…As both countries reaffirms their cordial economic diplomatic relationship
The Republic of Zambia and Arab Republic of Egypt have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation in infrastructure, education, health, energy, agriculture, trade and investment.
Speaking at a reception to commemorate Egypt’s National Day in Lusaka, Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary for Administration Noriana Muneku said the partnership between the two countries was founded on mutual respect, common interests and a shared vision for Africa’s development.
Ms Muneku said Egypt’s support to Zambia’s human capital development was demonstrated by the awarding of 22 scholarships to Zambian students for the 2025/2026 academic year.
She said 55 Zambian students were currently pursuing studies in Egypt, describing the scholarships as an investment in skills that would contribute to Zambia’s development.
“The true measure of diplomacy lies not only in the agreements that we conclude, but in the tangible benefits these agreements bring to our citizens,” she said.
Meanwhile, Egyptian Ambassador to Zambia Mayada Abdelrahman said Egypt and Zambia shared historical bonds forged during the struggle for liberation and strengthened by common aspirations for development.
“The ties between our two nations run deep. Egypt was one of the first countries to recognise Zambia’s independence,” she said.
Ambassador Abdelrahman said the relationship had gained fresh momentum following President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to Egypt in February 2025, which resulted in agreements covering agriculture, fisheries, infrastructure and investment promotion.
The Egyptian Envoy said companies were already contributing to Zambia’s development, citing the signing of a contract for the construction of 85 kilometres of the Mutanda-Mwinilunga road in North-Western Province.
“This project will reduce travel time, improve connectivity and unlock vast economic opportunities through better access to markets,” Ambassador Abdelrahman said.
She added that Egypt was also exploring further partnerships with Zambia in energy, housing, infrastructure, health and pharmaceutical manufacturing, including technology transfer and local production of medicines.
“True development cannot be imported; it must be built from within, with African hands, African minds and African resources, but with open partnerships with the world,” she noted.
The Ambassador further said Egypt’s partnership with Zambia was further strengthened by their shared commitment to COMESA and the African Continental Free Trade Area, which offered opportunities to expand trade and industrialisation across the continent.
“As Zambia prepares for the General Elections on August 13, Egypt wishes the Zambian people peaceful, credible and transparent elections, with full confidence that the country’s proud tradition of democratic governance and national unity will prevail,” Ms Abdelrahman said.