President Hakainde Hichilema has unveiled an ambitious plan to drive economic growth and job creation in Zambia as he highlighted several key initiatives aimed at stimulating national development.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Vice President W.K. Mutale Nalumango at the Public-Private Dialogue Forum (PPDF)-Private Sector Day, President Hichilema emphasised the importance of partnership between the public and private sectors in driving economic development.
The President said PPDF is a key platform for promoting economic growth and development, reiterating government’s commitment to engaging the private sector as a close partner in national development.
“We believe that the private sector is our close partner in national development. We are committed to creating a conducive business environment that encourages investment, innovation, and job creation,” President Hichilema said.
The president said that the plan focuses on various sectors, including energy, agriculture, and infrastructure development.
He revealed that government has made significant strides in the energy sector, having implemented 62 rural electrification projects, including 19 solar mini-grids. This initiative is expected to provide 3,421 new connections by the end of the year, expanding access to electricity in rural areas and promoting economic development.
He expressed his happiness that the agriculture sector has also received attention, with a focus on improved production of maize, wheat, soybeans, and other crops, as well as irrigation development.
“We want to ensure that Zambia becomes a hub for renewable energy in the region. We are committed to promoting the use of solar, wind, and hydropower to reduce our reliance on traditional sources of energy,” he said.
Mr. Hichilema also highlighted Zambia’s progress in education, health services, and the mining industry, further predicting increased teacher and health worker employment and new mine openings for economic growth.
“We are committed to ensuring that the mining sector benefits all Zambians, not just a few individuals. We will work to ensure that the sector is transparent, accountable, and contributes to the overall development of our country,” President Hichilema said.
He also emphasised government’s will to tackle climate change’s concerns, pointing to the National Green Growth Strategy 2024-2030’s introduction as a major milestone in Zambia’s transition to a resilient, low-carbon economy.
The President’s remarks come at a time when Zambia is facing significant economic challenges, including high unemployment rates, particularly among the youth, but President Hichilema is hopeful that with government’s commitment to job creation and economic growth, the country will experience a turnaround. Read more
Wednesday, February 19, 2025