The launch of Growth Investment Partners Zambia (GIP) marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which are widely recognized as the backbone of Zambia’s economy. This new platform aligns closely with the national growth agenda, aiming to unlock the vast potential of SMEs across the country.
SMEs contribute approximately 70% of Zambia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provide over 80% of employment. Despite their critical role, many SMEs continue to struggle with limited access to affordable capital, which hampers their growth and capacity to generate more jobs.
In response to these challenges, the Zambian government established the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises to offer focused support, promote inclusive economic growth, encourage innovation, and foster job creation.
Growth Investment Partners Zambia, supported by anchor commitments from prominent investors such as British International Investment (BII), the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA), and Swedfund, is poised to address these issues by providing SMEs with vital financial resources and business support.
The initiative was launched during a period described as a “happy convergence” of economic conditions—favourable exchange rates, lower inflation, and declining interest rates—that collectively indicate promising prospects for sustainable economic growth in Zambia.
The launch reflects the government’s continued commitment to empowering SMEs to innovate, expand, and contribute meaningfully to Zambia’s broader development goals. By bringing together government entities, investors, and entrepreneurs, Growth Investment Partners Zambia aims to strengthen the SME sector, create jobs, and drive inclusive economic progress benefiting all citizens.