Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have been recognised as a powerful force behind Zambia’s economic growth, employment creation, and long-term sustainable development during the 2026 United Nations MSME Day celebrations. Speaking at the event, Dr. James Wakiaga, Resident Representative, emphasized that MSMEs may be small in size but carry enormous influence in shaping national economies. His remarks highlighted the critical role these enterprises play in supporting livelihoods and strengthening economic resilience across communities. The celebration brought attention to the importance of supporting entrepreneurship as a pathway to inclusive growth. It also reinforced the need for stronger partnerships to unlock the full potential of Zambia’s small business sector.
Dr. Wakiaga stated that MSMEs remain the backbone of Zambia’s economy due to their widespread contribution to job creation and income generation. He explained that these enterprises operate across multiple sectors, including agriculture, trade, manufacturing, and services, making them essential to economic diversification. He further noted that MSMEs provide opportunities for innovation and allow individuals to turn ideas into viable businesses. Their flexibility enables them to adapt quickly to changing market conditions, which strengthens overall economic stability. He emphasized that supporting MSMEs is not optional but necessary for sustainable national development.
The Resident Representative also highlighted the importance of collaboration between key institutions in strengthening the MSME ecosystem. He acknowledged the efforts of the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development in promoting policies that support entrepreneurs. He also pointed to partnerships with organizations such as the Mastercard Foundation, which continue to provide resources and capacity-building support for small businesses. These collaborations are aimed at improving access to finance, markets, and skills development for entrepreneurs across Zambia. He noted that coordinated support systems are essential for building a more inclusive and resilient economy.
Dr. Wakiaga stressed that MSMEs play a central role in addressing unemployment challenges, particularly among young people. He explained that small businesses are often the first entry point into the labour market for many individuals. By creating self-employment opportunities, MSMEs reduce dependence on formal job markets that may not be able to absorb the growing workforce. He added that empowering entrepreneurs leads to stronger communities and more stable household incomes. This, in turn, contributes directly to poverty reduction and improved living standards.
He further pointed out that sustainable development cannot be achieved without strong participation from the MSME sector. He explained that small businesses are key contributors to innovation and local production, which reduces reliance on imports. Their role in promoting environmentally conscious practices and community-based solutions also supports broader sustainability goals. He emphasized that when MSMEs are well-supported, they become engines of both economic and social transformation. This makes them essential partners in achieving long-term development objectives aligned with national and global targets.
The 2026 UN MSME Day celebrations served as a platform to reaffirm commitment toward building a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem in Zambia. Stakeholders present at the event highlighted the need to improve access to finance, training, and digital tools for small businesses. They also emphasized the importance of creating a policy environment that encourages growth and innovation. The focus remains on ensuring that MSMEs can operate in a stable and supportive environment that allows them to expand and compete effectively. Strengthening these foundations is seen as critical to unlocking Zambia’s full economic potential.
The recognition of MSMEs as the backbone of Zambia’s economy reflects a growing understanding of their role in national development. Their contribution extends beyond business activity to include job creation, innovation, and community empowerment. With continued support from government, development partners, and private sector institutions, MSMEs are expected to play an even greater role in shaping Zambia’s economic future. The message from the 2026 UN MSME Day celebrations underscores the importance of investing in small businesses as a pathway to inclusive and sustainable growth.