ZCCI advocates for better business environment

The Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZACCI) has reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for a better business environment and enhancement of private sector dialogue in national development planning.

ZACCI President Michael Nyirenda said his institution will continue to play its role in ensuring that business environment remains conducive for both government and private sector players through enhanced dialogue.

Mr. Nyirenda noted that the cost of doing business relatively remains high hence his institution has this year been engaging government on numerous critical issues that are affecting the business community.

He cited the introduction of Statutory Instrument number 34, accountancy fees as having substantially increased the cost of audit services and consequently the cost of doing business in the country.

He said in order to address such challenges, ZACCI used its channels of dialogue to bring the parties to find an amicable solution that were in the interest of free market operations and standard international audit practice.

The ZACCI President was speaking when he awarded Zambia Breweries Plc for improving the lives of Zambians through their corporate social responsibility programmes.

Mr. Nyirence presented three awards to Zambian Breweries that include an award as Business Leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS, an award in Water Stewardship and a recognition award for exemplary support to ZACCI.

He noted that Zambian Breweries plc is committed to improving the lives of Zambians besides making profit.

Mr. Nyirenda implored other captains of industries to emulate Zambia Breweries Plc in their corporate social responsibility.

And Zambia Breweries Plc Corporate Affairs Director Ezekiel Sekele thanked the Chamber of Commerce for recognizing the efforts of his company in improving the lives of people in the community where it operates.

Mr. Sekele said his company has carried out water projects in Lusaka and Ndola where the company operates in order to plough back to the community.

He said Zambia Breweries realizes that it has a responsibility to help the community by making their lives better in order for the company to stay afloat.

He said the survival of the company is dependent on the wellbeing of the people in which the company does business.

Mr. Sekele has since commended government for approving the alcohol policy which he said is helping to regulate the standards among players in the sector.