Mwanda Phiri-Mwewa is an economist with expertise in research and policy advisory work. With a strong understanding of Africa’s socioeconomic context, Mwanda is dedicated to driving economic prosperity and transformation across the continent. As Africa Lead for the Charter Cities Institute (CCI), Mwanda leads CCI Zambia and supports the development of new thriving cities across Africa that foster investments, jobs, and sustainable and inclusive economic transformation. She leads and coordinates activities of the Zambia regional office, working with the team to successfully establish and grow CCI’s presence and recognition in Zambia, the region, and globally; build strategic partnerships with key stakeholders; provide technical assistance to governments and private sector on new city projects; manage impactful research, policy analyses, and new city projects; and mobilize resources. Prior to joining CCI, Mwanda served as head of the Trade and Investment Unit at the Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and Research.
Over the years, Mwanda has made notable contributions to Zambia’s key policy documents, namely the 7th National Development Plan and the National Demographic Dividend Operational Plan, among other national and regional policies and strategies. She is a published author with 10 years of working experience. Her research interests include inclusive and sustainable industrial development, structural transformation, trade, governance, and private sector development. Mwanda is recognised for her expertise and was appointed to the Capital Markets Tribunal in Zambia and invited to be a member of influential networks like the World Economic Forum Global Future Council on Complex Risks. She is a recipient of the UK Commonwealth Scholarship and holds a Master of Science in Economics and Public Policy from the University of Sheffield.