Janet Simwanza is a seasoned development economist with extensive experience in project management, investment promotion and international trade policy. With over eight years of experience in implementing UNIDO technical cooperation projects in Zambia, she currently serves as the National Investment Promotion Country Coordinator for the UNIDO ACP Business-Friendly Programme in Zambia, co-implemented by the World Bank and the International Trade Centre. In this capacity, she spearheads Zambia’s strategic initiatives to enhance investment promotion, improve facilitation and retention support mechanisms, and foster meaningful investor engagement.

Her career encompasses significant roles in both public institutions and donor-funded programmes, including the Economic and Commercial Unit of the U.S Embassy in Zambia; National Implementation Unit of the Enhanced Integrated Framework Programme in Zambia and the Ministry of Commerce, Trade & Industry.

Janet holds a master’s degree in Diplomacy and Trade from Monash University, Australia, and a bachelor’s degree in Development Studies and Economics from the University of Zambia.