The recent report titled "Zambia Poverty and Equity Assessment: Turning Things Around After a Lost Decade" offers an in-depth analysis of poverty and equity in Zambia, suggesting pathways for potential policy interventions.
The document emphasizes the need for stronger and more inclusive economic growth to combat persistent poverty and inequality. It identifies mining as a key driver of economic expansion, crucial for reducing poverty and increasing fiscal revenue. Furthermore, it highlights the promising opportunities presented by the new energy transition minerals agenda for sustainable development.
For Zambia to achieve significant poverty reduction and forge a sustainable development path, the government is urged to bolster efforts supporting private-sector-led growth that can generate quality jobs on a large scale. A comprehensive strategy is necessary to bridge gaps in critical areas such as access to basic services, investment in connectivity, economic diversification, improved agricultural productivity, enhanced healthcare and education, and good governance promotion.
The report's findings indicate that current growth projections are inadequate for meaningful poverty reduction. Given the persistent challenge posed by climate shocks, it stresses the importance of solidifying macroeconomic stability and improving service delivery quality to enhance resilience. Addressing structural barriers to inclusive growth requires policy adjustments alongside more efficient public investment. Enhancing income-generating capacities among the poor involves focusing on asset accumulation, ensuring inclusive market access, facilitating returns on assets, and building shock resilience.