Minister of Transport and Logistics, Frank Tayali says the transport sector is a key catalyst in fostering social economic growth and transformation in the country.
Mr Tayali says Zambia is repositioning itself in becoming a Land linked country by providing a sustainable transport system that will unlock Zambia’s potential.
The Minister was speaking during the official opening of the Land Linked Zambia Conference and Exhibition in Lusaka that has attracted about 14 countries and 400 delegates from the region.
Mr Tayali stated that the theme for the meeting seeks to address the impact of the African Continental Free Trade Area in the Transport and Logistics Industry as well as the elimination of tariffs on goods, and addressing non-tariff obstacles to intra-regional and inter-African trade.
“Increased trade definitely results in increased demand for transport services and infrastructure at all levels. Therefore, this requires us in the Tripartite area of COMESA, SADC and the East African Community to harness this opportunity”
And Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Assistant Secretary General, Dave Haman has disclosed that Zambia will this June host the COMESA heads of state and government summit to discuss among others the issues affecting the African Continent.
Dr Haman has urged the private sector players to take advantage of the summit and link themselves to other private sector players from COMESA.
Meanwhile Grindrod Chief Executive Officer Xolani Mbambo says Africa has the potential to grow its investment and there is no better time than now.
This year’s theme is leveraging on the impacts of the African Continental Free Trade Area for the African Transport and Logistics Industry.
