DARLINGTON MWENDABAI
Lusaka
THE Zambia International Trade Fair (ZITF) is a flagship event, hosting different institutions from around the country and even across the borders for a special week of networking events, including entertainment for children.
ZITF is strategically situated on the Copperbelt, in Ndola, which is Zambia’s second-largest city and the nation’s biggest investment hub.
From business expos and corporate conferences to cultural festivals, concerts, and sporting events, ZITF’s versatile venue is the perfect setting for gatherings of all kinds, including activities for children.
According to management, ZITF has a distinguished history dating back to 1956, when it began as the ZITFS, hosting the Northern Rhodesia Show.
Following Zambia’s independence in 1964, the event expanded in scope and prestige, eventually becoming the ZITF.
This year’s show started on July 1 and went up to July 7, 2026, under the theme, “Bridging Markets; Building the Future”.
The ZITFS marks a significant milestone in the country’s trade and commerce calendar as it always offers a wide range of engaging activities, including a prestigious dinner gala, informative business seminars, and high-level stakeholder interactions.
For young people, a variety of activities are always lined up, especially starting from July 5, 2026, to the closing day, July 7, 2026, dates that have been reserved as trading and entertainment days.
From ZITF’s entertainment menu, children are offered a variety of entertainment options, including a kids’ play arena, an animal zoo, eating and educational tours.
The fairgrounds are designed to be family-friendly, with activities that cater to children’s interests and provide a fun-filled experience.
Families can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, explore different exhibits, and engage in activities that promote learning and creativity.
For example, through the educational tour, children were able to understand the history of ZITF and the products and services that exhibitors offer.
From the educational tours, young people learnt that since its inception in 1956, ZITF has evolved from a modest local exhibition into a world-class premier trade platform.
Other than the education tour, the mini train ride, operated by the Zambia Railways limited, is one activity never to miss during the Trade Fair.
The train ride, while being fun and exciting, offers the riders an opportunity to sightsee around the grounds as the train takes on a meandering route that cuts through different areas of the grounds.
As one makes their way through the entry gates, face-painting is usually the first activity to be undertaken before heading out to the kids’ play arena.
The arena has a variety of activities like jumping castles, water slides, and spinning wheels.
Alongside the kid’s arena are food kiosks selling sweets, ice cream, cotton candy and other foods that are appealing to the young people.
With so much fun, learning and adventure, the ZITF provides an unforgettable holiday experience while creating lasting memories with family and friends.
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