Zambia reports gains in education, health, poverty reduction but cites key challenges

Zambia has recorded notable progress in expanding access to education, strengthening social protection systems, improving health services and implementing measures aimed at reducing poverty, vulnerability and inequality, government officials have said.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, Angela Kawandami, said the gains were contributing to improved human development outcomes and supporting the country’s Vision 2030 objectives.

She was speaking during a meeting to validate the First Quarter Progress Report for Human and Social Development Cluster II under the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP).

Kawandami reaffirmed government’s commitment to people-centred development but acknowledged ongoing challenges, including resource constraints, service delivery gaps and structural inequalities that require urgent attention.

“Sustainable economic progress can only be achieved through deliberate investment in people, particularly in health, education, resilience and their capacity to actively participate in national development,” she said.

She urged stakeholders to use the report as a tool for reflection, accountability and renewed commitment, noting that 2026 marks the final year of the 8NDP implementation period.

Kawandami also commended the Technical Working Group for preparing the report and encouraged active participation ahead of its submission to the Government Caucus and the National Development Coordinating Committee (NDCC) scheduled for 6 and 8 May 2026.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary, Dr. Kelvin Mambwe, called for coordinated and sustained multi-sectoral action, saying development efforts must remain aligned across sectors.

“There is the need for clear timelines, defined responsibilities and stronger collaboration. Development must remain focused on improving the welfare of every Zambian,” he said.

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