President Hakainde Hichilema has backed the introduction of a 24-hour economy following Cabinet approval of a policy designed to expand productivity, extend business activity, and increase economic output across Zambia. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to business growth.
The decision marks a significant shift in how economic activity will be structured, with government setting a direction that encourages round-the-clock operations in sectors capable of sustaining continuous production and service delivery. Cabinet’s approval provides the policy foundation, while Hichilema’s backing places the initiative at the centre of Zambia’s economic agenda, demonstrating the importance of Cabinet in shaping economic strategies.
Hichilema has positioned the 24-hour economy as part of a broader strategy to drive growth, create employment, and improve utilisation of existing infrastructure. Extending operational hours allows businesses to maximise capacity, increase output, and generate additional revenue without necessarily expanding physical infrastructure, highlighting the role of Cabinet in facilitating these changes.
The policy is expected to affect multiple sectors, including manufacturing, retail, transport, and services. Businesses operating under the model will have the opportunity to run shifts that extend beyond traditional working hours, creating space for increased productivity and new job opportunities.
Cabinet’s approval signals government’s commitment to implementing the framework, with institutions now expected to align their operations to support extended economic activity. This includes adjustments in labour structures, service provision, and regulatory oversight.
Energy supply has emerged as a central issue in discussions around implementation. Fuel availability and pricing remain critical factors that will determine how effectively businesses can operate under a 24-hour model. Reliable energy is essential for sustaining continuous production, transport, and service delivery.
Recent concerns around fuel supply have added complexity to the rollout. Reports of uneven availability and the possibility of price adjustments linked to global market conditions have raised questions about how businesses will manage operating costs under extended hours.
Hichilema’s administration has acknowledged the importance of aligning supporting systems with the policy direction. Ensuring stable fuel supply, consistent electricity provision, and adequate infrastructure remains central to the success of the initiative.
The relationship between energy and economic activity is direct. Transport systems depend on fuel to move goods and people, while industries require both fuel and electricity to sustain production. Any disruption in these inputs can affect output and increase operational costs.
Government is expected to address these challenges through coordinated measures aimed at stabilising supply chains and supporting key sectors. The objective is to create an environment in which businesses can operate predictably and efficiently under extended hours.
The policy also introduces changes in how labour is organised. Businesses adopting a 24-hour model will need to implement shift systems, adjust working conditions, and ensure compliance with labour regulations. These changes will require careful management to balance productivity with worker welfare.
Hichilema’s backing reflects a broader push to reposition Zambia’s economy toward higher levels of efficiency and output. The approach aligns with efforts to create jobs and expand economic participation, particularly among young people entering the workforce.
Public response to the policy has reflected both optimism and caution. The potential for job creation and increased economic activity has been widely acknowledged. At the same time, concerns remain about whether supporting systems are sufficiently developed to sustain continuous operations.
Cabinet’s decision places responsibility on multiple institutions to ensure that the policy is implemented effectively. Coordination between government agencies, private sector players, and service providers will be essential in translating the framework into practical outcomes.
The introduction of a 24-hour economy represents a structural shift rather than a short-term measure. Its success will depend on how well different components of the economy adapt to the new model and how effectively challenges are managed.
Hichilema’s endorsement signals strong political support for the initiative, reinforcing its position as a key element of Zambia’s economic direction. The administration has framed the policy as a pathway toward increased productivity and long-term growth.
The coming period will be critical in determining how the model is rolled out and how businesses respond to the opportunities and challenges it presents. Implementation will require adjustments across sectors, with outcomes shaped by both policy execution and market conditions.
The interaction between fuel supply, pricing, and extended operations will remain a central factor. Ensuring that energy inputs remain stable will be essential in maintaining confidence among businesses and sustaining momentum.
The policy places Zambia on a path toward a more flexible and extended economic structure, with the potential to reshape how work and production are organised. The extent to which this potential is realised will depend on alignment between policy, infrastructure, and operational capacity.
