"The GOAT Media Centre"

Key weaknesses include energy, MSME financing, and lack of financial inclusion measures By Francis Maingaila Lusaka,  Zambia24  - (Oct. 1, 2025) — The Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ) has warned that while the 2026 National Budget is ambitious, it falls short in tackling critical structural weaknesses in energy, financial inclusion, and support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Speaking at a media briefing at the Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) in Lusaka, EAZ President Dr. Oswald Mungule said the association recommends integrating GDP and national income into budget planning, developing a national balance sheet, diversifying the energy mix, expanding mobile money infrastructure, and lowering transaction costs for low-income users. “The 2026 National Budget is a commendable effort, but it must evolve,” Dr. Mungule said.  “It must confront the energy crisis, empower underserved communities, and catalyze private sector growth.” Dr. Mungule...

... A New Economic Strategy for Inclusive Economic Development for All People Living in Zambia By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia – The Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR), in collaboration with the Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ) and the Ministry of Finance, has called for a reassessment of Zambia’s economic policies to ensure they address poverty and inequality through inclusivity and equity. This initiative is supported by the Norwegian Church Aid, which has provided crucial backing to strengthen efforts aimed at fostering equitable and inclusive economic policies. Acting Permanent Secretary for Planning and Administration at the Ministry of Finance, Prudence Kaoma, said during a public discussion themed “Is Zambia’s Economic Development Model Truly Inclusive?” held at Radisson Blu that Zambia should urgently tackle poverty and inequality. She noted that 60% of Zambians live below the national poverty line, with rural areas disproportionately affected at 78% compared t...

.... Partnership to focus on economic advisory, public engagement, and capacity-building initiatives. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24 – (23-10-2024) - Kuyuma Development Limited and the Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today, marking the beginning of a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening collaboration in economic advisory, public engagement, and capacity-building programs.  This partnership is set to bridge the gap between policy formulation and execution, a challenge that has long hindered effective implementation of economic strategies in Zambia. During the signing ceremony, held in Lusaka, Beatrice Nkanza, Chairperson of Kuyuma Development Limited, underscored the importance of cooperative efforts in tackling the complexities of policy execution. “There is often a gap between policy and execution, which creates challenges in ensuring continuity,” Nkanza stated.  “This partnership is vital for providing solutions and supp...