Opening Remarks

The 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the European Union Zambia Business Council (EUZBC) was called to order by Treasurer Mr. Andrew Chibuye, who welcomed all members present. Special recognition was given to H.E Karolina Stasiak, Ambassador of the European Union to Zambia and COMESA, and Mr. Teddy Soobramanien, CEO COMESA Business Council, along with other distinguished guests and members.

Annual Report

Outgoing President Mr. Mark Lüring highlighted the achievements and challenges during his tenure. He acknowledged the support of the European Union and presented key activities of 2023. These included participation in the Zambian National budget discussions, engagement with the EU on support for Zambia, attendance at the Czech-Zambia business forum, Environmental indaba, and dialogues with government officials. Membership stood at 180, with concerns raised over 60% non-payment of subscription fees.

Presentation of Financial Report

Treasurer Mr. Andrew Chibuye reported on the club’s finances.

Membership fees in 2023 amounted to ZMW145,000 compared to ZMW377,000 in 2022.
Expenditure was ZMW101,000, with a closing balance of ZMW319,000.

Plans to grow membership and the club’s brand were highlighted. The financial report was approved by members.

Presentation of Board Candidates

A list of candidates for the EUZBC Board was circulated to members.

Voting of Board Members

Members approved the new Board, with Mr. Michael Kroupnik announced as the new President.

Welcome Guest of Honour by New President

Newly elected President Mr. Kroupnik introduced the board members:

• Elaine Henning – Vice President
• Gabriel Mumba – Vice President
• Deborah Bwalya – Board Secretary
• Niels Bojsen – Treasurer
• Lee-Anne Singh – Board Member
• Kohan Morina – Board Member

and invited H.E. Karolina Stasiak to share her remarks.

Remarks by H.E. Karolina Stasiak

H.E. Karolina Stasiak thanked the EUZBC for the invitation and congratulated the new Board. She discussed upcoming EU and COMESA initiatives, including a business forum in April 2024 focusing on Zambia’s copper value chain. She emphasized the need for skills development and highlighted EU’s €22 million ‘Green economy and diversification’ program. Collaboration with the EUZBC on various initiatives to improve Zambia’s business environment was encouraged.

Keynote Speech by Guest of Honour – Mr. Teddy Soobramanien

Mr. Teddy Soobramanien congratulated the new Board and emphasized the importance of collaboration between EUZBC and COMESA to leverage trade and economic opportunities across Africa. He highlighted COMESA’s initiatives to support business growth and called for active engagement with the business community.

Closing Remarks by the New President

President Mr. Kroupnik reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the private sector’s business interests in Zambia through collaboration with partners like the EU and COMESA. He pledged an open-door policy and improved communication channels for members. Appreciation was extended to the guests and members for their participation.

Meeting Adjournment

The AGM concluded at 16:30.

Next Steps:

The new Board will commence its tenure, focusing on implementing the discussed initiatives and fostering collaboration with key stakeholders for the benefit of EUZBC members and the broader business community in Zambia.

For more information or inquiries, please contact the EUZBC Secretariat.