Zambia is a country blessed with immense natural wealth, yet our people continue to face poverty, unemployment, and rising inequality. This is not because we lack resources, but because we have lacked fair, transparent, and visionary management of those resources. My economic vision is centered on one guiding principle: Zambians must be the primary beneficiaries of their nation’s wealth.
1. BUILDING AN ECONOMY THAT WORKS FOR EVERYONE
For far too long, our economy has worked for the privileged few. I believe in building an economy that rewards hard work and innovation, not political connection. This means reforming public systems to ensure that every kwacha spent by government translates into opportunities for ordinary Zambians — through better schools, better healthcare, and jobs that restore dignity.
2. ZAMBIANS FIRST IN RESOURCE OWNERSHIP
Our minerals, our land, and our industries should serve the people of Zambia first. I will promote local ownership and participation in key sectors so that citizens benefit directly from our copper, energy, and agricultural potential. Foreign investment is welcome, but it must create real value for our people — jobs, skills transfer, and reinvestment in communities. No deal should enrich outsiders while leaving Zambians in poverty.
3. SUPPORTING FARMERS AND THE RURAL ECONOMY
Agriculture is the backbone of our nation, and it must be treated as such. I will ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their produce, access to inputs on time, and support to expand production. Rural development must not be left behind; better infrastructure, access to markets, and modern farming tools will lift thousands out of poverty and strengthen food security.
4. EMPOWERING SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMEs)
Small businesses are the engine of job creation. My government will create a fair financial environment for SMEs by improving access to credit, reducing bureaucratic barriers, and prioritizing local suppliers in public procurement. Entrepreneurship should not be a privilege — it should be a path open to every Zambian with the courage to create and innovate.
5. JOB CREATION AND INDUSTRIAL TRANSFORMATION
We cannot keep exporting raw materials and importing finished goods. Zambia must industrialize. I will champion value addition across sectors — from mining to agriculture — so that we create sustainable jobs for our youth and increase our national income. Every Zambian should have the chance to work in a productive, secure, and fairly paid job.
6. CLIMATE-RESPONSIBLE AND SUSTAINABLE GROWTH
Our economic growth must not come at the cost of our environment. I believe in a green economy that protects our forests, water, and land while promoting renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, and responsible mining. A sustainable economy is one that serves both current and future generations.
Zambia’s economic recovery begins with trust, transparency, and the courage to put citizens first. My goal is not just growth on paper, but growth that can be felt in every home — from the farmer in Chipata to the miner in Kitwe, from the market trader in Lusaka to the young graduate starting out in Solwezi.
Together, we can build a fair, strong, and inclusive economy that truly works for Zambians.
Andyford Mayele Banda
Presidential Candidate, People’s Alliance for Change (PAC)
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