Civil society organisations (CSOs) in Zambia took a significant step toward shaping global tax policy during a two-day capacity-building workshop focused on the United Nations Tax Convention (UNTC) and its early protocols.
The training, which was held in Lusaka on August 19 and 20, 2025, was facilitated by Tax Justice Network Africa (TJNA) in partnership with the Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR), the Zambia Tax Platform, and the TaxEd Alliance.
The workshop aimed to equip Zambian CSOs with the knowledge and tools needed to engage meaningfully in the UNTC process, particularly in preparation for the upcoming Nairobi sessions in November 2025.
With over 60 participants from national CSOs, government institutions, media alliances, and development partners, the workshop fostered a collaborative environment for learning, strategising, and advocacy planning.
Facilitators from TJNA, led in-depth discussions on the two early protocols, taxation of cross-border services and dispute resolution mechanisms, highlighting their potential impact on global tax standards and Zambia’s domestic resource mobilisation.
In his remarks, TJNA’s Senior Policy Officer, Mr Francis Kairu highlighted that the UN Tax Convention represents a turning point for African countries like Zambia.
“For the first time, we are seeing a process that puts fairness and inclusivity at the center of global tax rules. Our discussions on the early protocols, especially on cross-border services and dispute resolution, are crucial for ensuring Zambia’s interests are protected and that we can mobilise more resources for national development,” Mr. Francis Kairu added.
A key outcome of the training was the development of a draft position paper outlining Zambia’s CSO priorities and proposed contributions to the UNTC negotiations. Participants identified critical tax issues, gathered supporting evidence, and agreed on advocacy strategies to ensure Zambia’s voice is heard in international forums.
Government representatives from the Zambia Revenue Authority, Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry engaged with CSOs, providing insights into Zambia’s current stance and encouraging continued collaboration.
The training concluded with participants' commitment to monitor the UNTC process and engage with the Africa Group, participate actively in the Nairobi sessions and other regional advocacy platforms, and disseminate campaign messages through social media and public outreach.
For more information on the CSOs Training please contact Ishmael Zulu at izulu[@]taxjusticeafrica.net.
