Why Zambia needs to join BRICS.

By Mwamba Martin

As a collaborator with the BRICS initiatives, I strongly urge our government to consider joining BRICS at this moment rather than postponing the decision, late commers eat bones they say. The following outlines several compelling reasons that highlight why we should take this critical step towards membership in this influential block. It is also important to understand that BRICS is not a grouping aimed against any particular nation or entity; rather, it represents a coalition of emerging economies that seek to enhance cooperation and development on a global scale that speaks to the needs of the individual countries. The advantages of being part of BRICS significantly outweigh any disadvantages, making this a strategic move for our nation. Joining BRICS would not only enhance Zambia’s international standing but also open up new avenues for economic growth and sustainable development.

Economic Diversification: – Access to New Markets: Joining BRICS would open up avenues for Zambia to access larger markets within member countries, facilitating trade and investment opportunities. – Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Membership could attract more diverse foreign investment, as BRICS countries often have significant capital reserves and are interested in expanding their investment portfolios in Africa. With almost 27% representation of the world’s economy and just over 40% of the population, it means there is enormous room for economic growth and markets to explore and do trade with. BRICS is also now ahead of the G7 when it comes to GDP calculated using PPP, not only, the average GDP growth for the G7 is Projected at around 1% while BRICS is averaging 3.7%, this clearly shows that BRICS will take over the world economy in the near future, and as such, Zambia should not wait to join.

Support for Development Goals: – Infrastructure Development: BRICS partners are encouraging tailor made finance, meaning that we can as a nation choose our own priority investments to finance growth, rather than forced policies and projects. Zambia could leverage this for its own development needs, enabling projects in transport, energy, and water supply that are essential for economic growth. – Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Collaboration with BRICS nations can enhance Zambia’s efforts to achieve the UN SDGs through shared knowledge, expertise, and funding.

Enhanced Political Influence: – Strengthening Multilateral Relations: Membership would elevate Zambia’s international profile and allow it to engage more robustly in global governance issues at a round table with BRICS nations, it’s a table where all decisions are made, unlike other organizations where people gather and deliberate and decisions are made by the chosen few. – Support from Major Powers: Being part of BRICS would also mean having the backing of major global players, which could help Zambia navigate international politics more effectively.

Diversified Partnerships: – Balancing Relationships: By joining BRICS, Zambia could diversify its international partnerships beyond traditional Western alliances, moreover, BRICS is not aimed against any nation or block as evidenced by Turkey`s request to join while belonging to NATO and a candidate of the EU. Joining would reduce dependency on any single bloc and promote a more balanced neutral foreign policy. – Collaboration with Emerging Economies: Membership offers Zambia a unique opportunity to collaborate with fast-growing economies, promoting knowledge-sharing and innovation.

Access to Technological Advancements: – Knowledge Transfer: Countries like China and India have made significant advances in technology and innovation. Zambia could benefit from technology transfer agreements and collaborative research initiatives within the BRICS framework rather than pursue bilateral agreements. – Capacity Building: Member states often share best practices and expertise, which could help Zambian institutions enhance their capacities.

Cultural and Educational Exchange: – Youth Exchange Programs: BRICS membership could facilitate educational initiatives and cultural exchanges, helping Zambia’s youth gain international exposure and skills relevant to a globalized economy. – Collaboration in Science and Technology: Joint projects in science and technology can bolster research and education in Zambia, leading to innovations that support local needs.

Trade and Economic Cooperation: – Trade Agreements: Zambia could benefit from preferential trade agreements within the BRICS framework, which may lead to reduced tariffs and better trade conditions. – Joint Ventures: There are opportunities for joint ventures in various sectors, including mining, agriculture, and manufacturing, which can significantly boost Zambia’s economy.

Collective Bargaining Power: – Strength in Numbers: By aligning with other emerging economies, Zambia can enhance its negotiating power on various global issues, especially in matters related to trade, climate change, and development finance. In summary, joining BRICS could offer Zambia significant economic benefits, political leverage, and opportunities for sustainable development. By becoming part of this influential group, Zambia can position itself strategically on the global stage while fostering economic growth and improving the well-being of its citizens.

For these reasons, I earnestly call upon our government to prioritize the process of joining BRICS. By taking a proactive step in joining BRICS, we can position Zambia favorably in a rapidly changing global landscape, ensuring that we harness the full potential of our nation’s resources and capabilities for the benefit of all our citizens. The time for action is now, and the opportunities that BRICS membership presents should not be overlooked.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy of Melo Media Zambia.