Author: Rainer Michael Preiss, Partner & Portfolio Strategist at Das Family Office
On August 7 & 8th Zambia held the first ever Zambia financial markets conference. The next day August 9th the tropical island state of Singapore celebrated its 60 anniversary of independence as a sovereign nation and inspiration to developing countries & frontier markets alike. Zambia gained independence from the British Empire in 1964 and Singapore in 1965.
Mr. LEE Kwan Yew and the Singapore story, can be an inspiration to African Head of States and policy makers. Many Africans would agree that with the exception of Nelson Mandela, African countries sadly too often had the wrong leadership that failed their countries and people. Good governance and a solid capital markets development masterplan can help Zambia to catch up with Singapore and to bring prosperity to the people of Zambia.
Africa and Zambia offer long-term growth potential often overlooked in global portfolios. Zambia’s local stock market LUSE is 30 years young and a promising and attractive market for emerging markets and frontier markets investors.
Zambia ministry of finance and national planning graced the event with an important key note speech for the people of Zambia and global investors.
In a world where freedom of speech and freedom of the press is increasingly at risk the Zambia government reconfirmed the importance of the press in building a world class and sustainable capital market with inclusive growth for all.
Host & Theme: Organized by Galaxy Consulting Limited. The theme was “Growth and Opportunities”, focusing on Zambia’s money and capital markets.
What It Included: A diverse agenda featuring insightful panel discussions, live investment pitches, networking opportunities with regional and global investors, exhibitions showcasing financial innovation, and strategic dialogue including regulators, financial sector players, fintech actors, and government stakeholders.
Importance for Zambia
1. Strengthening Capital Markets
This conference represents a strategic push to develop and modernize Zambia’s capital markets—key to supporting SMEs, infrastructure, and inclusive economic growth.
2. Boosting Investor Confidence & Innovation
By bringing together policymakers, innovators, and investors, the event signals Zambia’s readiness to embrace innovation, encourage foreign and domestic investment, and enhance financial sector transparency.
3. Supporting National Financial Strategy
The conference aligns with broader initiatives like the Capital Markets Master Plan (CMMP)—a 10-year strategy launched earlier to establish Zambia as a financial hub, introduce products like green bonds, private equity, and develop robust government bond and equity markets.
4. Fostering Economic Diversification & Sustainability
Leveraging capital markets helps reduce reliance on traditional borrowing—offering more sustainable financing avenues that support green growth, SME empowerment, and long-term economic resilience.
In Summary
The Zambia Financial Markets Conference 2025 served as a powerful platform to chart the country’s financial future. With its emphasis on market innovation, investor engagement, and policy cohesion, the event significantly contributes to Zambia’s ambitions of becoming a vibrant African financial market supporting a growing economy to help reduce poverty and bring prosperity to the people of Zambia.
