The Government of Zambia, in partnership with Kansanshi Mining Plc and First Quantum Minerals (FQM), officially launched the first-ever Pitch Day under the Kansanshi Mining Accelerator Programme, a groundbreaking initiative designed to support Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and strengthen Zambia’s economic ecosystem.
The event, held at the Solwezi Royal Hotel, offered entrepreneurs a platform to showcase innovative business ideas to investors, financial institutions, and industry leaders, creating pathways for funding, mentorship, and strategic partnerships.
MSMEs: The Backbone of Zambia’s Economy
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Eng. Elias Mubanga, MP, Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, emphasized the pivotal role MSMEs play in job creation, innovation, and socio-economic transformation.
“Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises, together with cooperatives, are the backbone of our economy,” Minister Mubanga said. “Yet many entrepreneurs face challenges, including limited access to financing, regulatory hurdles, and barriers to market entry.”
He highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting MSMEs through initiatives such as the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC), while stressing the importance of public-private partnerships to strengthen the financing ecosystem.
Accelerating Growth Through Tailored Support
The Kansanshi Mining Accelerator Programme provides MSMEs with comprehensive support, including:
- Business planning and financial management
- Product development, marketing, and branding
- Market linkages and access to finance
By combining technical guidance with investment opportunities, the initiative aims to prepare Zambian enterprises to participate effectively in the mining value chain and other sectors, fostering sustainable business growth.
“This integrated approach reflects a deep understanding of what it takes to grow sustainable enterprises,” Minister Mubanga noted.
Pitch Day: Connecting Entrepreneurs with Investors
During the event, participants pitched their ideas directly to financiers, gaining feedback, networking opportunities, and potential partnerships. Minister Mubanga encouraged investors, financial institutions, and larger industry players to provide support through corporate social responsibility programs or bridging finance, helping MSMEs overcome start-up costs and accelerate growth.
“The real challenge is not the absence of money but the need for well-developed ideas presented in a way that inspires confidence among financiers,” he said.
The Minister commended Kansanshi Mining Plc and First Quantum Minerals for their leadership in promoting local content and entrepreneurship, reaffirming the government’s commitment to building an inclusive, innovation-driven economy.
“Together, we can create sustainable opportunities, strengthen local enterprises, and drive economic growth across Zambia,” Minister Mubanga concluded, officially kicking off the Pitch Day in a spirit of partnership, mentorship, and collaboration.
