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The Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR) has expressed optimism about the 2025 national budget, citing promising developments that could drive economic growth.
The reopening of major mining assets and a focus on infrastructure development are among the key highlights.
ZIPAR Interim Executive Director, Zali Chikuba, said the budget offered room for optimism and reflected a positive economic outlook.
This optimism is underpinned by the reopening of the Konkola Copper Mine (KCM) and Mopani Copper Mines (MCM), alongside a renewed emphasis on infrastructure development.
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“The 2025 national budget shows that there is room for optimism and reflects a positive outlook,” said Chikuba during ZIPAR’s analysis of the 2025 budget at the institute’s offices in Lusaka on Thursday.
“This is supported by the reopening of the two major mine assets at KCM and MCM, coupled with increased focus on infrastructure development, among other factors.”
However, Chikuba cautioned against complacency, stressing the need for a balanced approach.
“But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. The path ahead is challenging, and we must balance ambition with realism. Or, as they say, we must keep our feet firmly on the ground while our heads remain in the clouds!” he said.
Chikuba also highlighted the significance of the budget’s theme, “Building Resilience for Inclusive Growth and Improved Livelihoods,” noting that it captures the dual challenges facing Zambia’s economy.
In addition, he welcomed the introduction of a smart invoicing system aimed at improving value-added tax (VAT) compliance.
“The introduction of a smart invoicing system to improve VAT compliance is a positive move,” said Chikuba.
He said: “But of course, we must remember that while technology may be smart, we still need smart implementation to make it work!”
Another central focus of the budget, according to Chikuba, is the governance reform agenda.
He emphasized that stronger governance systems were crucial for Zambia to maximize the use of its limited resources.
“Governance reforms are a key issue in the 2025 budget, and stronger systems are vital if we are to make the best use of our limited resources,” Chikuba added.
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