LUSAKA, December 15, 2010 – World Bank Group President Robert B. Zoellick will pay a two-day visit to Zambia from December 16-18, 2010. The visit will focus on ways of enhancing Zambia’s competitiveness and sustaining economic growth, particularly through strengthening the key sectors of agriculture, infrastructure, mining, and health.
Mr. Zoellick will meet with the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Rupiah Bwezani Banda, members of parliament, and leaders from the private sector and civil society. He will also visit communities near World Bank supported projects.
Announcing President Zoellick’s visit to the country, Zambia’s Country Manager, Kapil Kapoor said, “Mr. Zoellick’s visit comes at a time when Zambia has achieved significant economic progress over the past five years and there are signs of a promising future”.
During the visit, Mr. Zoellick is also expected to sign an agreement for additional financial support to Zambia’s Malaria Booster Program that has achieved significant success in reducing malaria over the past decade.
Mr. Zoellick will be accompanied by World Bank Africa Region Vice President Mrs. Obiageli Ezekwesili and other senior officials. From Zambia Mr. Zoellick will travel to Mali.