Zambia to Outpace African Peers with 5.2% Growth in 2025, Says IMF

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected Zambia's economy to grow by 5.2% in 2025, significantly outpacing the 4.1% average growth anticipated for most African countries. The Fund attributes this robust forecast to easing inflation, improved liquidity, strong investor confidence, sustained progress in governance, fiscal management, and increased private sector participation. 

IMF Resident Representative Eric Lautier explained that while Zambia's growth was initially projected at 5.8%, the forecast was revised downward due to energy sector challenges affecting production capacity.

Speaking during Thursday's presentation of the IMF's Economic Outlook for African Countries, Mr Lautier emphasized that despite these headwinds, Zambia's growth trajectory remains strong relative to its regional peers.

He also confirmed that the country has achieved 94% completion of its external debt restructuring—a critical milestone expected to substantially reduce the nation's debt burden and strengthen long-term economic stability.