Zambia to advance it’s grow agenda at UNGA

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe, has arrived in New York to represent President Hakainde Hichilema at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81). Central to Zambia’s participation is the advancement of the Grow…

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe, has arrived in New York to represent President Hakainde Hichilema at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81).

Central to Zambia’s participation is the advancement of the Grow Zambia Agenda, aimed at mobilising technical assistance, development finance, and strategic investment.

The agenda also seeks to align UN programmes with national priorities, secure support for a National Architecture for Peace and strengthen Zambia’s diplomatic influence, including its candidature for election to the Human Rights Council (HRC) for the 2027-2029 term.

According to a statement Issued to  the media in Lusaka, by Zambia’s First Secretary for Press and Public Relations to the UN, Namatama Njekwa, Mr Haimbe is expected to deliver Zambia’s National Statement on behalf of President Hichilema during the High-Level General Debate on September 28.

She highlighted that the Assembly, which runs from September 22 to 28 under the theme “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All”, provides Zambia with an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to peace, democracy and stability following the recent General Elections.

Ms Njekwa noted that Mr Haimbe will reaffirm Zambia’s commitment to constitutionalism, the rule of law, fundamental freedoms and the protection of human rights, underscoring the country’s bid for the HRC as a reflection of these values.

She explained that the Zambian delegation which includes the Minister of Health, Roma Chilengi and other senior government officials will also participate in high-level engagements.

These include meetings of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG), where Zambia serves as deputy chair, and the Group of 77 and China.

Ms Njekwa added that bilateral discussions with partner countries will focus on strengthening partnerships, promoting investment opportunities and advancing priorities under the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact (GDC), and the Seville Commitment.

She explained that these initiatives aim to revitalise multilateralism, accelerate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), foster inclusive digital cooperation and address financing gaps in international development.

Ms Njekwa also indicated that through these engagements, Zambia seeks to consolidate its role within the multilateral system while advancing national development priorities and promoting investment opportunities.