Zambia and Qatar Historic $19 Billion Partnership to Build 1.5 Million Homes

The government has secured one of the largest bilateral investment commitments in its history after signing an ambitious $19 billion memorandum of understanding with Qatar, with plans to construct 1.5 million affordable housing units as a centrepiece of the partnership.

President Hakainde Hichilema witnessed the signing ceremony that reflects what officials described as a shared vision to drive national development through public-private cooperation. The comprehensive agreement covers multiple sectors including energy and oil, banking and finance, housing and urban development, agriculture, mining, and infrastructure development.

Al Mansour Holdings, the Qatari partner in the deal, outlined its commitment to bringing international technical expertise to Zambia's development challenges.

"Our vision here is to look at a long-term partnership, using our technical experience from all sectors around the world," said Nadal Ammache, Chairman of Al Mansour Holdings. "We believe our technical team is one of the best, dealing with agriculture, livestock, food security, tourism, affordable housing, mining, ports and airports."

Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe signed on behalf of the Zambian government, describing the partnership as "a significant step toward improving the welfare of Zambian citizens and advancing national development."

The binding execution agreement specifically targets Zambia's housing shortage while simultaneously boosting key economic sectors including tourism, energy, education, agriculture, and fuel supply.

Sheikh Mansour Bin Jabour Jassim Al Thani, a member of the Qatari royal family and chairman of the Al Mansour Group, witnessed the historic signing ceremony.

Officials indicated that the public should expect to see tangible outcomes from the agreement in the near future, marking a new chapter in Zambia-Qatar bilateral relations.