Economic zone turns Zambia’s Chibombo into thriving trade hub

LUSAKA, Oct. 31 (Xinhua) — Located in central Zambia, Chibombo district has long been an agricultural community, with most residents relying on farming and small-scale trading for their livelihood.
However, the establishment of the Zambia Jiangxi Multi-Facility Economic Zone in 2018 has sparked a transformation, turning Chibombo into a bustling economic hub that provides new opportunities for local traders and attracts potential investors.
Managed by Jiangxi United Industrial Investment Limited, the economic zone is situated along the Great North Road, offering easy accessibility and enhancing Chibombo’s appeal as an investment destination.
To date, the economic zone has attracted 70 million U.S. dollars in investment and secured 11 projects involving both Chinese and local investors. “Currently, we have four fully operational companies in the zone, providing employment for 280 local people,” said Ye Ji, managing director of the Zambia Jiangxi Multi-Facility Economic Zone. He added that as more investors join, additional jobs will be created for locals.
The development of the economic zone has also opened up fresh market opportunities for small-scale traders, enabling them to expand their businesses and increase their profits.
“Before the economic zone was set up, we struggled to make ends meet. But now, with more people and increased foot traffic, our businesses are thriving. I am now able to make three times more profit,” said Lydia Mboloma, 29, a fruit and vegetable vendor in Chibombo.
Mwape Mulenga, 35, another Chibombo resident who sells fresh maize at a nearby roadside market, said that the district is now brimming with opportunities for local entrepreneurs. “I used to sell only 20 fresh maize cobs a day. Now, I sell at least 50 daily, as workers from the economic zone often stop by to buy from me,” she said.
Ye said that the economic zone is committed not only to contributing to the local industrial value chain but also to supporting nearby communities through corporate social responsibility initiatives.
“We plan to invest in various social programs in Chibombo district. Together, we will make Chibombo a prosperous district in Zambia,” Ye said. ■