The Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants (ZICA), in partnership with the Association of Chartered and Certified Accountants (ACCA) and Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), hosted its annual business conference in Livingstone which brought together industry leaders and experts to discuss critical issues facing businesses in Zambia.
Themed “Business Success Beyond Today: Embracing Innovation, Sustainability, and Excellence,” the conference aimed to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovative solutions to drive Zambia’s economic growth and prosperity.
Speaking during the opening of the conference monitored by the Zambian Business Times – ZBT, ZICA President, Yande Siame Mwenye, emphasized the importance of innovation, sustainability, and excellence in driving business growth and long-term viability.
Mwenye stressed the need for accountants to adapt to changing technological landscapes and prioritize environmental sustainability.
She explained that the 2024 theme of the conference, “Business success beyond today: embracing innovation, sustainability, and excellence,” aligned with the objectives of the 8th National Development Plan, focusing on creating an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and innovation.
“In a world that is rapidly evolving, the need for innovation has never been more critical. As accountants, gone are the days when were just number crunchers sitting in the back office; we are strategic business partners, guiding organizations through the complexities of the modern financial landscape.”
“In addition, promotion of green growth, safeguarding of the environment and natural resources, enhancing climate change mitigation and adaptation, as well as strengthening disaster risk reduction cannot be over-emphasized.”
“As a nation, we are experiencing an El Nino induced drought as a result of climate change and as a further consequence to that an Energy Crisis, therefore the global push towards sustainable practices is not just a trend; it is a necessity. As stewards of financial integrity, we have a responsibility to promote and implement sustainable practices within our organizations and communities. This involves not only environmental sustainability but also social and economic sustainability. By doing so, we contribute to a better future for all, ensuring that our actions today do not compromise the ability of future generations to meet their needs.” She remarked.
Meanwhile, Southern Province Minister, Credo Nanjuwa, commended ZICA for adopting international sustainability standards and emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting sustainability initiatives.
The Annual Business Conference provided a platform for insightful discussions, collaborative efforts, and networking opportunities, aiming to drive positive change and innovation in the business landscape.
