The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Zambia’s economic transformation through supplier development initiatives after joining government representatives, private sector leaders, academia and industry stakeholders in celebrating the graduation of the second cohort of Supplier Development Programme (SDP) consultants in Kitwe. The graduation ceremony marked an important milestone in efforts to strengthen local businesses and prepare them to participate more effectively in strategic economic sectors. The programme focuses on developing a skilled network of consultants who can help enterprises improve their competitiveness, meet industry requirements and access new market opportunities. As Zambia continues pursuing economic growth and industrialisation, building stronger local suppliers has become a key priority. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, development partners and businesses in creating an inclusive economy where local enterprises can thrive.
Speaking during the Supplier Development Accreditation Training Closing Ceremony and Award of Certificates, Director of the Geological Survey Department Mr Gerald Mwila delivered remarks on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, Dr Hapenga M. Kabeta. Dr Kabeta said it was encouraging to see programmes such as the Supplier Development Programme providing practical solutions by creating a pool of consultants capable of supporting enterprises to improve their capabilities. He explained that as Zambia works towards increasing annual copper production to three million metric tonnes by 2031, local businesses must be prepared to supply the goods and services required by a growing mining sector. The expansion of the mining industry presents significant opportunities for Zambian companies, but businesses need the necessary skills, systems and capacity to compete effectively. Supplier development therefore plays an important role in ensuring that economic growth benefits local enterprises and communities.
UNDP Zambia Resident Representative Dr James Wakiaga described the Supplier Development Programme as a critical tool for strengthening local enterprises, improving competitiveness and increasing the participation of Zambian businesses in strategic value chains. He noted that the programme provides a practical pathway for companies to develop the capabilities required to compete in demanding markets while contributing to job creation and national economic growth. Dr Wakiaga commended the Government of the Republic of Zambia through the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development for creating an environment that encourages greater participation of local businesses in mining supply chains. He said increased demand for structured supplier development programmes demonstrates the importance of preparing enterprises to take advantage of emerging opportunities. The UNDP continues to support initiatives that promote inclusive growth and help businesses become more competitive in key sectors of the economy.
The UNDP further reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Government of Zambia through the rollout of the UNDP Supplier Development Methodology as a national framework for supplier development initiatives. The methodology is designed to promote standardisation, quality assurance, consistency and sustainability across supplier development programmes in different sectors. By establishing a structured approach, the initiative aims to ensure that local businesses receive the support they need to improve performance and meet industry standards. This approach is expected to strengthen relationships between large companies and local suppliers while encouraging more businesses to participate in national and regional value chains. The programme supports Zambia’s broader economic objectives by promoting industrialisation, entrepreneurship and increased local participation in major industries.
Mopani Copper Mines Chief Executive Officer Eng. Charles Sakanya highlighted the positive impact of the Supplier Development Programme on local suppliers and the company’s operations. He explained that Mopani has recorded increased orders from suppliers participating in the programme and has observed a 35 percent improvement in productivity and job creation across the pilot initiative. The company has fully adopted and integrated the Supplier Development Programme into its operations as part of its commitment to promoting local content development. Eng. Sakanya noted that Mopani introduced the initiative before local content regulations came into effect in 2025, demonstrating the company’s leadership in supporting Zambian businesses. Through the programme, 15 supplier development beneficiaries were given opportunities to participate in tenders, resulting in successful orders worth more than K20 million.
The private sector’s role in supplier development was also highlighted through remarks from Shoprite Zambia General Manager Mr Charles Bota. He explained that the lessons from the Supplier Development Programme demonstrate the value of structured support in preparing local businesses to participate effectively in modern retail value chains. Mr Bota shared that while Shoprite Zambia imported almost 95 percent of the products it sold 31 years ago, the company now sources 92 percent of its products locally. He emphasised that the company’s commitment goes beyond purchasing from local suppliers and includes helping them develop and grow their businesses. This approach demonstrates how large companies can contribute to economic development by creating opportunities for local enterprises and supporting their long-term sustainability.
Academic institutions are also playing an important role in strengthening supplier development through research, training and knowledge creation. Copperbelt University Acting Vice Chancellor Professor Bernard Hang’ombe said the institution remains committed to institutionalising the Supplier Development Programme beyond its pilot phase. He explained that the university will continue generating evidence-based research that supports policy development, improves local content implementation and contributes to national development goals. The partnership between academia, government and industry provides an opportunity to develop solutions based on research and practical experience. Professor Hang’ombe reaffirmed the university’s commitment to expanding collaboration with stakeholders in pursuit of inclusive and sustainable development.
Addressing the newly graduated consultants, Dr Wakiaga congratulated participants for successfully completing the programme and encouraged them to become ambassadors of supplier development. He urged the graduates to use their skills and knowledge to support small and medium enterprises in improving competitiveness, strengthening operations and accessing new business opportunities. The consultants are expected to play a key role in helping local companies understand market requirements and build stronger relationships with major industries. Their expertise will contribute to expanding the capacity of Zambian businesses to compete in sectors such as mining, manufacturing and retail. The success of the graduates will be measured by their ability to help enterprises transform challenges into opportunities for growth.
The Supplier Development Programme represents an important step towards achieving Zambia’s goals of economic diversification, industrialisation, job creation and citizen economic empowerment. By developing skilled consultants and strengthening partnerships between businesses, government and institutions, the programme creates a foundation for greater local participation in key industries. The collaboration between UNDP, the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development, private sector companies and academic institutions demonstrates the value of coordinated efforts in building a stronger economy. As Zambia continues expanding its mining sector and other industries, supplier development will remain essential in ensuring that local businesses are ready to participate and benefit. The graduation of the second cohort of SDP consultants marks continued progress towards a more inclusive economy driven by capable Zambian enterprises.