By Amos Sikaonga 
By Cecilia Chiluba
Lusaka Securities Exchange (LuSE) says it is collaborating with larger exchanges such as the London Stock Exchange (LSE) to drive increased capital market access for domestic issuers.
In view of this collaboration, LuSE and LSE in partnership with the UK Government’s Department of Business & Trade hosted a participant active round table on 15th April 2025, with the theme “Stay Local, Go Global.”
“Stay local, Go Global” means Zambian companies can leverage domestic capital markets given their brand recognition, market familiarity and local networks and use the confidence reposed by local investors to also attract global capital from international markets.
At the event, London Stock Exchange was represented by Head of Primary Markets, Middle East & Africa, Mr. Abi Ajayi, while Tracey Austin represented the UK Government’s Department of Business & Trade.
The round table meeting, which was also attended by key market participants and business leaders, focused on unlocking global capital access for Zambian National Champions.
According to LuSE Chief Executive Officer Nicholas Kabaso, the engagements brought together top executives from leading banks, conglomerates, top Pension Funds, fintechs and select advisers to discuss the opportunities and challenges in Zambia’s growing capital markets.
Mr. Kabaso explained in a statement that a key discussion point focused on Zambian companies utilizing the domestic capital markets and raising awareness of the many opportunities available to access international capital.
“The discussion highlighted the importance of a streamlined listing processes and the role of capital markets in facilitating economic growth.”
“During the meeting, key institutional investors present indicated willingness to continue supporting local businesses via the LuSE,” Mr. Kabaso stated.
He added that the investors also indicated that they would like to see more liquidity in the market to facilitate easier trading in and out of market positions.
Mr. Kabaso said participants also explored how recent UK market reforms could offer increased flexibility and appeal for local companies looking to explore a secondary listing in London as the UK remains active and engaged in mobilizing its best expertise and offering in Zambia and the rest of Africa.
“The event further underscored the significance of collaboration between the LuSE and LSE in creating new opportunities for Zambian businesses to access global capital, and highlighted London’s position as a financing destination for international companies,” he said.
Mr. Kabaso encouraged business leaders and market participants to leverage collaboration between the two exchanges to access international capital markets.
“This can be done by leveraging local exchanges, which gives a competitive edge to businesses, when they seek to raise capital on international stock exchanges.”
“By working together, the two exchanges can help Zambian companies navigate the complexities of international listings and unlock new avenues for growth,” Mr. Kabaso added.
He said the forum was concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening Zambia’s capital markets and positioning the country as a hub for international investment.
Cecilia Chiluba