Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
UK Minister for Africa, Vicky Ford has arrived in the country for a three day visit aimed at continuing building the modern partnership between the UK and Zambia.
Ms ford’s visit to Zambia is part of her regional visit which will also take her to Malawi and Tanzania.
According to a statement obtained by Q-News, Minister Ford will whilst in Zambia meet with president Hakainde Hichilema, Foreign Affairs Minister Stanley Kakubo and with key government and business stakeholders to showcase the two countries’ collaboration on areas of mutual interest such as girls’ education, illegal wildlife trade, and the cooperation between the UK and Zambia on international issues, including the global response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
She will also during her visit launch the British Investment International (BII) in Zambia, a new British development finance institution that will invest billions in infrastructure and technology in low and middle income countries across Asia, Africa and the Caribbean.
Minister Ford who will be making her first visit to Zambia since her appointment as Minister for Africa will during her visit pay a condolence visit to Mrs Thandiwe Banda widow of fourth republican president Rupiah Banda who died last month.
Speaking ahead of her visit, Ms Ford says she is delighted to visit Zambia and see how the UK is working with president Hichilema’s government to support its development and economic objectives, and to foster cooperation between the two countries on international issues where they have shared values and principles.
She adds that at a time when fundamental human rights and freedoms across the globe are under threat than seen for years, the example set by Zambia during the last elections gives strength to all that democracy will prevail.
And in an apparent encouragement to Zambians, Minister Ford says rebuilding the economy and providing education and opportunities for all will require time and patience, and that the UK stands ready to support in these vital endeavors.