Ministry of Finance and National Planning, #mofnp, Lusaka-Zambia, P. O BOX 50062, Chimanga Road, Lusaka (2025)

03/11/2025

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF A STRONG GRZ/WORLD BANK RELATIONSHIP TO YOUNG ZAMBIANS

Zambia’s partnership with the World Bank just got stronger — and it’s a big deal for every young Zambian shaping the nation’s future.

On Monday, 3rd November 2025, at the Ministry of Finance and National Planning in Lusaka, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, Minister of Finance and National Planning, met with Ms. Anna Bjerde, the World Bank Managing Director for Operations, to reaffirm this enduring partnership — one that’s helping to build an economy ready for your generation to lead.

The discussions focused on two things that directly affect our lives and livelihoods:

- How the World Bank’s ongoing support is boosting Zambia’s recovery and reform momentum; and,

- The Lobito Corridor, a game-changing transport and energy project linking Zambia to the Atlantic Ocean through Angola.

What This Means for Young Zambians

If you’re a young adult Zambian, this partnership is about your tomorrow. It’s about the jobs you’ll do, the businesses you’ll build, and the energy, technology, and transport systems that will power your dreams.

Here’s how:

1) Digital Zambia Acceleration Project – driving faster internet, digital payments, and online government services.

2) Clean Energy Transformation (ASCENT) – expanding renewable power and creating green jobs.

3) Transforming Landscapes – protecting the environment while creating rural livelihoods.

4) Health System Innovation – modernising healthcare with smart technologies.

5) Development Policy Financing – ensuring financial stability to fund public services.

These are not just big government projects; they are platforms for you — the entrepreneurs, coders, farmers, engineers, and creatives — to thrive in a fast-changing world.

Shifting from Stability to Productivity

Dr. Musokotwane reminded the nation that growth is not a by-product of reform — it’s the mission itself.

“Every kwacha we spend must translate into productivity, jobs, and opportunity for citizens,” he said.

He explained that the Government’s collaboration with the World Bank has helped Zambia overcome challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, droughts, and debt pressures. Now, the focus is on building an economy that works for everyone — especially young people ready to take charge.

Energy diversification stands out as a top priority. The Minister noted that Zambia is working with the World Bank and the IFC to attract private investment into renewable power. This means more reliable electricity for homes, industries, and tech start-ups — the lifeblood of modern opportunity.

The Lobito Corridor: Zambia’s New Gateway to Growth

Imagine exporting goods from Zambia straight to the Atlantic coast — faster, cheaper, and more efficiently. That’s what the Lobito Corridor is all about.

The final feasibility study confirms that the 830-kilometre Zambia–Lobito Rail Line is commercially viable. Once complete, it will create thousands of jobs in construction, transport, logistics, agriculture, and manufacturing.

Dr. Musokotwane put it simply:

“For the past three years we’ve been laying the groundwork. Now it’s time to move from plans to results. Let the cargo move — our minerals, agricultural produce, and manufactured goods must reach regional and global markets.”

For young Zambians, this means more than just trains — it means new value chains, business opportunities, and career paths that will define the economy for decades.

A Future Powered by Partnership

Ms. Anna Bjerde of the World Bank praised Zambia’s progress and commitment to reform.
“It is truly inspiring to see how far Zambia has come. Your experience shows that with commitment, clear direction, and partnership, progress is possible even under difficult circumstances.”

She noted that Zambia’s project implementation and job-creation focus are among the best in Africa. The World Bank plans to deepen its collaboration in energy, infrastructure, human capital, and climate resilience — all key to securing a sustainable future.

“The Lobito Corridor is more than transport infrastructure,” she added. “It’s an engine for inclusive growth — integrating agriculture, manufacturing, logistics, and services.”

The Takeaway for Young Citizens

This partnership is not just about government meetings and big numbers — it’s about building your economy, your energy systems, and your opportunities.

The decisions being made today will shape the Zambia you inherit — a country driven by innovation, powered by clean energy, connected to global markets, and anchored on fiscal discipline and inclusive growth.

As Dr. Musokotwane summed it up:

“This partnership is not just about projects — it’s about people, productivity, and progress.”

In Short

Zambia and the World Bank are working together to:

1) Expand renewable energy and reliable power supply;

2) Build the Lobito Corridor to unlock trade and jobs;

3) Support youth entrepreneurship and digital innovation;

4) Modernize health, education, and agriculture systems; and,

5) Strengthen public finance and transparency.

This is your economy in the making — and your moment to own it.

World Bank Africa
Embassy of the Republic of Zambia - Washington D.C Embassy of the Republic of Zambia-Brazil Situmbeko Musokotwane Presidential Delivery Unit Zambia

31/10/2025

NDCC

THE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT COORDINATING COMMITTEE (NDCC) MEETING—MULUNGUSHI INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTER, LUSAKA.

The NDCC is one of Zambia’s highest-level inter-institutional coordination platforms for national planning, policy alignment, and implementation oversight.

It operates under the Ministry of Finance and National Planning (MoFNP) and serves as the principal technical advisory body to Government on the formulation, coordination, and monitoring of national development policies, plans, and strategies.

1. Composition

The NDCC is typically chaired by the *Secretary to the CABINET* on behalf of the Minister of Finance and National Planning and draws membership from:

- Deputy Secretary's to the Cabinet, including the Secretary to the Treasury and the Head PDU;

- Permanent Secretaries across all line ministries;

- Provincial Permanent Secretaries;

- Heads of statutory bodies and key institutions; and,

- Representatives from cooperating partners, private sector, and civil society.

It therefore functions as a *whole-of-government coordination mechanism*, ensuring that all ministries and agencies are aligned to Zambia’s long-term development vision and Development Plans (E.g.8NDP).

2. Key Role and Functions

The NDCC’s core mandate is to coordinate and harmonise national development efforts.

Its main functions include:

a. Policy and Planning Coordination

- Reviewing and endorsing sectoral and provincial development plans to ensure consistency with the National Vision 2030 and the 8NDP.

- Facilitating cross-sectoral integration, avoiding duplication, and ensuring coherence among programmes and projects.

b. Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)

- Reviewing progress reports on the implementation of development plans and key reform programmes.

- Identifying bottlenecks and recommending corrective measures for improved performance.

c. Advisory Function

- Providing technical advice to Cabinet through the Ministry of Finance and National Planning on national development priorities, policies, and resource allocation.

d. Coordination of Development Cooperation

- Serving as a liaison platform between Government and cooperating partners to ensure external assistance aligns with national priorities and planning cycles.

e. Knowledge Sharing and Accountability

- Promoting inter-ministerial dialogue and peer learning on development policy ex*****on.

- Strengthening accountability for results across government sectors.

3. Linkages with Other Structures

The NDCC operates through a tiered coordination framework, including:

- Sector Advisory Groups (SAGs) – which handle technical-level coordination in specific sectors;

- Provincial Development Coordinating Committees (PDCCs) and District Development Coordinating Committees (DDCCs) – which handle local-level implementation and feedback;

The NDCC consolidates inputs from these levels into a national perspective.

4. Summary

In essence, the NDCC is Zambia’s central nerve centre for planning coherence, ensuring that the Government’s economic and social policies are harmonised, evidence-based, and aligned to national and international development commitments.

It plays a pivotal role in translating strategic vision into operational results — serving as the bridge between planning and implementation, and the platform through which national priorities are coordinated, tracked, and refined.

31/10/2025

THE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT COORDINATING COMMITTEE (NDCC)

This is one of Zambia’s highest-level inter-institutional coordination platforms for national planning, policy alignment, and implementation oversight.

It operates under the Ministry of Finance and National Planning (MoFNP) and serves as the principal technical advisory body to Government on the formulation, coordination, and monitoring of national development policies, plans, and strategies.

1. Composition

The NDCC is typically chaired by the *Secretary to the CABINET* on behalf of the Minister of Finance and National Planning and draws membership from:

- Deputy Secretary's to the Cabinet, including the Secretary to the Treasury and the Head PDU;

- Permanent Secretaries across all line ministries;

- Provincial Permanent Secretaries;

- Heads of statutory bodies and key institutions; and,

- Representatives from cooperating partners, private sector, and civil society.

It therefore functions as a *whole-of-government coordination mechanism*, ensuring that all ministries and agencies are aligned to Zambia’s long-term development vision and Development Plans (E.g.8NDP).

2. Key Role and Functions

The NDCC’s core mandate is to coordinate and harmonise national development efforts.

Its main functions include:

a. Policy and Planning Coordination

- Reviewing and endorsing sectoral and provincial development plans to ensure consistency with the National Vision 2030 and the 8NDP.

- Facilitating cross-sectoral integration, avoiding duplication, and ensuring coherence among programmes and projects.

b. Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)

- Reviewing progress reports on the implementation of development plans and key reform programmes.

- Identifying bottlenecks and recommending corrective measures for improved performance.

c. Advisory Function

- Providing technical advice to Cabinet through the Ministry of Finance and National Planning on national development priorities, policies, and resource allocation.

d. Coordination of Development Cooperation

- Serving as a liaison platform between Government and cooperating partners to ensure external assistance aligns with national priorities and planning cycles.

e. Knowledge Sharing and Accountability

- Promoting inter-ministerial dialogue and peer learning on development policy ex*****on.

- Strengthening accountability for results across government sectors.

3. Linkages with Other Structures

The NDCC operates through a tiered coordination framework, including:

- Sector Advisory Groups (SAGs) – which handle technical-level coordination in specific sectors;

- Provincial Development Coordinating Committees (PDCCs) and District Development Coordinating Committees (DDCCs) – which handle local-level implementation and feedback;

The NDCC consolidates inputs from these levels into a national perspective.

4. Summary

In essence, the NDCC is Zambia’s central nerve centre for planning coherence, ensuring that the Government’s economic and social policies are harmonised, evidence-based, and aligned to national and international development commitments.

It plays a pivotal role in translating strategic vision into operational results — serving as the bridge between planning and implementation, and the platform through which national priorities are coordinated, tracked, and refined.

30/10/2025

HIGH-LEVEL WORLD BANK MISSION VISITS ZAMBIA

The Minister of Finance and National Planning Dr SITUMBEKO MUSOKOTWANE, MP, is pleased to announce that a high-powered delegation from the World Bank Group visits Zambia for a mission that ends on 4th November, 2025.

The mission will comprise Ms. ANNA BJERDE World Bank Managing Director - Operations; Mr. NDIAME DIOP Vice President for Eastern and Southern Africa; and Mr. NATHAN BELETE, Country Director for Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe, among others. Mr. DIOP arrives this evening, Thursday 30th October, 2025, while Ms. BJERDE arrives tomorrow.

The visit follows productive engagements held by the Minister and his delegation during the 2025 IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., where Zambia reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to deepening fiscal reforms, accelerating private sector-led growth, and enhancing collaboration with development partners. In washing, the parties agreed to deepen collaboration on job creation, youth empowerment, and private-sector participation.

The high-level mission underscores the World Bank Group’s continued confidence in Zambia’s economic reform trajectory and its support for the country’s development priorities under the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP).

Key areas of focus during the visit include:

1) Strengthening collaboration on economic diversification, energy access, and green growth;

2) Advancing social protection and human capital investments, particularly in education and health;

3) Scaling up climate-resilient infrastructure and digital transformation programmes; and,

4) Reviewing progress under ongoing and pipeline World Bank-financed projects in Zambia.

The World Bank delegation will hold high level meetings with the Government and also engage the private sector, civil society, and development partners.

The visit reaffirms Zambia’s strong partnership with the World Bank Group, particularly in promoting inclusive and sustainable growth. The collaboration has been instrumental in supporting policy-based operations, budget support, and sectoral investments in energy, agriculture, education, health, and social protection.

The Ministry looks forward to constructive deliberations that will further align World Bank cooperation with Zambia’s priorities for job creation, poverty reduction, and economic resilience building.

Ends.

MAIN FILE PHOTO:

World Bank VP For East & Southern Africa NDIAME DIOP (left) & Zambia's Finance & National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane (right) wind-down after an engagement between the World Bank and the Zambian delegation which Dr Musokotwane led to the IMF/World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington D.C., USA).

30/10/2025

WHAT ZAMBIA’S 18.1% EXPANDED INTERNATIONAL TRADE MEANS FOR YOU AND FOR THE ECONOMY

~A Growing Trade Balance Reflects A Stronger Economy~

Zamstats has published monthly statistics for October, 2025. In their bulletin, they have indicated that Cumulative Total international trade increased by 18.1% in September 2025 compared to September 2024.

The above means that, Zambia’s trade in goods with the rest of the world grew by 18.1% between January and September 2025, compared to the same period, last year. It also means that more Zambian products — such as copper, cement, sugar, and manufactured goods — are being sold abroad, while the country is also importing vital equipment, fuel, and materials needed for local industries.

In simple terms, Zambia is doing more business with the world, which is good for our economy.

What it Means for Citizens

A bigger trade balance brings more foreign currency into the country, helping to stabilise the Kwacha. When the Kwacha is stable, the cost of imported goods — fuel, fertiliser, and machinery — becomes more predictable. This helps slow down price increases and keeps the cost of living manageable.

More trade also means more jobs in transport, logistics, agriculture, and manufacturing. For example, truck drivers, warehouse staff, customs agents, and farmers all benefit when exports grow.

What It Means for Businesses

1) For local businesses, growing trade shows that Zambia’s goods are becoming more competitive regionally and globally.

2) It opens opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to become suppliers to exporters, participate in value chains, and access new markets in neighbouring countries and beyond.

3) It also strengthens the case for foreign investors to set up factories or partnerships in Zambia, knowing there is a stable and expanding market.

What It Means for Zambia’s International Competitiveness

1) An expanding trade balance improves Zambia’s image as a country that is producing, exporting, and earning sustainably.

2) It demonstrates that our reforms are working — building trust among international partners, investors, and credit rating agencies.

3) In the long run, this helps attract more investment into industries that create jobs and value locally, instead of exporting only raw materials.

What the Government Can Do to Keep This Momentum

To sustain and expand this positive trend, the Government is:

1) Continuing to support exporters through efficient customs systems and reduced border delays;

2) Facilitating investments in infrastructure through PPP’s — roads, rail, energy — to lower the cost of doing business;

3) Promoting diversification so that agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism join mining as key export earners;

4) Encouraging local value addition by turning raw materials into finished products that fetch higher prices abroad; and,

5) Strengthening trade relations within the region and globally to open more markets for Zambian goods.

A growing trade balance is not just an economic number — it’s a sign that Zambia is earning more, creating jobs, and gaining recognition as a reliable trading partner.

When our exports grow, the nation grows — and every citizen feels the benefit through a stronger Kwacha, better opportunities, and a more stable cost of living.

Zambia is rising!

30/10/2025

ZAMBIA'S ECONOMY: ENCOURAGING PROGRESS FOR CITIZENS' & BUSINESS BENEFIT

Zambia’s economy continues to show firm signs of recovery and resilience, driven by the Government’s consistent implementation of reforms that safeguard stability, stimulate production, and expand opportunities for citizens and businesses alike. Indicators point to a strengthening foundation for sustainable growth—anchored on fiscal discipline, renewed investor confidence, and improved coordination across agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and services. The focus is clear: translate macro-economic stability into tangible results—jobs, enterprise expansion, and better livelihoods for every Zambian household.
..Zambia’s annual inflation slowed to 11.9 percent in October 2025, down from 12.3 percent in September 2025...

This means that while prices are still increasing, they are doing so at a slower pace. The main drivers of this moderation were smaller increases in both food (14.1 percent vs 14.6 percent) and non-food (8.7 percent vs 9.0 percent) categories.

For citizens, this signals that the cost of basic needs—meal-meal, fish, chicken, household goods, transport—has begun to stabilize, helping families plan their monthly budgets with more certainty.

Why it matters

- Lower inflation protects the value of people’s incomes.

- It helps farmers, traders, and small businesses forecast their input costs better.

- It shows that the Government’s reforms in fiscal management and food-supply coordination are working.
..ZAMBIA'S TRADE WITH THE WORLD EXPANDS BY OVER 18 PERCENT...

Between January and September 2025, Zambia’s total international merchandise trade reached K 489.1 billion, compared with K 414.2 billion in the same period 2024—an 18.1 percent increase.

Exports accounted for nearly K 245 billion, dominated by road transport (94 percent share), while imports and export volumes rose across key sectors such as copper, agriculture, and manufactured goods.

Why it matters

- Strong trade growth means more foreign-exchange earnings, which strengthens the Kwacha.

- It supports jobs in mining, transport, manufacturing, and logistics.

- It reflects Zambia’s growing competitiveness and improved regional and global market access.

The Bigger Picture – Stability Meets Opportunity

The declining inflation and rising trade-flows, together paint a story of renewed economic transformation momentum.

When the cost of living steadies and exports grow, both consumers and producers benefit—creating a virtuous cycle of investment, production, and employment.

Message to citizens

Zambia’s economy is steadily regaining its balance. Every shopkeeper, farmer, transporter, and student has a role in sustaining this progress—through productivity, innovation, and collective resolve.

Closing Reflection

The journey of economic recovery is never instant, but the direction is clear and encouraging. The stability we are now experiencing is the seedbed for future prosperity—one that will bear fruit through continued discipline, hard work, and shared commitment.

As the Government deepens reforms and citizens continue to play their part, Zambia stands on the threshold of a more inclusive, competitive, and resilient economy—where progress is not just measured in statistics, but felt in every household, market stall, and enterprise across our nation.

-Ends.

(Data Source: Zambia Statistics Agency, “The Monthly,” Vol. 271, October 2025)

29/10/2025

2025 IMF/WORLD BANK ANNUAL MEETINGS PLENARY (Recorded Earlier)

(c) International Monetary Fund World Bank IMF Africa World Bank Africa Situmbeko Musokotwane

Watch the 2025 WBG-IMF 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐌𝐞𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐏𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲, featuring remarks by:

✔ Annual Meetings Chairman, Olavo Avelino Garcia Correia, Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Business Development and Minister of Digital Economy of Cabo Verde.

✔ World Bank Group President Ajay Banga.

✔ Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund Kristalina Georgieva.

27/10/2025

MEDIA BRIEFING BY THE Hon. MINISTER OF FINANCE & NATIONAL PLANNING Dr. SITUMBEKO MUSOKOTWANE, MP.

27/10/2025

MOFNP SHOWS SOLIDARITY WITH BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS AND CITIZENS IMPACTED AND AFFECTED BY CANCER
...Permanent Secretary Kaoma Urges Early Screening for Lifesaving Detection...

The Ministry of Finance and National Planning has joined the rest of the nation in commemorating Breast Cancer Awareness Month, expressing deep solidarity with survivors, patients undergoing treatment, and families affected by the disease.

Speaking after a media briefing on debt restructuring by the Minister—Ministry of Finance and National Planning, , Lusaka-Zambia in Lusaka, Permanent Secretary for Planning and Administration, Ms. Prudence Kaoma, said the Ministry stood shoulder-to-shoulder with all Zambians confronting breast cancer, describing their journeys as stories of courage, perseverance, and hope.

“Behind every diagnosis lies a story of courage — of individuals who have faced fear with faith, pain with perseverance, and uncertainty with unyielding hope,” Ms. Kaoma said.

“To our colleagues within the Ministry and to families across Zambia who have walked this difficult path, we salute your resilience and celebrate your triumphs.”

She added that Breast Cancer Awareness Month serves as a national reminder that early detection saves lives, and that compassion, care, and community are powerful tools in the fight against cancer.

Ms. Kaoma reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment, through relevant structures of the Government, to supporting initiatives and communities that uphold health, wellness, and human dignity, stressing that collective strength and solidarity continue to inspire faith and healing across the country.

“Together, we honour the survivors, remember those we have lost, and stand firm in hope for a future free from cancer,” she said.

The Permanent Secretary further encouraged citizens and employees to undergo regular cancer screening and medical check-ups, noting that early detection offers the best chance for effective treatment.

She explained that timely testing allows for simpler medical interventions, shortens recovery time, and greatly improves survival rates — helping build what she described as “a healthier, more resilient nation where every life is valued and protected.”

The Ministry’s message aligns with national and global calls for increased awareness, screening, and support for those affected by breast cancer, as Zambia continues efforts to strengthen health systems and community wellness initiatives.

27/10/2025

MESSAGE OF SOLIDARITY & HOPE~BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH – OCTOBER 2025

This October, the Ministry of Finance and National Planning stands in unity and heartfelt solidarity with all survivors, those undergoing treatment, and the families and loved ones who continue to provide strength, comfort, and unwavering support.

We recognise that behind every diagnosis lies a story of courage — of individuals who have faced fear with faith, pain with perseverance, and uncertainty with unyielding hope. To our colleagues within the Ministry, and to families across who have walked this difficult path, we salute your resilience and celebrate your triumphs.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us that early detection saves lives and that compassion, care, and community can light even the darkest journeys. Let us continue to speak up, support one another, and spread awareness, so that no one faces this battle alone.

As a Ministry, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting initiatives and communities (through relevant structures) where health, wellness, and human dignity are upheld for all. May our collective strength continue to inspire faith and healing across the nation.

Together, we honour the survivors, remember those we have lost, and stand firm in hope for a future free from cancer.

We further encourage all employees and citizens to regularly go for and other health checks. Early detection offers the best chance of successful treatment — it allows for appropriate medical interventions, reduces recovery time, and greatly improves survival rates. By taking this proactive step, each one of us contributes to building a healthier, more resilient nation where every life is valued and protected

Delivered by:

Ms. Prudence Kaoma

Permanent Secretary Planning & Administration)

Ministry of Finance and National Planning, #mofnp, Lusaka-Zambia

03/11/2025

31/10/2025

31/10/2025

30/10/2025

30/10/2025

30/10/2025

29/10/2025

27/10/2025

27/10/2025

27/10/2025

Address

Telephone

Website

Alerts

Contact The Business

Shortcuts

Share

Category