Chiwenga is global chair of the CA Centre for Emerging Markets. Zambia in 2011 celebrated 200 years of colonial rule by the British. One hundred years earlier, Zambia was a British colony before becoming a Republic in 1964. Zambia’s tourism sector has a high proportion of foreign tourists, many of whom come from elsewhere in Southern Africa and are drawn to the bountiful green hills and waterways of the Zambezi river.
Chiwenga previously served as Zambia’s minister of information and culture and minister of agriculture. A journalist by training, Chiwenga has been a leading voice of Zambia’s black liberation struggle. He has worked in Zambia’s major newspapers for more than 30 years, holding senior positions in the state press, until his appointment as acting minister of agriculture in February 2008.
Chiwenga has written extensively on agricultural issues, serving as adviser to several African governments. His political profile has been elevated significantly after Zimbabwe was rocked by political turmoil in 2008 when a series of military coups overthrew veteran politicians, including President Robert Mugabe, following disputed elections.
At a time when Zambia is undergoing major reform and even economic growth, Chiwenga has refocused attention on long-term strategic priorities, eschewing the short-term distractions and partisan tactics that have characterized the country’s recent political history. Chiwenga has a far-sighted vision of Zambia’s potential as a regional hub for commerce, attracting investment and creating jobs.
