The Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry held a formal farewell engagement on Friday to honour the immediate former Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Hon. Chipoka Mulenga MP, following the end of his tenure. The event brought together senior officials, permanent secretaries, and staff members who reflected on the leadership period and its impact on the Ministry’s direction. The gathering focused on appreciation, continuity, and commitment to Zambia’s broader economic goals. It also provided a platform to acknowledge the contributions made during his time in office. The atmosphere combined reflection with a clear focus on the future of industrialisation and trade development in Zambia.
Hon. Chipoka Mulenga MP expressed gratitude for the support he received from the Ministry throughout his service. He thanked staff members for their cooperation and dedication in implementing national trade and industrial policies. He emphasized the importance of unity within the Ministry, stating that teamwork remains essential for progress. He also encouraged officers to continue working together to advance Zambia’s industrialisation agenda. His message focused on continuity and the need to maintain momentum in driving economic growth through structured collaboration and consistent policy implementation.
Permanent Secretary for Investment and Industrialisation, Mr. Crusivia C. Hichikumba, reaffirmed the Ministry’s stability and long term commitment to national development priorities. He stated that the Ministry will continue to build on the foundation established during the former Minister’s leadership. He highlighted the importance of applying lessons learned to improve service delivery and strengthen institutional performance. He also pledged that the values and strategic direction set during the tenure will remain central to ongoing programmes. His remarks underscored a commitment to consistency, accountability, and results driven governance within the industrialisation and investment sectors.
Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Trade, Mrs. Lilian S. Bwalya, also shared reflections on her experience working alongside the former Minister. She highlighted key milestones achieved during the period and acknowledged the collaborative efforts that supported progress across the Ministry. She reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that the goals and vision championed during his leadership are fully implemented. She emphasized continuity in policy execution and sustained focus on national trade development priorities. Her remarks reinforced the importance of institutional memory and teamwork in achieving long term economic objectives.
The farewell engagement concluded with a strong sense of appreciation and renewed dedication to Zambia’s economic future. Officials reflected on the importance of leadership transitions that preserve stability while encouraging progress. The Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry remains focused on strengthening industrialisation efforts and expanding trade opportunities across key sectors. The event served as both a moment of recognition and a reaffirmation of shared responsibility among public servants. It closed with a clear message that Zambia’s economic development agenda will continue to move forward through unity, discipline, and consistent implementation of national priorities.