In a significant development for regional trade, Zambia is set to host the 8th Tripartite Nacala Development Corridor Management Committee (NDCMC) meeting from March 25th to 29th, 2024. This gathering holds particular weight as it’s the first since the leaders of Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia signed the Nacala Development Agreement. Building upon the momentum established during the 7th meeting held in Malawi last year, delegates from all three countries will convene in Lusaka, Zambia.
The conference will primarily focus on assessing the progress made by the numerous working groups created under the NDCMC umbrella. These 10 sector cluster groups bring together agencies from each country to collaborate on certain issues critical to the corridor’s development. Furthermore, legal counsels will attend a separate side meeting to formalize the Nacala Development Corridor hosting agreement, which is an important step in solidifying the partnership framework. Additionally, cluster meetings will be held to develop new action plans for the following six months, assuring sustained success.
The NDCMC itself serves as a trilateral committee established by Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia with a clear vision: to facilitate the safe, cost-effective, and efficient movement of goods and people along the corridor. Beyond just transportation, the committee also prioritizes the development, improvement, and maintenance of the corridor’s infrastructure and services. Collaboration on trade facilitation and other development issues is another key aspect of their mandate.
The World Bank Group bolsters these efforts as the leading cooperating partner. Their support focuses on assisting Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia in achieving shared goals: reducing trade costs and time, fostering the development of valuable trade partnerships, and enhancing infrastructure to improve market access for those who rely on the corridor.
Zambia’s hosting of this meeting signifies the unwavering commitment of the member states to their collective aspirations. They are united in their pursuit of developing and implementing legal frameworks, regulations, policies, and programs. These initiatives aim to not only promote robust transport infrastructure but also significantly facilitate trade not just among the three nations but also throughout the wider region, fostering economic growth and prosperity.
