PMRC DIASPORA SERIES

Potential of the Zambian Diaspora

Zambia can greatly benet from the untapped power of Zambians living abroad (Zambian diaspora) through remittances of money, capacity building, investment partnerships and skills and Remittances Skills Knowledge knowledge to boost economic advancements. Zambians in the diaspora are a National GRZ Strategic Asset in context of Capacity Building nation building. Partnerships
In 2011, Zambias remittances totaled approximately USD126m through formal and informal means. Only 4.6% (USD288m) of the 2013 National Budget will be derived from aid. Increasing remittances could reduce our aid dependency and possibly enable Zambia to be self suffcient by 2015. What would a Diaspora Engagement Policy Mean for Zambia?
Partnership for Economic Growth and Development:- The Diaspora can be a source

Remittances
In 2007, Zambia received an estimated USD 59 million in remittances from its diaspora through formal channels. Estimates show that the total ow of remittances both through formal and informal channels was approximately USD 200 million, 1.8% of GDP, (World Bank: 2011).

of knowledge, skills, resources and technology to contribute to economic growth and development.

Diaspora remittances before and after Diaspora Policy

US$538m

Kenya
US$1.758bn

Key

Before Diaspora Policy After Diaspora Policy

Increased Remittances and Foreign Direct Investment:- Engagment with the diaspora

will promote an enhanced investment environment which will increase the levels of remittances into Zambia.

Nigeria

US$1.063bn US$10.045bn
Deepening Democracy:- Inclusive participation in national issues and dialogue will help Zambias quest for social and economic development.

Barriers to diaspora not returning or contributing to Zambia's development

1. Legal barriers like dual nationality 2. Lack of organised participation in national programmes 3. Financial constraints 4. Lack of housing in Zambia 5. Work commitments.

Recommendations
Policy
Formulate a comprehensive Diaspora Engagement Policy to create a sustainable partnership between Zambia and the diaspora, towards achievement of our nation building agenda.

Delivery
Add mandate through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, "Diaspora Liason Ofce" to orchrastrate the development and implementation of initiatives to unlock Zambia's diaspora's potential.

Information
Establish a Zambians in the diaspora database to offer information on Zambia, detailed information on the diaspora and joint initative opportunities.

Unlocking Zambias Potential

Email: info@pmrczambia.net Publications: www.scribd.com/pmrczambia