Zambia Records Gains Across Key Economic Sectors - HH

By Ellen Hambuba

President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA says Government reforms in the education sector, coupled with increased Constituency Development Fund –CDF- allocations, are already producing measurable results.

Speaking live on Diamond TV, which hosted Information and Media Permanent Secretary THABO KAWANA, President HICHILEMA pointed to improved pass rates in public schools as clear evidence that policy interventions are yielding results.

He attributed the progress to the free education policy, expansion of the school feeding programme, recruitment of additional teachers, and Government’s decision to cover examination fees for learners.

The President explained that a reduced pupil-to-teacher ratio and improved learning environments, including desks and classroom infrastructure financed through CDF, have enhanced learner concentration and academic performance.

President HICHILEMA said CDF is changing communities by enabling constituencies to directly prioritise and fund local development projects such as schools, health facilities, roads and skills training programmes.

Meanwhile, President HICHILEMA said Zambia’s improved electricity supply is the outcome of long-term planning and structural reforms rather than political convenience.

He said Government adopted a deliberate and diversified approach to energy generation following power shortages caused by drought.

The President disclosed that Zambia has increased electricity imports from Zimbabwe through the Southern African Power Pool, raising import capacity to about 400 megawatts from the previous range of 200 to 250 megawatts.

President HICHILEMA also cited accelerated investment in solar energy projects and increased private sector participation in power generation, working alongside ZESCO and independent power producers.

He dismissed claims linking the improved power supply to election campaigns, saying the gains stem from consistent reforms implemented since the UPND administration assumed office.

President HICHILEMA assured Zambians that Government is strengthening resilience against future droughts and said that within the next two to three years, the country will have adequate electricity supply regardless of rainfall patterns.

He further cited progress in mining, agriculture and education, saying the alignment of positive economic indicators reflects the impact of sustained policy reforms.