Ndola, July 6 , 2026 (TOP243NEWS).-The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) received the highest honor at the 60th edition of the Ndola International Trade Fair in Zambia, being named Best Exhibitor among delegations from more than 17 countries. The trophy and certificate were presented by Zambia’s Vice President, Mutale Nalumango, during the official ceremony marking the diamond jubilee of one of the region’s leading trade and investment events.
Beyond the award itself, the recognition reflects the DRC’s growing efforts to strengthen its regional economic presence, promote the expertise of its businesses, and advance its economic diplomacy at a time when the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is reshaping trade across the continent.
A National Achievement
Accepting the award on behalf of the Congolese government, Georges Mbau, Provincial Minister for Commerce and Transport of Haut-Katanga, dedicated the distinction to the Congolese authorities and to the companies that proudly represented the DRC in Ndola.
« The Congolese authorities have always trusted us by allowing us to participate in this event. We express our sincere gratitude to them. We also thank the President of the Republic for his continuous efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations with neighboring countries despite the difficult circumstances our country is facing. »
The minister also paid tribute to Congolese companies that took part in the fair despite economic and security challenges.
« It is not easy to come and defend the image of the Democratic Republic of the Congo under such circumstances. Those who do so are driven by their love for their country. That is the true secret behind this victory. »
Three Months of Preparation
According to Prosper Kiboko, Head of the Foreign Trade Division of Haut-Katanga and National Focal Point for Foreign Trade, the award was the result of careful planning rather than chance.
He explained that preparations for the Congolese pavilion began three months before the fair officially opened, with weekly coordination meetings bringing together all participating institutions and businesses.
Among the factors that impressed the international jury were the quality of the pavilion’s organization, its strong alignment with the official theme of the 60th edition, the large number of participating Congolese companies, and the exhibitors’ ability to showcase the DRC’s industrial and commercial potential.
« Our objective was not only to exhibit our products but also to learn from international best practices, bring those experiences back home, and at the same time present to Africa and the world the wealth and opportunities produced in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. »
« Made in Congo » Gains Recognition
Members of the Congolese delegation reported that several locally manufactured products attracted significant interest from visitors and business partners attending the fair.
For Prosper Kiboko, the recognition also serves as an incentive to continue improving the quality of Congolese products so they can meet international standards.
He noted that the participation of public institutions such as the Congolese Control Office (OCC) demonstrates the country’s commitment to strengthening certification and compliance mechanisms essential for accessing regional and global markets.
Advancing Regional Economic Integration
The distinction comes as the DRC seeks to expand trade with Southern African countries, particularly Zambia, one of its key strategic economic partners.
More than a trophy, the victory in Ndola sends a strong signal to investors and business leaders. It highlights the DRC’s ability to present a credible, well-organized, and competitive economic offering on major African trade platforms.
Congolese officials now hope to build on the Ndola experience by strengthening trade fairs at home and positioning the Democratic Republic of the Congo as a leading player in regional commerce.
By Mike Pakoto | TOP243NEWS