Together, Let Us Deliver Zambia’s Harvest

Writing in News Diggers this morning, President Hakainde Hichilema reflects on four years of reform and resilience, mapping Zambia’s journey from debt crisis and economic collapse to recovery and renewed growth. He emphasises the progress that has been made in restoring financial stability, restructuring debt, attracting investment, and laying the foundation for inclusive prosperity. President Hichilema acknowledges the ongoing challenges that Zambia faces, from drought to energy shortages, but stresses that national transformation is a collective effort, driven by determination, and the belief that every citizen deserves the chance to fulfil their potential.

“In February, we had the privilege of welcoming a truly remarkable Zambian, Ms. Dorothy Kamanisha, a pupil from Solwezi who, with courage, returned to the classroom in Grade Nine at the age of 42. Her decision is a powerful reminder that talent and potential know no age, gender, or circumstance. What matters is whether the doors of opportunity are open. Our responsibility in Government is to ensure those doors remain wide open. So that every Zambian has the chance to step through and fulfil their innate promise.

Dorothy’s story is not just inspiring. It is instructive because it shows what is possible when opportunity meets determination. Her journey reflects the same principle now driving our national recovery: when the right conditions exist, Zambians rise. In Bloomberg’s latest economic outlook, Zambia is set to become the fastest-growing country in the world this year. Growth is projected to exceed 6%, the highest rate since 2018, at a time when many economies are slowing. It is a remarkable testament to the resilience, entrepreneurship and determination of our people.

Growth matters. It means more jobs, better pay, improved public services and expanding opportunities for the Zambian people. It is the platform that enables all to fulfil their potential.

Our agenda is about building a Zambia where every citizen can find their own path to dignity and progress. Where families have food on the table and a roof over their head; where children grow up with quality education, good healthcare, and good jobs waiting for them; where farmers reap fair rewards and communities are connected by strong roads and reliable power.

It is a Zambia where young women can turn dreams into destinies, and young men know their future is theirs to shape. Where our markets buzz with local innovation, our villages shine with clean energy, and our copper and cobalt fuel not just exports, but new factories, new industries, and new jobs right here at home. This is the Zambia we are building together.

We came to office in 2021 with no illusions about the hurdles our country faced. In late 2020, at the height of the pandemic, Zambia became the first African country to default on its sovereign debt – though the global crisis was not to blame. Reckless borrowing and profligate corruption had gutted the economy, eroded investor confidence and diminished basic services across the nation. In 2016, debt stood at 32% of GDP. By 2021 it had ballooned to 120%. 

This was the Zambia that voters saw in August 2021, a nation in crisis, on the edge of collapse. In that moment of instability and uncertainty, you chose change. Four years on, that courage at the ballot box laid the foundation for the transformation we are witnessing today.

This transformation is not without challenges, and we know the patience and discipline it has required. We pursue reform, not for its popularity, but for its necessity.

It was this commitment to discipline that led to the breakthrough debt restructuring of June 2024, covering 90% of the liabilities left behind by the previous administration. These were some of the most favourable terms achieved anywhere in recent years. Our debt to GDP ratio is now under 100% for the first time in seven years. That means less money going to foreign lenders, and more going into our communities.

We are driving change, tilling the fields. We opened up and stabilised the mining sector to responsible investment, attracting fresh projects in copper and cobalt and partnerships to build smelters and refineries. At the same time, we have expanded support for small and medium enterprises, strengthened agricultural extension and input programmes, and reformed tax administration. These are practical reforms designed to create jobs, deepen value-addition, and ensure the wealth beneath our feet benefits every Zambian.

There are clear signs of progress. Since 2021, $54 billion has been pledged in investment, and Zambia now has one of the best performing currencies in the world. We are on track to produce more than a million tonnes of copper this year. These gains show what is possible when reform is sustained, and why we must keep going. Our focus has never been on the day’s headlines, but on building a foundation strong enough to deliver prosperity for generations to come.

The journey has not been easy. We are coming through a once-in-a-generation drought and the load-shedding that followed tests the resilience of businesses and families alike. Significant reform is still required. We have much more work to do. 

But we have a plan. We are diversifying our energy grid with solar, strengthening food security, and supporting families through cash for work. Today’s Zambia does not shy away from challenges, nor does it borrow or obfuscate its way out.

A credit upgrade is within reach. Investment in renewable energy and food security continues. Opportunity is expanding for miners, farmers and entrepreneurs. And our democracy, strengthened by peace and stability, remains the foundation for success.

In 2021 Zambians rejected the chaos and mismanagement of the past and chose peace, stability and a vision. Our progress is a shared achievement, and the results will be a shared prosperity.

But we do not mistake progress for completion; transformation is a journey, not a destination. The road will not always be smooth. But together, we can finish the work we have started.

Dorothy’s return to the classroom teaches us that determination can rewrite any story. So too can Zambia’s resolve to rewrite our national story. Four years ago, we chose change. Today, we are proving that change is possible. And tomorrow, we will show that nothing can stand in the way of a united and determined Zambia.

Together, let us deliver Zambia’s harvest.”

The Author is President of the Republic of Zambia