PRIVATE SECTOR SHOWS RESILIENCE IN EARLY 2026 – ECONOMIST
Economist Kelvin Chisanga observes that Zambia’s private sector is showing notable resilience in the opening months of 2026, supported by stabilising macroeconomic conditions and renewed investor confidence.
Chisanga notes that business activity indicators staying above the 50-point threshold reflect steady expansion in output and new orders across mining, agriculture, manufacturing, wholesale trade, and construction.
He emphasised that mining continues to serve as the anchor of private sector performance, with investment pledges surpassing US$3 billion.
The Economist highlighted that agriculture and manufacturing are simultaneously driving diversification, while Multi-Facility Economic Zones (MFEZs) are expanding the country’s industrial base.
Chisanga pointed out that early estimates suggest between 12,000 and 18,000 new formal jobs were created in January and February, particularly in mining support services, agro-processing, construction, manufacturing, and retail trade.
He remarked that fiscal contributions have strengthened, with corporate income tax, mineral royalties, VAT, and PAYE collections rising by 8–12% year-on-year.
The Economist underlined that this trend demonstrates the sector’s growing role in domestic revenue mobilisation and public finance support.
Chisanga explained that community-level impacts include higher household incomes, expanded supplier contracts, greater disposable earnings, and stronger rural market linkages, all underscoring the inclusive nature of growth.
He observed that sustaining this momentum will rely on consistent energy supply, affordable credit access, and stable macroeconomic policy.
The Economist stressed that Zambia’s private sector, backed by strategic investments and diversification, is signalling a promising start to 2026 with wide-ranging implications for employment, fiscal health, and socio-economic development.
Chisanga reflected that the overall trajectory points towards a more resilient and diversified economy, capable of supporting long-term national progress.
He affirmed that early 2026 has already set a constructive tone for Zambia’s private sector outlook.
