Lusaka, Zambia – The Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR) and the Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ) convened a high-profile public forum today at the Radisson Blu Hotel under the theme “Inclusive Growth: Is This Achievable?” The event brought together key stakeholders, policymakers, and experts to address the pressing question of whether Zambia can achieve equitable economic growth for all its citizens.
The forum featured prominent figures, including EAZ President Dr. Oswald Mungule, Acting Permanent Secretary for Planning and Administration at the Ministry of Finance, Madam Prudence Kaoma, renowned economist Mr. Trevor Hambayi, CSPR Executive Director Ms. Isabel Mukelabai, and Mr. Yosuf Dodia, a leading voice in Zambia’s private sector development.
The discussions centered on critical areas such as policy frameworks, sustainable development strategies, and fostering equitable opportunities for Zambia’s population. Panelists emphasized the need for inclusive approaches that bridge the gap between urban and rural development, ensuring that economic benefits are distributed fairly across various demographics and regions.
Speaking during the forum, Dr. Mungule highlighted the importance of inclusive growth in fostering a resilient economy. “Inclusive growth is not just a moral imperative but a critical foundation for sustainable economic development. We must ensure that every Zambian has access to opportunities that improve their quality of life,” he stated.
Madam Kaoma echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the government’s role in creating a conducive environment for equitable development. “Policy frameworks must address the systemic challenges that perpetuate inequality, focusing on sectors such as education, health, and infrastructure to drive inclusive growth,” she said.
Ms. Mukelabai from CSPR underscored the necessity of multi-stakeholder collaboration in tackling inequality. “The fight against poverty and inequality requires the collective effort of policymakers, civil society, and the private sector. Platforms like this forum provide the opportunity to share insights and align on strategies,” she said.
Renowned economist Mr. Hambayi delved into the challenges hindering inclusive growth, including inadequate access to credit for small-scale entrepreneurs and the need for stronger investments in agriculture and technology. “For Zambia to achieve inclusive growth, we must address the structural barriers that keep a significant portion of the population from participating fully in the economy,” he noted.
Mr. Dodia called for an emphasis on private sector engagement, arguing that public-private partnerships (PPPs) are vital to driving economic transformation. “The private sector is a key engine of growth, but we must ensure that its activities align with national development goals to maximize impact,” he said.
The forum concluded with a commitment to actionable steps for advancing inclusive growth. Participants agreed that fostering dialogue and collaboration among diverse stakeholders is paramount to creating a more equitable Zambia.
The event serves as a reminder that addressing inequality and achieving inclusive growth requires not only well-crafted policies but also collective effort from every sector of society. With platforms like the CSPR-EAZ Public Forum, Zambia is taking significant steps toward building a more inclusive and prosperous future for all its citizens.
