GOVERNMENT TO INTRODUCE E-COUNCIL SYSTEM TO STREAMLINE LOCAL AUTHORITY LICENSING PROCESSES
The Business Regulatory Review Agency (BRRA) says government is advancing reforms aimed at simplifying business licensing processes through the introduction of an Electronic Single Licensing System, known as E-Council.
BRRA Executive Director Mrs. Sharon Sichilongo notes that businesses in Zambia continue to face challenges such as multiple permits, fragmented processes, repetitive information requests, and manual systems that increase the cost and time of doing business, particularly for MSMEs.
Speaking during a stakeholder consultative meeting held on 29th May 2026 at the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry conference room.
Mrs. Sichilongo explaines that the proposed E-Council system will consolidate and digitise licensing services under local authorities into a single integrated platform, aimed at improving efficiency and service delivery.
She says the system is expected to reduce processing timelines, minimise physical visits by businesses, improve transparency and accountability, and strengthen revenue administration.
BRRA says it will facilitate coordination of the implementation of the initiative in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, with support from the European Union under a technical assistance project aimed at improving the regulatory environment for business and investment in Zambia.
By Niza Vomo
