Private Sector Development Chairperson Yusuf Dodia has expressed concerns that the 2025 national budget may be overly ambitious in addressing Zambia’s pressing economic issues. With the budget increasing from K178 billion in 2024 to K217 billion in 2025—a rise of approximately K40 billion—Dodia emphasizes the need for substantial economic development to effectively utilize these funds.
Economic Challenges Remain Unaddressed
Mr. Dodia points out that the government's failure to provide visible solutions to ongoing issues such as load shedding, high electricity tariffs, soaring fuel prices, a fluctuating kwacha, and persistent inflation will hinder any potential economic turnaround.
“It will be challenging to see improvements in the economy without concrete strategies to tackle these pressing challenges,” he stated.
Prioritizing Solutions in the National Budget
Dodia believes that significant portions of the 2025 budget should have focused on prioritizing mechanisms to resolve these issues to foster real development. He argues that without addressing these foundational problems, the ambitious budget may not yield the desired outcomes.
Insights from Agriculture and Mining Sectors
Echoing Dodia's concerns, Conservation Agriculture Advocate and Researcher Dr. Oliver Bulaya asserts that Zambia's anticipated economic recovery in 2025 will largely depend on the resilience of the agriculture and mining sectors. He emphasizes the importance of prudent budget management to achieve meaningful results.