……..to help improve the living standards of the people
President Hakainde Hichilema says there is need for Africa to develop an action plan to do business together and connect its countries.
Speaking during the 9th African Agribusiness Incubation Conference and Expo, President Hichilema said African countries need to connect with each other to ensure the continent does not externalize losses.
Represented by Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister, Chipoka Mulenga, Mr. Hichilema, said African countries can improve the living standards of their people if they learn to trade within themselves.
He has however called on universities to come up with innovations that will transform the African continent.
Mr. Hichilema noted that Africa loses a lot of money to the outside world, hence the need for monetary policy to return capital.
The President has, meanwhile, however, reaffirmed government’s commitment towards fostering growth for Small and Medium Enterprenures – SMEs
And speaking earlier, Professor Alex Ariho, Chief Executive Officer, African Agribusiness Incubators Network AAIN said networking within African countries is key in building economies, through jobs and employment creation in Africa.
Professor Aliho has added that jobs and employment can only be created through concerted efforts from all African member states.
He said that policy is key if Africa is to develop as it creates conducive environment for trade, innovation and enterpreneurship in the African region.
The 9th African Agribusiness Incubation Conference and Expo has kicked off in Lusaka under the theme “Enhancing Entrepreneurship, Education, and Innovative Skills for Employment in Africa.”
Organized by the African Agribusiness Incubators Network (AAIN) under the African Union’s agribusiness incubation program, the event spans all 55 African countries.
Musika is the national partner for AAICE 2024.