The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) has hosted its 3rd Group Human Resources Conference under the theme, “Aligning HR with the Transformation Agenda and Delivering Results.” This gathering brought together HR leaders from IDC’s portfolio companies to discuss the critical role of human capital in driving the Corporation’s strategic vision.
In his keynote address delivered by Chief Legal Officer Mrs Leya Mtonga-Ngoma, IDC CEO Mr. Cornwell Muleya emphasized that people are at the core of IDC’s transformation agenda. He acknowledged the substantial progress made by various subsidiaries in aligning their workforce strategies with IDC’s broader industrial and economic objectives.
Mr. Muleya urged HR professionals to evolve from traditional, process-focused roles into strategic business partners. He stressed that HR functions must lead in developing a workforce that is efficient, ethical, agile, and data-driven.
“Your HR plans must mirror the 10-year strategic plans that each subsidiary is developing. HR should be an active participant in shaping and implementing these strategies, not just a support function,” he said.
He also called for HR teams to embrace digital tools and artificial intelligence to enhance recruitment, performance management, and workforce planning. Mr Muleya emphasized the importance of outcome-based HR, ensuring that performance contracts become meaningful guides rather than mere formalities.
Meanwhile, IDC Acting Chief Human Capital Officer Mr. Owen Kabanda highlighted the IDC Group’s significant role as Zambia’s second-largest employer with over 20,000 employees, second only to the Government’s Civil Service.
Mr. Kabanda urged HR leaders to recognize their role as nation-builders, stressing that IDC’s transformation agenda directly impacts Zambia’s broader economic growth. He called for collaboration across subsidiaries, encouraging HR professionals to break silos and work together towards a unified vision.
“The transformation agenda of IDC, and by extension, of Zambia, sits on your shoulders,” he concluded.
