The North-Western Provincial Administration this morning held a productive engagement with a delegation from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) aimed at strengthening financial literacy and capital market awareness among young people. The meeting marked an important step in preparations for the 2026 Capital Markets Provincial Debate scheduled for 5 June 2026 at St Kizito Parish in Solwezi District. The SEC team was led by Financial Inclusion and Education Officer Mr. Jacob Likonge, who outlined the objectives of the upcoming programme. The engagement brought together key stakeholders committed to improving understanding of savings, investment, and economic development. It also highlighted the growing focus on financial education as a tool for empowering communities in the province.
The 2026 Capital Markets Provincial Debate is expected to feature competitive sessions involving students and institutions from across North-Western Province. Participants will debate key topics linked to capital markets, responsible saving, investment opportunities, and broader economic development issues. The programme is designed to encourage critical thinking and build awareness of how financial systems operate in Zambia. It also aims to develop communication, research, and analytical skills among young participants. Through structured debate, students are expected to gain practical knowledge that can support future financial decision making.
Speaking during the engagement, North-Western Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Mr. Luckson Mulumbi emphasized the importance of expanding financial literacy among young people in the province. He noted that understanding capital markets is essential for preparing students to participate effectively in the economy. He explained that initiatives such as the provincial debate help bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world financial systems. He further highlighted that improved financial awareness can contribute to better savings culture and investment habits among young people. His remarks underscored the provincial administration’s commitment to supporting educational programmes that promote economic empowerment.
Mr. Mulumbi also called for stronger collaboration between the Securities and Exchange Commission and other key stakeholders, including the North-Western Chamber of Commerce and Industry. He stressed that such partnerships are important for expanding financial education beyond schools and reaching broader segments of society. He specifically urged that Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) should be included in awareness programmes, as they play a critical role in local economic development. By involving SMEs, he said, more people would gain access to knowledge about investment opportunities and financial planning. This inclusive approach is expected to strengthen economic participation at different levels of the province.
The Deputy Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the Provincial Administration’s commitment to supporting the successful execution of the financial literacy awareness programme. He assured the SEC team that government structures in the province would provide the necessary support to ensure smooth implementation of the debate activities. He also emphasized the importance of continuity in financial education initiatives to ensure long-term impact. His remarks reflected the administration’s recognition of financial literacy as a key driver of sustainable development. The collaboration is expected to enhance coordination between government and financial regulators in delivering impactful programmes.
The Securities and Exchange Commission of Zambia, which is mandated to regulate and develop capital markets in the country, continues to play a key role in promoting investor education and financial literacy. Through initiatives such as the provincial capital markets debates, SEC aims to equip young people with knowledge that can help them make informed financial decisions. The 2026 provincial debates will also serve as a platform for identifying talent and encouraging youth participation in economic discussions. Winners from provincial competitions will advance to a national debate where participants from all provinces will compete. This structure is designed to promote nationwide engagement in financial education.
The upcoming debate in Solwezi is expected to attract strong participation from schools and institutions across North-Western Province. Organisers believe the programme will contribute significantly to improving understanding of financial systems among young people. By linking education with practical economic topics, the initiative seeks to prepare a generation that is more financially aware and economically active. The collaboration between SEC and the provincial administration reflects a shared commitment to empowering communities through knowledge. As preparations continue, expectations remain high that the 2026 Capital Markets Provincial Debate will deliver meaningful impact and strengthen financial literacy across the province.