LUSAKA — Water Development and Sanitation Minister Collins Nzovu says Zambia does not need a perfect economy to implement a 24-hour economic model, stressing that the country already has the necessary foundation to support the system.
In a statement issued to ZNBC News in Lusaka, Nzovu said Zambia’s economy is functional and supported by a reform-driven government and an active private sector.
He noted that the country’s economy, valued at over US$30 billion, is diversified across key sectors including mining, agriculture, tourism, transport, energy and manufacturing.
Nzovu further highlighted that more than one million small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are currently operating in Zambia, many of which could benefit from extended business hours under a 24-hour economy.
He added that several sectors are already operating beyond normal working hours, making the transition more practical.
“Key sectors such as hospitals, mining, transport services, security agencies and border posts already operate beyond normal hours, making the shift to a 24-hour economy feasible,” he said.
Nzovu’s remarks come in response to concerns raised by Citizens First president Harry Kalaba, who questioned Zambia’s capacity to implement the model.
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