In a significant move to bolster business capabilities in Zambia, BDO Zambia has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Lusaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of LCCI members, Directors, and affiliated businesses through comprehensive training programs.
Speaking at the signing ceremony attended by the Zambian Business Times – ZBT, Godsave Nhekede, Partner at BDO Zambia, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing its potential to elevate the operational effectiveness of LCCI members.
He said the partnership positions BDO Zambia to provide essential training support tailored to the needs of the members, enabling them to achieve their business objectives effectively.
Nhekede highlighted BDO Zambia’s pioneering role, stating that BDO is the first firm in Zambia to sign such an MoU with LCCI. “We are eager to work with LCCI to build the capacity of its members, ultimately improving their business operations.” He noted that BDO is recognized for its commitment to helping companies achieve their objectives, including contributing to societal development.
“This MoU will enable us to further that goal and provide ongoing support to ensure the sustainability and growth of LCCI members.” Added Nhekede.
LCCI President Alexander Lawrence expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership stating that it will advance the vision of the Chamber and fulfill its mandate of creating opportunities and developing our business community. “We represent the interests of businesses within Lusaka, at both district and provincial levels. Our membership spans micro, medium, and large corporates, each with unique development and capacity-building needs. These development programs are crucial for us to realize our vision of making our city, province, and country a regional trade and investment hub.”
Lawrence also highlighted the strategic importance of Lusaka, noting, “Lusaka serves as a key center for several regional economic communities, including SADC, COMESA, the Tripartite Free Trade Area, and the African Continental Free Trade Area. This presents a market opportunity encompassing 1.3 billion people. To capitalize on the linkages that will be established, we need the expertise to develop the capacity of our business community and BDO was identified as a leading firm to provide these services, particularly in financing and market intelligence.” He remarked.
“We are grateful for this collaboration and aim to foster synergy that contributes to the economic transformation mandated to the private sector. We thank BDO and look forward to a productive partnership in achieving the objectives of the Chamber and contributing to the growth of businesses in the market. This MoU will facilitate closer collaboration.”
Meanwhile, speaking at the same event, BDO Zambia Associate Director, Jonathan Ambali underscored the importance of sustainability in modern business practices.
Ambali, noted that in today’s environment, two critical factors stand out: ensuring business sustainability amidst change, and the impact of technology. “Climate change is having a tangible impact, as seen this year with the drought affecting businesses. Additionally, technology is rapidly reshaping how businesses operate. We must help SMEs recognize the imperatives of AI and sustainability.”
Ambali further added that it is crucial that, through this collaboration, “we address the modernization of our business landscape and align with global trends. Sustainability and ESG considerations can no longer be ignored, even by the smallest businesses. We need to address new market access, green finance, effective community engagement, and net-zero initiatives. As advisors, and in partnership with the Chamber, we must address these issues. Beyond traditional business growth, it’s important that we look at these new drivers in the business sector.
Ambali added that BDO is ready to provide the necessary services and advice to the business clients within this arrangement.
This partnership represents a pivotal opportunity for businesses within the Lusaka area to thrive as they navigate the complexities of the modern market, supported by the expertise of BDO Zambia.
