By Cecilia Chiluba/Zambia/Lusaka
Government says Zambia’s positive economic outlook for 2026 is anchored on accelerating the country’s transition to middle-income status through inclusive growth and equitable development.
The Zambian Government has set ambitious targets for 2026, projecting a 6.4 percent Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.
This growth will be driven by expansion in the mining sector, recovery in agriculture, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), and improved electricity supply.
Government plans include surpassing one million tonnes in copper production and increasing maize output beyond 3.7 million metric tonnes.
According to the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Principal Public Relations Officer, Everness Nankala, growth in agriculture will be supported by climate adaptation measures, which are expected to more than double irrigated output to 1.6 million tonnes.
Ms. Nankala said Zambia’s vision will be realized through enhanced production across key sectors of the economy.
Beyond crop production, the Government is expanding Zambia’s fisheries and livestock sectors to unlock new export potential.
Ms. Nankala stated that a key milestone is the target of generating US$1 billion in beef exports, positioning Zambia as a competitive player in regional and global livestock markets.
She said the Government will continue implementing an energy mix and policy reforms to address power deficits and support economic diversification.
“National energy security will be strengthened through increased electricity generation capacity, targeted to reach 2,600 megawatts by 2027, once the 29 projects currently under construction are completed,” she added.
Ms. Nankala further stated that the Government will continue with policy interventions aimed at reducing the cost of doing business and promoting local beneficiation through empowerment programmes.
She said these measures align with the 2026 national budget theme: “Consolidating Economic and Social Gains Towards a Prosperous, Resilient and Equitable Zambia.”
Ms. Nankala noted that while these projections are promising, the Ministry acknowledges potential challenges, notably climate change risks, electricity shortages, and Zambia’s continued reliance on mining.
“The Government remains determined to mitigate these risks through strategic reforms and sustained investment in diversified growth sectors,” Ms. Nankala stressed.
