American Chamber of Commerce in Zambia

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Board Directors

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KACHIZA KWENDA – PRESIDENT

Kachiza Kwenda is an accomplished Finance and Investments professional with over 15 years of experience in Audit, Financial Analysis, Risk and Compliance, Training and Administration, garnered from institutions such as KPMG, (South Africa & Zambia), Lawrence Sikutwa and Associates, Zanaco Plc and Professional Life Assurance. He was part of the team that spearheaded the successful transition and re-brand from Professional Life Assurance to Prudential Life Zambia.

In his 7-year journey heading Internal audit, Risk and compliance, as Chief Financial Officer and current Chief Executive Officer for Prudential Life Assurance Zambia, he has successfully led the business from 4th in the market to one of the preferred and leading employers and insurance service providers in Zambia, through meticulous planning, implementation, management of projects and structure setup, in the company, including business planning, budgeting, forecasting and negotiations.

Kachiza believes in a growth as you work leadership style, mentoring: providing leadership, direction, management advice and strategic insight, creating an environment that allows people to flourish, through an open-door policy. The Chamber is prides in Kachiza’s the impeccable leadership. 

MKOMELA MUNEKU – VICE PRESIDENT

Mkomela is a distinguished Banking and Financial Services professional with over a decade of experience at Citi. As a key member of the bank’s Management Committee, she leads the Treasury and Trade Solutions Department, a role she has held since 2020. Her career with Citi began in 2013 in Zambia, where she quickly advanced through the bank’s competitive Africa division Management Associate program. Upon completion of the program in 2015, Mkomela took on a Relationship Manager role within the Global Subsidiaries unit, followed by a Product Manager position in the Treasury and Trade Solutions function.

Throughout her tenure, Mkomela has been pivotal in formulating and executing strategies amidst changing environments. She has played a crucial role in helping multinationals establish their business presence in Zambia, fostering strong relationships with corporates, multilateral agencies, regulators, and industry leaders. A recognized thought leader, Mkomela is passionate about capacity building. She has partnered with various stakeholders to deliver valuable insights on topics such as cybersecurity, payments digitization, and effective treasury management. Her ability to cultivate networks and drive opportunities to fruition makes her a vital asset to AmCham Zambia.


ROMAN MUKENDI – BOARD SECRETARY

Roman a seasoned entrepreneur and development expert with extensive experience in resource mobilization, policy advocacy, and project management across Africa. He co-founded Financial Insight Zambia and leads several ventures, including Wiggle Ventures LTD and DDB Iris Zambia. Roman has held leadership roles in both the private and non-profit sectors, including as Country Director for Crown Agents and Country Manager for DDB Worldwide. His expertise spans health financing, capacity building, and strategic communication. With advanced degrees in Global Public Policy & Economics and Social Sciences, Roman has a robust academic foundation. His career highlights include overseeing multi-million dollar health programs, providing technical assistance to civil society organizations, and driving business development initiatives across Africa. Roman’s diverse experience and commitment to impactful change make him a key asset to the AmCham Board.

YANDE MWENYE – TREASURER

Yande is currently the Managing Partner of Managing Partner YSM Chartered Accountants. Her work experience has been spent in one of the top 8 tier audit firms. She currently serves on the board of First National Bank (FNB), is a Commissioner for Oaths in Zambia having been appointed in July 2010 and served as an executive member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in 2014 to 2015, Zambia Network Panel. She has over 21 years’ professional work experience that spans over three continents having worked in Europe in Norway, and the British Channel Islands, Australia and Africa in Zambia. The Chamber is privileged to have Yande on board.


ROY MUYELU – BOARD MEMBER

Roy Muyelu is a visionary leader and trusted advisor who brings a unique perspective to the board of the American Chamber of Commerce in Zambia. As the CEO and entrepreneur of Probase Limited, a reputable regional FinTech and ICT services company, Roy has successfully driven unparalleled growth and recognition for the organization. With a deep understanding of emerging technologies, Roy has consistently demonstrated his ability to adapt and innovate in the ever-evolving fintech space. Roy actively contributes to industry associations and community initiatives, sharing his expertise to drive positive change and empower businesses through fintech solutions. His strategic mindset and astute business acumen have allowed Probase Limited to establish strong partnerships with leading financial institutions, bridging the gap between traditional banking practices and cutting-edge fintech solutions. Currently serving as the Chairperson for the Payments Association of Zambia and a board member of the United Africa Blockchain Association (UABA), Roy’s addition to the Board of the American Chamber of Commerce further enhances its strategic objectives.

JOHN STEPHANOS SAMARAS – BOARD MEMBER

John is a resourceful and accomplished individual with vast experience in Innovation, Trade and Commerce, Agriculture, Legal, Entrepreneurship, Energy and Finance and Technology. He has founded and established 13 thriving companies among which is Sampay, a fully licensed Online Payment platform by Bank of Zambia developed from JS’s Vision to be the Google of Online Transactions. The Chamber is delighted to have John as a board member and values his contribution to the sustainability of the vision.

CHAMA NKANDU – BOARD MEMBER

Chama Nkandu is the Country Manager at Baker Tilly Chartered Accountants (Zambia) which is a member of Baker Tilly Central Africa, a network member of Baker Tilly International. She oversees the operations of the company, business growth and strategy implementation. She is a Member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and Associate Member of the Zambia Institute of Chartered Accountants (ZICA) where she also served as a member of the constitution review committee representing Members in Practice. Chama has over 7 years of experience in auditing various companies and organizations in different sectors of the industry. Her position gives her the opportunity to work with clients in different sectors and countries. She brings to AmCham an understanding of the business environment, growth and networking.

PENELOPE CHISANGA – BOARD MEMBER

Penelope was admitted to practice law in Zambia, having been called to the Bar in 2020. With over ten years of experience in corporate advisory and regulatory compliance, Penelope currently holds a dual role as Compliance and Admin Manager and Company Secretary at Barloworld Equipment Zambia. This role has significantly enhanced her ability to apply her extensive legal expertise within organizational settings. Penelope possesses diverse legal proficiencies, including providing crucial advisory services on complex legal matters. She is adept at ensuring adherence to multifaceted laws and regulations and has strong capabilities in minute-taking, facilitating effective team communication during meetings. Her areas of specialization extend beyond risk management and stakeholder engagement, where her performance consistently exceeds expectations. During her tenure at Barloworld Equipment Zambia, serving the Board and being part of the senior leadership team, Penelope has played an instrumental role in spearheading corporate governance initiatives and developing supervisory strategies that successfully address potential risks.

MUKUBESA MALIANDE – BOARD MEMBER

Mukubesa is the Managing Director at the British American Tobacco and a seasoned marketing professional with over eight years of experience in the FMCG sector. Accredited by the Zambia Institute of Marketing, Mukubesa has cultivated extensive expertise in Trade Marketing and Distribution, Key Accounts Manager and Route-to-Market Optimization. With a strong background in leadership and people management, he is known for his ability to engage, inspire, and influence teams effectively. His experience within global organizations with complex market structures enables him to excel in collaborative high-performance settings focuses on achieving commercial goals and delivering world-class product experiences. Mukubesa’s strategic insights and leadership are invaluable assets to the AmCham board. 

PAUL CHISUNKA – BOARD MEMBER

Paul Chisunka is a recognized advocate for private sector reform in Zambia, with extensive experience in multi-sector capacity building. As a key thought leader, Paul actively contributes to public-private dialogue, supporting initiatives that drive business growth and economic development. He advises both local and international investors, as well as development and international partners, to strengthen the capacities of Zambian organizations.  In addition to his role a Country Director of the African Education Program (USA), Paul serves as a trustee of the Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ZACCI) and sits on several other boards, including the Amos Youth Center and Palabana University. With his broad expertise and commitment to Zambia’s economic advancement, Paul is a valuable asset to the Chamber’s leadership.