Macroeconomic Stability

In conclusion, Zambia's journey toward economic recovery, guided in part by its IMF-supported programme, has been marked by both notable achievements and persistent challenges. The "broadly satisfactory" performance and positive forecasts from institutions like Moody's underscore the country's commitment to fiscal and structural reforms, with important milestones already achieved in debt restructuring and economic stabilization. However, the path forward requires unwavering dedication, particularly in addressing persistent issues such as overdue tax revenues and delayed structural reforms. By maintaining fiscal discipline, especially in the lead-up to the 2026 elections, and continuing to implement the ambitious reforms outlined by the IMF, Zambia can strengthen its economic resilience and transform its cautious optimism into tangible, long-term prosperity. The successful finalization of all debt-restructuring agreements in a transparent manner will be the final and critical step in cementing a stable foundation for sustained inclusive growth.

Electricity market structures come in different shapes and forms. Many have given rise to new players, particularly in power generation. Private participation brings advantages but also challenges to a sector that cannot be looked upon in isolation from the broader macroeconomic perspective. What are those advantages and challenges? How do they play out in Sub-Saharan Africa? Contingent liabilities have become a buzz word around infrastructure project development, but what exactly are they and how concerned should governments be? And most importantly, what can be done to tackle them?

In the tax world, this is significant because businesses react to tax policy. Tax policy, in turn, stimulates the interest of both local and international investors who are the key drivers of economic growth. Therefore, the challenges of the economic downturn will be more glaring and significant for African countries, who have a greater reliance on tax revenue from large taxpayers than more advanced economies.

Based the observation from Ghana and Kenya, there is the need to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of investment tax incentives to ensure transparency, accountability, reduce associated costs, and check abuse.