By Joseph Mapalo Kamanga
Zambia and Germany have solidified their 60-year diplomatic bond following successful bilateral negotiations in Berlin, which resulted in a K1.8 billion (€81.5 million) development pledge from the German government.
The two-day talks, which concluded on May 7, 2026, focused on aligning international support with Zambia’s 8th National Development Plan. The new funding is slated to bolster critical sectors over the next two years, including good governance, energy and water access, and food security through climate-resilient agriculture.
Ministry of Finance and National Planning Permanent Secretary Mulele M. Mulele, who led the Zambian delegation, stated that the country is moving away from a traditional donor-recipient dynamic. He emphasized a shift toward a partnership model rooted in mutual accountability and investment-led growth.
German Director General for the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Christine Toetzke, reaffirmed Germany’s role as a reliable partner. She noted that Germany remains committed to supporting Zambia’s development reforms to ensure they lead to real improvements in the lives of Zambians.
In a first for these negotiations, a Business Day was held to encourage private sector participation in development. This approach was highlighted by the recent launch of a technical training center in Chongwe, a project co-funded by the German government and Liebherr Zambia.
Both nations confirmed that their continued cooperation will be guided by a shared respect for democracy, the rule of law, and human rights.
©️Zambia Reports, 7th May 2026