The governments of Ireland and Japan have appointed special representatives to the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), in a move aimed at strengthening trade and development co-operation with the regional bloc.

Irish Ambassador to Zambia, Aidan Fitzpatrick, and Japanese Ambassador to Zambia, Akiteru Mikami, presented their credentials to COMESA Secretary-General Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe at the organisation’s headquarters in Lusaka.

Kapwepwe said the appointments signal a new phase of collaboration, highlighting opportunities for innovation, trade and sustainable development. She also outlined COMESA’s progress in regional integration, including the establishment of a free trade area and efforts to build one of Africa’s largest integrated markets.

Ireland’s engagement is expected to focus on women’s economic empowerment, sustainable agriculture and digital innovation across member states. Meanwhile, Japan is looking to expand its cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, technology and youth development.

Officials noted that Japan’s support, particularly through development partnerships, has already contributed to key projects like the Chirundu One Stop Border Post, which has improved trade flows in the region.

Both envoys praised COMESA’s role in promoting intra-regional trade and advancing digital transformation, reaffirming their countries’ commitment to closer economic ties with the bloc.

–ChannelAfrica/COMESA–