Finance Minister addresses public concerns over economy following Afrobarometer survey

Following results from an Afrobarometer survey indicating that many Zambians are unhappy with the country’s current direction, the government has outlined a range of measures to improve sustainable livelihoods amid challenging economic conditions.

The survey revealed widespread dissatisfaction with the economy and Zambia’s overall trajectory. In response, Finance and National Planning Minister, Situmbeko Musokotwane, stated that the government had introduced several initiatives to help citizens, particularly those most vulnerable, manage the effects of recent drought and rising costs of living.

Speaking at a media briefing on Wednesday at the Ministry’s headquarters in Lusaka, Musokotwane acknowledged that public concerns center on the high cost of living, especially food prices, which have spiked due to drought.

“To support citizens, particularly the vulnerable, we have implemented measures including the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), which continues to be a critical support tool,” Musokotwane said.

He cited survey data, noting that in 2020, 77 percent of Zambians felt the country was heading in the wrong direction, while 22 percent believed it was on the right path.

By 2022, public opinion was more balanced, with 46 percent expressing concern and 51 percent approving of the direction.

However, the latest survey for 2024 showed that 66 percent now believe Zambia was moving in the wrong direction, with only 32 percent feeling positive about the country’s trajectory.

Musokotwane reiterated government’s commitment to supporting livelihoods and addressing economic challenges to improve public confidence.

The new Afro Barometer Survey was conducted by the Institute of Economic and Social Research (INESOR) of the University of Zambia (UNZA).

The Afro Barometer team in Zambia interviewed a nationally representative sample of 1,200 adult citizens of Zambia between July, 8 and July, 28, 2024.

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