President HICHILEMA meets IMF team

By Masauso Mkwayaya

President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA has urged the International Monetary Fund -IMF- team reviewing the Extended Credit Facility to consider innovative strategies to address the impact of the drought, which has disrupted Zambia’s economic growth projections.

President HICHILEMA says the drought has affected many programmes, leading to a revision of growth forecasts.

Speaking during a meeting with an IMF delegation at State House in Lusaka today, President HICHILEMA said several key factors necessary for economic growth have been impacted.

He said the drought has exacerbated food and energy insecurity across the country.

The President called on the IMF to collaborate with the Government to ensure a strong start to the coming year, particularly with favourable rain forecasts.

And IMF Chief of Mission VERA MARTIN acknowledged the effects of the drought on Zambia’s economic outlook which has created a difficult environment.

Ms. MARTIN said she is grateful for the candid discussions held with the Zambian team.

The IMF delegation is in the country for the fourth review of the Extended Credit Facility.