Haimbe represents Hichilema at Commonwealth summit as Zambia pursues trade and investment partnerships

Zambia is using the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Antigua and Barbuda to pursue new trade, investment and development partnerships.

Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Mulambo Haimbe is representing President Hakainde Hichilema at the summit, which runs from 1 to 4 November under the theme “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth”.

Foreign Affairs Principal Public Relations Officer Eva Chanda said Zambia’s participation was aimed at strengthening diplomatic relations, expanding economic cooperation and attracting investment from fellow Commonwealth member states.

She said the meeting offered leaders an opportunity to address shared global challenges, including economic development, climate change, international trade, peace and security and democratic governance.

Mrs Chanda said Zambia would also use the gathering to advance the Grow Zambia agenda by promoting investment opportunities, expanding access to international markets and attracting development financing.

Beyond the leaders’ sessions, Mr Haimbe will take part in the Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers’ Meeting and the 75th Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group, where Zambia currently serves as Vice-Chair.

The Zambian delegation will also attend the Commonwealth Business Forum and a series of engagements on youth empowerment, gender equality, health and climate action.

Mrs Chanda said Zambia was expected to hold bilateral meetings with Commonwealth member states and international partners on the sidelines of the summit to explore further trade and investment opportunities.

She added that the delegation would use the engagements to advance Zambia’s bid to re-host the Commonwealth Youth Centre.