As the first female Secretary General of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), H.E. Mrs. Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe has been a driving force behind regional economic integration, trade facilitation, and sustainable development across Africa. Since assuming office, she has led strategic initiatives to enhance intra-African trade, strengthen cross-border investment, and promote industrialization among COMESA’s 21 member states. Under her leadership, COMESA has advanced key policies in digital trade, financial inclusion, and infrastructure development, ensuring that African economies remain competitive in the global market. She has also championed programs that support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), particularly those led by women and youth, fostering inclusive economic growth.

A seasoned economist and policy expert, Mrs. Kapwepwe has played a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s trade landscape through her advocacy for deeper regional integration and sustainable economic policies. Her extensive experience in both public and private sectors, including previous leadership roles at the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Zambia Revenue Authority, has positioned her as a transformative leader in Africa’s economic diplomacy.