Government says major objectives under the 8th National Development Plan have been achieved over the past four years.
Minister of Finance and National Planning Situmbeko Musokotwane cited debt restructuring as a key milestone, noting that Zambia’s default had previously discouraged investors.
He expressed satisfaction that the restructuring deal has restored confidence and attracted new investment.
Speaking at the official opening of the 2025 fourth-quarter National Development Coordinating Committee (NDCC) meeting, Dr. Musokotwane also highlighted the revival of the mining sector, which had suffered from an unstable policy environment.
Dr. Musokotwane said reversing this instability has allowed mining firms to resume operations, benefiting communities reliant on the industry.
The Minister emphasized that the economy has recorded consistent growth over the last four years.
On the cost of living, he clarified that lower inflation does not automatically translate into reduced household expenses.
Dr. Musokotwane however, stressed that increased production and collective hard work are the only sustainable solutions, while assuring that government will continue creating a conducive environment for productivity.
“But inflation coming down is not the same as the cost of living going down, the issue of the cost of living is not going to be solved by prices of commodities going down,” he noted.
“So the way we are going to solve the issue of the cost of living is by all of us working harder,” he urged.
Looking ahead, Dr. Musokotwane said the government’s 2026 agenda is focused on expanding the economy further, urging public sector workers to adopt a supportive mindset toward private enterprise.
He underscored that no country has developed without strong private sector participation.
Meanwhile, Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa called for consolidating the gains made in 2025 and strengthening coordination across all sectors.
Mr Kangwa urged faster delivery in areas where implementation has lagged, as the 8th National Development Plan nears completion.
He emphasized the NDCC’s role in fostering synergies among stakeholders and ensuring realistic, results-driven resolutions to advance national development.
Trickle down effect?