Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Elias Mubanga says entrepreneurs play a crucial role in driving the economic development narrative of the country.

Speaking in South Africa ahead of the Global Entrepreneurship Congress GEC+ Africa 2024, Mr Mubanga said the conference provides a platform that showcases the significant progress the country has made in producing some of the most innovative and successful entrepreneurs.

He stated that the Government has placed a high premium on ensuring a conducive business environment as it is key to the economic growth of the country by helping emerging entrepreneurs to thrive and grow their businesses and contribute to job creation.

Mr Mubanga noted that the Congress will give an opportunity for Africa to showcase its talents, skills, and business excellence to the global community.

“It is for this reason that President Hakainde Hichilema emphasizes the need to promote small and medium enterprise, creating job opportunities, and establishing market linkages,” he added.

 Mr Mubanga is in Cape Town at the invitation of his South African counterpart, Ms Stella Ndabeni-Abrahams and is among 43 African leaders who are attending Congress.

He is expected to give a keynote speech and hold several bilateral meetings with other stakeholders. 

GEC+ Africa, an initiative of Global Entrepreneurship Network, connects entrepreneurs and leaders from more than 50 African nations to the best global resources and investor network, to create platforms that will drive collaborative ecosystems and advocate for policies that will empower sustainable growth for SMMEs across Africa.

This is according to a statement issued to ZANIS by First Secretary Press and Public Relations at the Zambia High Commission in South Africa, Tamara Nyirenda.