November 2024 – Reflection on my recent trip to Zambia was an incredibly enriching experience, marked by meaningful engagements and invaluable opportunities to contribute to critical discussions shaping Africa’s economic future. Lusaka, with its vibrant energy and welcoming spirit, served as the perfect backdrop for these transformative encounters.
Most of all, meeting Ambassador Sheila Siwela of the US-Africa BusinessBridge was a highlight of my journey. Our discussions centered on strengthening the Bridge in Zambia and Ethiopia and business linkage between Africa and the United States, with a focus on creating pathways for sustainable investments. Ambassador Sheila’s insights reinforced the importance of fostering partnerships that are grounded in mutual benefit and long-term impact.
Additionally, I had the honor of meeting Namakau Kaingu, President of Women in Mining, whose dedication to advancing women’s participation in Africa’s mining sector was truly inspiring. Our conversations shed light on the critical role of women in mining and potential business linkage via the US Africa Business Bridge.
The pinnacle of my visit was attending the African Union 15th High-Level Private Sector Forum in Lusaka, where I had the privilege of serving as a panelist. The forum’s theme, “Accelerating Economic Integration in Africa,” underscored the urgent need for cohesive strategies to harness the continent’s full potential.
As a panelist, I contributed to discussions on two transformative frameworks:
1. The Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM): I emphasized the significance of a unified air transport market in reducing barriers to trade, fostering connectivity, and accelerating intra-African economic integration. SAATM has the potential to revolutionize the mobility of people, goods, and services across the continent, enhancing competitiveness and unlocking untapped opportunities.
2. The Protocol to the Abuja Treaty on Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence, and Right of Establishment: I underscored the critical importance of removing mobility restrictions to enable Africans to access opportunities across borders. By simplifying residency and establishment processes, we can empower individuals and businesses to contribute to the economic vibrancy of the entire continent.
The forum fostered a rich exchange of ideas, bringing together leaders from various sectors to deliberate on actionable steps toward achieving Africa’s development goals. Being part of these discussions reinforced my optimism about Africa’s future and the immense potential of collaboration among governments, the private sector, and civil society.
My experience in Zambia was not only professionally rewarding but also personally fulfilling. The warmth and hospitality of the Zambian people, especially Ambassador Sheila, coupled with the country’s commitment to advancing regional integration, left a lasting impression on me.
As I reflect on this trip, I am more committed than ever to supporting initiatives that drive Africa’s economic transformation and integration. I am grateful for the opportunity to engage with such visionary leaders and look forward to building on the connections and ideas shared during this memorable journey.


