Standard Chartered Donates K500,000 to Support Invest Zambia Conference

By Francis Maingaila 

Lusaka, Zambia24, July 8, 2025 — Standard Chartered Bank Zambia has pledged K500,000 towards the upcoming Invest Zambia International Conference, set to take place from July 16 to 18, 2025, at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka.

The donation was officially announced by San Zulu, Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bank Zambia, during a handover ceremony attended by officials from the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), business leaders, and members of the diplomatic and media community.

Zulu described the conference as more than a high-level investment event, calling it a “catalyst” for Zambia’s economic transformation and a platform to unlock the country’s untapped investment potential. 

He said the initiative aligns with the bank’s commitment to key sectors such as mining, agriculture, energy, and manufacturing.

“This partnership is rooted in a shared purpose and vision. It reflects our belief in Zambia’s potential. Our contribution is not just financial support—it’s an endorsement of Zambia as a premier investment destination,” Zulu said.

Zulu emphasized that promoting Zambia should not be limited to major events and official delegations but must extend to how citizens portray the country in everyday life—including on social media and in casual conversations both at home and abroad.

“Marketing a nation is not confined to glossy brochures or grand events. It is reflected in our daily conduct, our speech, our culture, and even how we choose to ‘wash our laundry’ in the public eye,” he said, urging all citizens to act as ambassadors of the country's promise and potential.

He further praised the Zambia Development Agency for taking the lead in organizing the conference and reiterated the bank’s long-term commitment to Zambia’s prosperity.

“Investors are not only attracted to numbers—they’re drawn to people, stories, and belief. Zambia must tell its story with confidence and consistency,” he added.

Meanwhile, ZDA Chief Executive Officer Albert Halwampa has commended President Hakainde Hichilema for his unwavering focus on investment promotion, describing him as “the most committed head of state to economic transformation the country has ever seen.”

Speaking ahead of the high-level conference, Halwampa said Zambia is rebranding itself as a top-tier investment destination across key sectors such as energy, agriculture, and culture.

“We’ve never had a President so focused on attracting and sustaining investment for the long-term benefit of the country,” he said.

“This government is now committed to promoting Zambia in ways never seen before.”

Halwampa also thanked Standard Chartered Bank for its support beyond financial backing, particularly for sponsoring cultural performances during the conference.

“This is a very important gesture. Culture is not just entertainment—it’s a powerful tool for national branding and economic engagement,” he said.

The July 16 conference, which starts at 13:00 hours, is expected to bring together stakeholders from underserved sectors, as well as international and regional investors.

 According to Halwampa, the event is part of a broader effort by the government and the ZDA to correct past economic missteps and foster more inclusive growth.

“A lot of customers and stakeholders operate in sectors that have historically been neglected. We are here to change that narrative,” he said.

Halwampa further stated that the ZDA has been working in close collaboration with line ministries and private sector partners to position Zambia as a hub for sustainable and equitable growth.

“The Invest Zambia Conference is another strategic milestone in our mission to attract quality investment that benefits not just a few, but the broader Zambian economy,” he said