Representing the President of the Republic of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema, Bank of Zambia Governor Denny Kalyalya officially opened the 2026 Copperbelt Agricultural, Mining, Industrial and Networking Expo, widely known as CAMINEX, on May 20, 2026. The major trade exhibition took place from May 19 to May 21, 2026, and brought together leaders from the mining, agriculture, manufacturing and financial sectors. The event focused on strengthening collaboration between industries that play a major role in Zambia’s economy. Held under the theme “Collaboration for Growth, Developing Talent, Trust and Trade,” the expo highlighted the importance of partnerships and innovation in driving economic progress. CAMINEX has continued to position itself as Zambia’s premier mining, agriculture and industrial trade expo, attracting both local and international stakeholders interested in investment and development opportunities across the country.
In his official remarks delivered on behalf of President Hichilema, Governor Kalyalya emphasized the importance of the expo’s theme and its relevance to Zambia’s current economic direction. He noted that agriculture and mining remain the backbone of the Zambian economy and continue to contribute significantly to employment creation, export earnings and national development. The President’s message stressed that mining is not only a major source of revenue for the country but also a catalyst for growth in several key sectors. Mining activities support transport, energy, manufacturing and infrastructure development while also creating opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises. The address reflected the government’s broader commitment to building a stronger and more diversified economy through collaboration between public institutions and private industry.
The CAMINEX expo also served as a platform for discussing the future of talent development and industrial expansion in Zambia. Industry leaders and policymakers used the event to explore ways of improving skills development and increasing local participation in key sectors. The theme of trust and trade was particularly important as businesses continue to seek stable and transparent partnerships in the region. Stakeholders at the expo highlighted the need for stronger cooperation between mining companies, farmers, financial institutions and technology providers. Many participants agreed that Zambia’s economic growth will depend heavily on its ability to develop skilled workers and create an environment that supports investment and entrepreneurship.
Governor Kalyalya also took part in an earlier engagement linked to CAMINEX 2026 when he delivered a keynote address at a Zanaco-sponsored Business Breakfast Meeting held at the Kitwe showgrounds. During his presentation, he spoke about Zambia’s macroeconomic environment and the progress that has been made toward stability and business confidence. He explained that the country’s economic conditions are currently supportive of long-term business planning and investment. According to the Governor, stable macroeconomic policies help businesses expand production, improve competitiveness and strengthen operations across different industries. His remarks were aimed at reassuring investors and entrepreneurs that Zambia remains committed to creating conditions that support economic growth and financial stability.
The Governor’s presentation also addressed the importance of maintaining investor confidence in a rapidly changing global economy. He pointed out that macroeconomic stability allows businesses to make informed decisions regarding expansion, employment and capital investment. Stable inflation, improved policy coordination and financial sector resilience were among the factors highlighted during the business breakfast. Kalyalya’s message aligned with the government’s broader efforts to attract more investment into mining, agriculture and manufacturing. By presenting a stable economic outlook, the Bank of Zambia hopes to encourage both domestic and international businesses to increase participation in Zambia’s growing economy.
CAMINEX 2026 once again demonstrated the central role that mining and agriculture continue to play in Zambia’s development strategy. The expo created opportunities for networking, trade discussions and partnerships that could contribute to future industrial growth. It also reinforced the importance of collaboration between government, financial institutions and the private sector in creating sustainable economic progress. President Hichilema’s message, delivered through Governor Kalyalya, reflected confidence in Zambia’s economic direction and its potential for long-term growth. With continued investment in talent development, industrial expansion and macroeconomic stability, Zambia aims to strengthen its position as one of the region’s key economic and trade hubs.