Mukwandi Chibesakunda

IWA Team

August 10, 2026

Mukwandi Chibesakunda
CEO, Zambia National Commercial Bank (Zanaco) PLC

Mukwandi Chibesakunda is a notable personality in Zambia’s finance sector. Having committed over two decades to her career, she has held various key positions. Currently, she is Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of ZANACO Plc, a finance organisation delivering economic transformation through inclusive, future-ready financial services. Zambia National Commercial Bank Plc (ZANACO) was established in 1969 to serve the financial needs of the Zambian economy, and it has since evolved into a leading bank nationwide.

A major contributor to her sector and the economy of her country,  Chibesakunda’s  leadership emphasizes collaboration and strategic planning to drive sustainable growth and enhance financial services for their clients and the community at large.

Her view on mining and agriculture in Africa is noteworthy. Here is her call to action on this: “We must be bold as we redefine our continent for future success. Mining and Agriculture will remain cornerstones of our foundation, whilst Energy and Technology are our building blocks. We can do this.” She stated.

Mukwandi’s remarkable leadership and input resulted in being conferred with the title of Zambia’s Bank CEO of the Year for 2023 and 2024 by the Zambia Institute of Banking and Financial Services and the Bankers Association of Zambia.

She also received the ‘Best Overall Corporate Governance Individual Award’ from the Zambia Institute of Directors for 2024. Furthermore, the Zambia Women Judges Association acknowledged her exemplary achievements as one of the exceptional leaders of Zambia for the Year 2024, to mention a few. Indeed, her career reflects a commitment to fostering effective business strategies and risk management practices, and her focus remains on empowering teams and advancing organisational success in the evolving banking landscape.Mukwandi Chibesakunda holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from the University of Zambia and a Master’s in Business Administration from the United Kingdom’s Manchester University Alliance Business School. She is an alumnus of the Harvard Business School AMP Executive Program and the INSEAD Business School Women Leadership Program. She is also a Fellow of the Zambia Institute of Banking and Financial Services and the Zambia Institute of Directors.