ROLE OF TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: ZACCI PRESENTATION

This presentation was made by Mr Alexander Lawrence, President of the Lusaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). He stated that the Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZACCI) was happy to be part of the 2023 LLZ Conference and Exhibition. The transport sector plays a vital role in the economic development of the country. It is essential for facilitating both export and import trade. The transport sector is divided into four (4) main areas: air, rail, road and water transport. Zambia is an ideal transport hub for each of the various transport modes as it is surrounded by 10 countries plus one (1): including Burundi, Rwanda and South Africa. Burundi and Rwanda are easily accessible via marine transport. Marine transport also covers the eastern parts of DR Congo and western parts of Tanzania. Therefore, there is need to look at Tanganyika Marine Services to cater for markets in the Great Lakes region. Zambia possesses geographical advantage of easier access to the COMESA and SADC market than other Member States. But there is need for infrastructure development to facilitate competitive market access. Poor road infrastructure is the main challenge for transportation. Hence there is need for a lot of transportrelated interventions from authorities. There is need to upgrade and revamp the Zambian railway sector in order for businesses to compete favourably in the region. Support to firms should be considered. There is need to address and reduce the cost of transportation and delays and embark on effective and more efficient regional coordination. ZACCI commends the Government on the recent PPP arrangement for the Lusaka-Ndola Dual Carriageway. However, there is need for capacity building of public officers to address management deficiencies and road safety issues. There are several opportunities for Zambia, from being landlocked and land-linked.