https://www.facebook.com/275893338941955/

Investlane Ventures Limited, Ndola (2026)

29/04/2026

PRESENTATION HIGHLIGHT;

TITLE: Focus on SME Title: Development to Pave Way for a Private Sector-Led Economic Recovery.

By: Zambia Development Agency
Presented: by Mr. Andrew Hanchibe
Copperbelt Investment Summit & Expo 2025 Edition.

1 . BACKGROUND AND CONTEXT

Zambia’s economy, like many others globally, has experienced significant disruptions over the past few years due to:

Global economic instability
Supply chain disruptions
Rising inflationary pressures
Energy challenges
Reduced industrial productivity
Limited access to affordable financing
Climate-related vulnerabilities affecting agriculture and production

These challenges have disproportionately affected SMEs, despite the fact that SMEs contribute significantly to employment creation and economic participation.

SMEs account for the majority of businesses in Zambia and represent a substantial portion of the labor force. However, many remain informal, underfinanced, and excluded from mainstream growth opportunities.

This presents both a challenge and an opportunity.

2 . WHY SMEs MATTER
SMEs are the Backbone of the Economy

SMEs play a critical role in:

Employment creation
Poverty reduction
Income generation
Innovation and entrepreneurship
Supply chain development
Industrial diversification
Regional trade participation

A strong SME sector creates resilience and reduces overdependence on large corporations and traditional sectors.

SMEs Enable Inclusive Growth

SMEs allow:

Youth participation in business
Women-led enterprise growth
Rural industrialization
Community wealth creation
Local ownership of economic opportunities

Private sector-led recovery cannot happen without strong SME participation.

3 . Key Challenges Facing SMEs in Zambia

Despite their importance, SMEs continue to face major barriers:

4.1 Limited Access to Finance
High interest rates
Strict collateral requirements
Limited investment readiness
Low access to patient capital.

20/04/2026

KEY FOCUS AREAS OF THE PRESENTATION:

1. Risk Mitigation in Mining & Energy Projects.
2. Emphasizing tailored insurance solutions for large-scale industrial operations.
3. Insurance for Renewable Energy Investments.
4. Supporting solar, hydro and emerging clean energy projects.
5. SME Insurance Solutions
Enhancing financial protection for small and medium enterprises.
6. Digital Transformation in Insurance
Leveraging technology to improve access, efficiency and service delivery.

IMPACT AT THE SUMMIT:

1. Strengthened dialogue between insurers, investors and policymakers.
2. Positioned ZSIC as a key enabler of secure and sustainable investment.
3. Enhanced awareness of insurance solutions in emerging sectors.
2. Supported the broader agenda of financial inclusion and economic resilience.

EXHIBITION & ENGAGEMENT

ZSIC actively engaged stakeholders through:

1. Showcasing its range of insurance products and services.
2. Direct interaction with businesses and potential clients.
3. Building partnerships within the mining, energy and SME ecosystems.

KEY TAKEAWAY:

ZSIC’s presence at the Summit reinforced the critical role of insurance in driving Zambia’s economic transformation, particularly in supporting a green, resilient, and investment-ready economy.

20/04/2026

PRESENTATION HIGHLIGHT:
Zambia State Insurance Corporation (ZSIC) - Zambia State Insurance Corporation Company (ZSIC)

COPPERBELT INVESTMENT SUMMIT AND EXPO 2025

OVERVIEW:

The Zambia State Insurance Corporation (ZSIC) played a key role at the Copperbelt Investment Summit & Expo 2025, contributing to critical discussions on risk management, insurance innovation, and financial security within Zambia’s evolving green and digital economy.

STRATEGIC CONTRIBUTION:

Zambia State Insurance Corporation HQ’s participation underscored the importance of insurance as a cornerstone of investment sustainability, particularly in high-value sectors such as
Mining, Energy, Infrastructure and SME development.

Their insights highlighted how robust insurance frameworks de-risk investments and enhance investor confidence.

KEY FOCUS AREAS OF THE PRESENTATION:

Risk Mitigation in Mining & Energy Projects, emphasizing tailored insurance solutions for large-scale industrial operations, insurance for Renewable Energy Investments, Supporting solar, hydro and emerging clean energy projects and SME Insurance Solutions, Enhancing financial protection for small and medium enterprises.

Another item was digital Transformation in Insurance, leveraging technology to improve access, efficiency and service delivery.

ZSIC Life presence impacted strengthened dialogue between insurers, investors and policymakers, Positioning their brand as a key enabler of secure and sustainable investment. It also enhanced awareness of insurance solutions in emerging sectors, supported the broader agenda of financial inclusion and economic resilience.

EXHIBITION AND ENGAGEMENTS:

ZSIC actively engaged stakeholders through:

Showcasing its range of insurance products and services.
Direct interaction with businesses and potential clients.
Building partnerships within the mining, energy and SME ecosystems.

11/04/2026

8. Conclusion
The presentation by Nachilala Nkombo provided a compelling case for investing in rural infrastructure as a pathway to economic and social development. Through the work of Bridges to Prosperity, it is evident that small, targeted interventions—like footbridges—can significantly improve quality of life and unlock opportunities for millions of people.

11/04/2026

D. Partnership with Governments
Nachilala Nkombo discussed the importance of aligning with national development priorities. Bridges to Prosperity collaborates with governments to:
• Identify critical locations
• Scale infrastructure solutions
• Integrate bridges into national planning frameworks
This partnership model increases long-term impact and scalability.
E. Data-Driven Impact
The organization uses data and research to measure outcomes and improve efficiency.
Examples of measured outcomes:
• Increased school attendance rates
• Reduced travel time to essential services
• Growth in agricultural productivity
• Economic upliftment in connected communities
4. Case Studies and Examples
The presentation included real-life examples of communities that benefited from bridge construction. These illustrated:
• Children previously missing school during rainy seasons now attending consistently
• Farmers doubling income due to reliable market access
• Pregnant women accessing clinics safely
These stories reinforced the tangible, human impact of infrastructure.
5. Challenges Highlighted
Despite successes, several challenges were noted:
• Funding constraints
• Geographic and environmental difficulties
• Maintenance and long-term sustainability
• Scaling operations to reach more communities
6. Strategic Vision
Nachilala Nkombo outlined a forward-looking vision:
• Expanding bridge construction across underserved regions
• Strengthening partnerships with African governments
• Increasing local capacity building
• Leveraging innovation and technology for mapping and planning
7. Key Takeaways
• Rural isolation is a major barrier to development
• Simple infrastructure solutions can have outsized impacts
• Community involvement is critical for sustainability
• Partnerships and data are essential for scaling impact.

11/04/2026

PRESENTATION HIGHLIGHT:

Presentation by Nachilala Benard Chilala Nkombo from Bridges to Prosperity.

1. Introduction
The presentation delivered by Nachilala Nkombo, a prominent development leader, provided an in-depth overview of the work, vision, and impact of Bridges to Prosperity (B2P). The session focused on how rural infrastructure—specifically pedestrian bridges—can transform isolated communities by improving access to essential services and economic opportunities.

2. Background of Bridges to Prosperity
Bridges to Prosperity is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to ending rural isolation. The organization partners with governments and local communities to construct safe, durable footbridges over rivers that often become impassable during rainy seasons.

Key objectives:
• Improve rural connectivity
• Enhance access to healthcare, education, and markets
• Promote long-term economic development
• Support governments in achieving infrastructure goals.

3. Key Themes from the Presentation
A. The Challenge of Rural Isolation
Nachilala Nkombo emphasized that millions of people in rural areas—especially in sub-Saharan Africa—are cut off from essential services due to lack of infrastructure. Seasonal rivers often prevent:
• Children from attending school
• Farmers from accessing markets
• Patients from reaching healthcare facilities
This isolation perpetuates poverty and inequality.
B. The Role of Rural Infrastructure
The presentation highlighted that infrastructure is not just about roads and highways; even simple pedestrian bridges can have transformative impacts.
Impacts of bridge construction:
• Year-round access to schools → improved education outcomes
• Increased healthcare access → reduced mortality rates
• Market connectivity → higher household incomes
• Strengthened social integration.

🧵

18/03/2026

A CALL FOR SMEs TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE 24HRS ECONOMY.

We have received this beautiful news with excitement and gratitude. We have hoped that it would come to fruition.

Our loud call goes to the Small and Medium Enterprises in our County to take a deliberate move in ensuring that we all take advantage of this piece of economical milestone. We have seen Countries who have implemented this develop and expand their economies.

Let's look at it in-depth;

1. Increased Employment Opportunities

Operating businesses in shifts creates more jobs across sectors such as manufacturing, retail, transport, healthcare, and security. This can help reduce unemployment, especially among youth.

2. Higher Productivity and Output

Industries like mining, manufacturing, and agro-processing can maximize production by running continuously, increasing overall economic output and efficiency.

3. Boost to SMEs and Informal Sector

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs), including traders, food vendors, and service providers, can generate more income by operating beyond traditional hours, especially in urban areas like Lusaka and the Copperbelt.

4. Improved Service Delivery

Essential services such as healthcare, transport, banking, and emergency services become more accessible, improving quality of life and economic convenience.

5. Attraction of Investment

A 24-hour economy signals a dynamic and efficient business environment, which can attract both local and foreign investors looking for high productivity markets.

6. Growth of Night-Time Economy

Sectors such as hospitality, tourism, entertainment, and retail can expand significantly, increasing revenue streams and tax collection.

7. Better Utilization of Infrastructure

Existing infrastructure (roads, factories, offices) is used more efficiently when operations are spread across 24 hours instead of being concentrated in daytime.

Challenges of a 24-Hour Economy in Zambia
1. Energy Supply Constraints

A reliable and affordable electricity supply is critical. Zambia has experienced power shortages, and without stable energy, continuous operations would be difficult.

2. Security Concerns

Operating at night increases risks related to crime and safety. This requires stronger policing, surveillance systems, and community safety measures.

3. Labour and Social Impacts

Night shifts can affect workers’ health, family life, and productivity if not well managed. Labour laws and worker protections would need strengthening.

4. Transport and Infrastructure Limitations

Public transport systems in many areas are not designed for 24-hour operations, which could limit worker mobility and increase costs.

5. High Operational Costs

Businesses may face increased costs due to lighting, security, staffing, and logistics, which could discourage participation without incentives.

6. Regulatory and Policy Gaps

A shift to a 24-hour economy would require supportive policies, including tax incentives, labour regulations, and urban planning frameworks.

7. Cultural and Behavioral Factors

Zambia’s economy and society are traditionally structured around daytime activities, so adoption may take time and require mindset shifts.

Conclusion

A 24-hour economy has the potential to significantly accelerate Zambia’s economic growth, improve employment levels, and enhance productivity. However, its success will depend on addressing key structural challenges such as energy reliability, security, infrastructure, and supportive policy frameworks.

04/03/2026

THE ROLE OF FINANCE IN THE GREEN TRANSITION:
The presentation emphasized that transitioning to a green economy requires:
• Affordable and accessible financing
• Investment in renewable energy solutions
• Modern irrigation systems
• Climate-resilient crops
• Energy-efficient technologies
Without structured financial support, farmers and SMEs cannot adapt to climate shocks or invest in sustainable growth technologies.
Natsave’s strategic role is to close this financing gap.

STRATEGIC INTERVENTIONS BY NATSAVE:
Ms. Chanda outlined several targeted interventions designed to build resilience and drive sustainability:
Climate-Smart Agriculture
• Partnering with organizations such as GED Africa
• Financing resilient crops like cassava and millet
• Providing financial literacy and farmer education
Renewable Energy Financing
• Collaborating with SARO Agro Equipment and CAMCO
• Financing solar technologies and energy-efficient solutions for farms and SMEs
SME and Entrepreneur Support
• Asset Plus and MSME loan products
• Targeted support for women and youth-led enterprises
• Financing green innovation and sustainable business models.

GOVERNMENT PARTNERSHIPS:
NATSAVE works closely with Government of the Republic of Zambia (GRZ) initiatives including:
• Social Cash Transfer (SCT)
• Sustainable Agriculture Financing Facility (SAFF)
• Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP)
• Food Reserve Agency (FRA)
• Food Security Pack
The Bank also provides salary-backed and savings products to civil servants, ensuring stable and structured financial access.

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION & FINANCIAL INCLUSION:
Digital innovation is central to NATSAVE’s green financing strategy.
The Bank leverages:
• Mobile network operator (MNO) partnerships to expand mobile money services
• Agent banking to reduce travel distances and carbon footprint
• Digital platforms to reduce paper usage
• Financial literacy programs for rural and urban communities
This digital ecosystem enhances efficiency, improves access,

04/03/2026

PRESENTATION HIGHLIGHT

At the Copperbelt Investment Summit & Expo 2025, Mr. Justine S. Chanda, Marketing Research Manager a Natsave Bank delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the Bank’s strategic role in financing Zambia’s transition to a green and climate-resilient economy.

The presentation focused on the intersection of financial inclusion, climate adaptation, digital innovation, and sustainable development, positioning Natsave as a key enabler of inclusive green growth.

INSTITUTIONAL OVERVIEW:
NATSAVE Bank is:
• 100% Government-owned
• Operating 38 branches nationwide
• Managing 43 ATMs
• Supporting 230 bank agents
• Running 3 money windows

VISION:
Delivering Financial Inclusion
MISSION:
To provide innovative, convenient, and affordable financially inclusive services to customers across Zambia.

The Bank’s extensive national footprint and inclusive mandate position it strategically to support rural communities, SMEs and vulnerable populations in the green transition.
Understanding Zambia’s Climate Challenge
Mr. Chanda highlighted the urgent climate realities facing Zambia:
• The economy is heavily dependent on agriculture and natural resources.
• Agricultural losses from droughts and floods are estimated at USD 300 million annually (World Bank, 2023).
• During the 2024/2025 season, over 1 million smallholder farmers were affected by prolonged dry spells and erratic rainfall.
• Hydropower — supplying over 80% of Zambia’s electricity — has experienced generation declines of nearly 40% during severe droughts (ZESCO & ERB reports).

These factors underscore the vulnerability of rural communities and SMEs, reinforcing the need for affordable and targeted climate finance.

03/03/2026

The disconnect between the financial institutions and the SMEs is real. There must be deliberate policies by the regulator (BOZ) in the short term but most importantly, create a framework that will assist the SME sector with skills, tools and requisite knowledge that will speak to low risk requirements for the long term.

We have advocated for this through commercial banks and micro financial institutions from our data based researches that we have done.

The gap should be bridged if we are going to achieve any meaningful results that will help small businesses scale up.

Investlane Ventures Limited

29/04/2026

20/04/2026

20/04/2026

11/04/2026

11/04/2026

11/04/2026

18/03/2026

04/03/2026

04/03/2026

03/03/2026

Address

Website

Alerts

Shortcuts

Share

Category