By Jane Chanda
Government says the consistent flow of funds from the treasury to ministries and spending agencies for development and uninterrupted public service delivery is a sign of policy effectiveness and consistency, which has helped the economy to remain buoyant despite energy and food security challenges.
In a statement yesterday, Dr Musokotwane highlighted the government’s commitment to reducing its indebtedness and attracting foreign direct investment to drive innovation and boost productivity.
He also emphasised the importance of financial inclusion, digital transformation, and fintech innovation in building a resilient economy that offered opportunities for all Zambians.
“The future of Zambia lies in our ability to innovate, include, and inspire,” Musokotwane stated. “With continued focus on financial inclusion, digital transformation, and fintech innovation, we are building a resilient economy that offers opportunities for all Zambians today and the future,” the minister said.
He stated that the government’s medium-term thrust was to upscale private sector investments, particularly in agriculture and livestock development, tourism, manufacturing, mining, energy, and the green economy.
Dr Musokotwane also stated that the government aimed to leverage modern technology and prioritise social protection interventions to safeguard the most vulnerable, drive economic growth, and build resilience.
“We are calling on more women to the table to engage; prioritising their financial access and the availability of credit to women-owned and managed Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs),” Dr Musokotwane stated. “Partnerships with organisations like Operation HOPE exemplify our dedication to inclusion and financial literacy, which are crucial components of economic empowerment.”
The minister also stated that digitization was key to unlocking economic potential.
Dr Musokotwane further stated that the National Digital Transformation Strategy 2023-2027 outlined the government’s path towards a digital economy and the creation of an enabling environment for digital innovation and entrepreneurship.
” We are determined to collaborate with stakeholders to intensify efforts to educate and empower all Zambians to fully participate in the digital economy,” stated Dr Musokotwane.
