Economist Naylor Kopakopa has urged Zambians to brace for economic hardships stemming from trade disruptions, diminished productivity, and a decline in tourism due to the current cholera outbreak.
Mr Kopakopa tells Phoenix News that the cholera outbreak has disrupted trade activities in affected areas, especially the food business which is witnessing less demand.
Mr Kopakopa also notes that the economic burden of treating cholera patients is substantial with the government forced to allocate unplanned resources towards healthcare infrastructure and supplies at the expense of development.
He adds that efforts must be made to control the spread of cholera and to mitigate its economic consequences through improved healthcare systems and long-term preventive measures.
PHOENIX NEWS