The Richest Women In Zambia
Zambia is home to a growing number of powerful and wealthy women who have made significant strides in various industries, including finance, entrepreneurship, entertainment, and agriculture. These women have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and resilience, helping to shape the nation's economic landscape.
While many lists highlight the wealthiest men in Zambia, the influence and financial success of female entrepreneurs and professionals are equally noteworthy. In this article, we explore some of the richest and most influential women in Zambia, detailing their careers, businesses, and contributions to society.
1. Monica Musonda – Entrepreneur and Legal Expert
Monica Musonda is one of Zambia’s most recognized business leaders, known for her work as a lawyer and entrepreneur. She is the founder and CEO of Java Foods Limited, a company that specializes in manufacturing affordable and nutritious food products. Musonda’s journey into entrepreneurship was inspired by her time working as General Counsel for the Dangote Group, where she saw the potential for locally produced goods to reduce Zambia’s dependence on imports.
Java Foods has become a key player in Zambia’s food industry, producing popular brands such as eeZee Instant Noodles and Supa Cereal. Her influence extends beyond business, as she sits on the boards of major organizations, including Airtel Networks Zambia and Zambia Sugar Plc. Through her work, Monica has created jobs, empowered women, and contributed to Zambia’s economic growth.
2. Mukwandi Chibesakunda – Financial Powerhouse
Mukwandi Chibesakunda is a trailblazer in Zambia’s banking sector. She made history by becoming the first female CEO of Zambia National Commercial Bank (Zanaco), the country’s largest bank. With a strong background in economics and finance, she has held various leadership positions, including Managing Director of NATSAVE and President of the Zambia Institute of Banking and Financial Services.
Under her leadership, Zanaco has grown significantly, introducing innovative financial solutions that have improved financial inclusion in Zambia. In recognition of her work, she was named African Female Leader of the Year in 2022. Chibesakunda’s influence in the banking sector has made her one of the most powerful women in Zambia.
3. Sylvia Banda – The Queen of Food Entrepreneurship
Sylvia Banda is a pioneer in Zambia’s food and hospitality industry. She is the founder of Sylva Professional Catering, a business she started in 1986 with a vision to promote locally sourced Zambian cuisine. Over the years, she has expanded her business, opening numerous restaurants and investing in food processing.
Banda has played a critical role in advocating for local farmers and ensuring that Zambian agricultural products reach a broader market. She has also been instrumental in supporting female entrepreneurs through her work with the Zambia Chapter of the African Women Entrepreneurship Programme (AWEP). Her investments in agriculture and food processing have contributed significantly to her wealth and the country’s food security.
4. Mutale Mwanza – Media Mogul and Influencer
Mutale Mwanza is a household name in Zambia’s entertainment industry. As a media personality, entrepreneur, and influencer, she has built a brand that spans television, radio, and digital platforms. Known for her strong personality and unique presenting style, Mwanza has gained a massive following and has used her platform to launch various business ventures.
Her success in the entertainment industry has made her one of the wealthiest female celebrities in Zambia. She has secured lucrative endorsement deals, expanded into brand partnerships, and invested in fashion and cosmetics. Her extravagant lifestyle, including her well-publicized arrival in Lusaka via helicopter, has further cemented her status as a wealthy and influential public figure.
5. Charity Lumpa – Corporate Leader and Strategist
Charity Lumpa is a respected corporate leader with extensive experience in banking, insurance, and business strategy. She has held leadership positions in major institutions, including Barclays Bank Zambia, where she served as Managing Director. Lumpa has also been involved in strategic advisory roles for organizations focusing on financial inclusion and economic development.
Her wealth is derived from her long career in corporate leadership, board memberships, and consultancy work. She continues to be an advocate for women’s empowerment in business and finance, mentoring young professionals and encouraging female participation in leadership roles.
6. Ndamu Kasanda – Mining and Energy Entrepreneur
Ndamu Kasanda has built a name for herself in Zambia’s lucrative mining and energy sectors. As the founder of a successful mining consultancy firm, she has advised some of the biggest players in Zambia’s copper and cobalt industries. Her expertise in mineral exploration and energy resource management has earned her significant wealth and influence.
Kasanda’s work has helped position Zambia as a key player in Africa’s mining sector. Beyond mining, she has invested in renewable energy projects, ensuring that Zambia benefits from sustainable and efficient power sources.
7. Irene Mambilima (Late) – Former Chief Justice
Though she passed away in 2021, Justice Irene Mambilima remains one of Zambia’s most celebrated female figures. She was the first female Chief Justice of Zambia and played a crucial role in strengthening the country’s judicial system. During her tenure, she implemented reforms that improved access to justice and legal transparency.
Mambilima’s contributions to the legal field made her one of the most respected and influential women in Zambia. Her legacy continues to inspire young women pursuing careers in law and governance.
8. Dambisa Moyo – Global Economist and Author
Dambisa Moyo is a Zambian-born global economist, author, and public speaker. Though she operates primarily on the international stage, she remains an important figure in Zambia’s economic discourse. Moyo has written best-selling books on global economic trends, including Dead Aid, How the West Was Lost, and Winner Take All.
She has worked with major financial institutions like Goldman Sachs and has been a board member of multinational corporations such as Chevron and Barclays. Her influence in global finance and economics has earned her significant wealth, making her one of Zambia’s richest women.
9. Hakainde Hichilema’s Wife – Mutinta Hichilema
As the First Lady of Zambia, Mutinta Hichilema has used her platform to advocate for education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. While her wealth is largely tied to her husband, President Hakainde Hichilema, she has independently pursued philanthropic initiatives that have strengthened communities across Zambia.
Her investments in social development projects, particularly in rural education and healthcare, have contributed to her standing as one of the country’s most influential women.
10. Naomi Ng’andu – Businesswoman and Investor
Naomi Ng’andu is a prominent entrepreneur with investments in real estate, agriculture, and manufacturing. She has developed large-scale farming operations that supply both local and international markets. Additionally, she owns several commercial properties in Lusaka, contributing to her financial success.
Ng’andu’s business acumen has positioned her as a leading figure in Zambia’s investment landscape, and her wealth continues to grow as she expands her enterprises.
Conclusion
The women on this list represent the strength and resilience of Zambian women in various industries. Their success stories are proof that with determination, innovation, and strategic investment, women can amass great wealth and influence.
As Zambia continues to develop, the role of female entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, and public figures will only grow stronger. These women serve as an inspiration to future generations, showing that financial success and leadership are achievable regardless of gender.
Who do you think should be included in this list? Let us know in the comments below!
