Economist Kelvin Chisanga says maintaining fiscal discipline, accelerating diversification beyond copper and strengthening productivity will be critical to sustaining Zambia’s positive momentum within Africa’s competitive economic landscape.
Chisanga noted that Zambia is transitioning from a stabilisation platform towards sustainable expansion.
He explained that Zambia’s economic trajectory in 2026 reflects a steady recovery within Africa’s broader reform cycle.
The economist pointed out that current projections place Zambia’s growth between 5% and 6%, positioning the country above the Sub-Saharan African average of approximately 4%.
Chisanga observed that Zambia’s economic expansion is largely driven by improved mining output, recovery in agriculture following climate shocks, and strengthening activity in services and energy.
He stressed that inflation has moderated significantly from previous double-digit levels to single digits, reflecting improved exchange rate stability and disciplined monetary policy.
Chisanga remarked that compared to several African economies still battling persistent food and currency pressures, Zambia’s price stability trend signals strengthening macroeconomic management levels.
He explained that on fiscal matters, Zambia continues implementing debt restructuring reforms following the 2020 sovereign default risk.
Chisanga underlined that while public debt remains elevated, structured engagement with creditors and reform alignment have enhanced investor confidence relative to peers facing unresolved fiscal distress.
