Traders operating in spare parts businesses around Freedom Way and surrounding areas in Lusaka CBD have appealed to His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema to intervene in the growing challenges affecting local traders.
Speaking on behalf of fellow traders this morning in Lusaka, Nkane Auto Spares owner Eugene Nkandu, who is also a former Global Traders Association of Zambia Public Relations Officer, said local traders appreciate the leadership and efforts being made by the President, but felt it was important to raise concerns affecting many Zambian-owned businesses in the spare parts sector.
Mr. Nkandu noted that most spare parts shops within the area are owned and operated by Zambians, but traders are now worried about the growing number of foreign nationals entering the same retail space and competing directly with local businesses.
He questioned whether relevant government institutions are conducting enough follow-ups to ensure foreign investors are operating according to the conditions attached to their permits and licences.
Mr. Nkandu cited institutions such as the Immigration Department, Lusaka City Council, and the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), asking whether proper checks are being conducted before licences are issued and whether tax compliance is being monitored effectively.
He further stated that investors are generally expected to contribute towards industrialisation, manufacturing, or establishing large-scale warehouses that help create employment opportunities for Zambians.
Meanwhile, local trader and former chairman of the Global Traders Association of Zambia, Joseph Chanda, said traders had previously engaged Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) offices over the matter but had not received satisfactory responses.
Mr. Chanda explained that this prompted traders to place banners in their shops as a way of appealing directly to the President for intervention.
He warned that if the current business environment continues unchecked, many local traders risk being pushed out of business, leaving future generations without economic opportunities.
Mr. Chanda further alleged that some trading spaces originally established by Zambians have now been taken over by foreign traders, while some landlords are reportedly charging rentals in United States dollars, a situation he said disadvantages many local traders who earn in kwacha.
He claimed that foreign traders often have access to stronger financial backing, making it difficult for local traders to compete fairly in the CBD.
Mr. Chanda has since called on the media to investigate the matter, stating that many businesses within the CBD are now being occupied by foreign nationals.
The traders have appealed to President Hakainde Hichilema to engage them in dialogue and help find solutions that will protect local businesses while promoting fair trade and investment in Zambia.
©️The Ballot, 12 May 2026