Canada has re-established its diplomatic mission in Lusaka, ending a fifteen-year gap in resident representation. The Lusaka Times reported that Randeep Sarai, the Canadian Secretary of State for International Development, and Mulambo Haimbe, Zambia’s foreign minister, inaugurated the office on November 9, 2026. This event occurred during Sarai’s three-day trip to the country. Concurrently, the two nations executed a Memorandum of Understanding outlining a framework for enhanced collaboration on trade, critical minerals, and regional security.
According to the Lusaka Times, the decision to restore the mission directly addresses President Hakainde Hichilema’s request for a permanent diplomatic presence. Haimbe characterized the step as an endorsement of Zambia’s political stability and its economic reform trajectory. He highlighted that Canadian firms hold significant assets in the Zambian mining sector, valued at over 12.9 billion US dollars, which contribute to local jobs and state revenue.
The Lusaka Times detailed specific financial commitments accompanying the diplomatic return. FinDev Canada, the bilateral development finance arm, has pledged a loan of approximately 35 million US dollars to Zambia National Commercial Bank. This amount forms part of a broader 105 million US dollar facility involving Citibank and other international partners. The funding aims to broaden financial access for small and medium enterprises, with a specific focus on women-led and agribusiness ventures.
Additionally, the partners launched the TRISEG programme, a five-year initiative funded by Global Affairs Canada. The Lusaka Times noted that this project, implemented with the Zambia Development Agency, supports small businesses and cross-border traders. It is designed to facilitate the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area. The programme runs from 2025 through 2030.
During the visit, Ottawa committed 10.5 million Canadian dollars toward economic growth, women’s empowerment, and energy access. Since 2020, the country has delivered over 210 million Canadian dollars in aid to Zambia. Corry van Gaal, the newly appointed High Commissioner, stated that the resident mission reflects a long-term commitment to deeper ties with Zambia and wider engagement across Southern Africa.