed the EU’s enduring commitment to supporting Zambia’s democratic governance, commending the country’s principled stance on international issues such as the conflict in Ukraine and pledging EU support for Zambia’s preparations toward the 2026 general elections.
Minister of Labour and Social Security, Brenda Mwika Tambatamba, who officiated at the event, hailed the EU’s unwavering support as Zambia intensifies implementation of its Eighth National Development Plan, focused on economic transformation, job creation and environmental sustainability.
“The EU’s investments are not only strengthening our energy systems and critical infrastructure but are also creating new opportunities in green growth, trade expansion and industrialisation,” said Ms. Tambatamba. “We value our enduring partnership, which continues to support Zambia’s aspirations for a resilient, inclusive and sustainable economy.”
The Minister also commended the EU for selecting Zambia as a key pilot for the Green Nexus Programme a model that integrates communities, government, private sector and development partners to drive inclusive green growth.
The commemoration concluded with a reaffirmation of the two partners commitment to deepen their strategic cooperation, laying the foundation for Zambia to emerge as a regional leader in sustainable development, energy transition, and democratic governance.
The Agency.