Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema is expected to travel to Harare, Zimbabwe, to attend the 25th COMESA Summit of Heads of State and Government scheduled for October 22, 2026.
The summit will be hosted by Zimbabwean President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa under the theme, “One Market, One Future: Advancing Inclusive Industrialization, Investment and Regional Integration in COMESA.”
In a statement, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Mulamba Haimbe says President Hichilema’s participation underscores Zambia’s commitment to regional economic integration and the Grow Zambia Agenda, which seeks to promote economic growth, expand trade, attract investment and create opportunities for businesses and citizens.
Mr. Haimbe says the summit will provide a platform for Zambia to advance its economic interests by promoting the removal of trade barriers, strengthening regional value chains and enhancing connectivity.
He says President Hichilema will engage fellow leaders on practical measures to deepen regional integration, promote inclusive industrialisation and unlock the economic potential of COMESA member states.
These efforts are expected to expand markets for Zambian goods and services, increase value addition, enhance competitiveness and create more opportunities for local enterprises in line with the Grow Zambia Agenda.
On the sidelines of the summit, President Hichilema is expected to hold bilateral meetings with other regional leaders to discuss issues of mutual interest, including strengthening cooperation, expanding trade and investment, and advancing Zambia’s development priorities.
The summit will also oversee the transfer of instruments of power from the outgoing Chairperson of the COMESA Authority, Kenyan President Dr. William Samoei Ruto, to his successor, Zimbabwean President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, who will host the 25th summit.
By Darius Choonya
