Zambia’s finance ministry has announced plans to work with the International Monetary Fund on a new financing programme, following the completion of its current loan arrangement, which is set to expire at the end of January. The decision marks a strategic shift in the country’s engagement with the IMF as it seeks to consolidate recent economic reforms and secure longer term financial stability.
In a statement released on Thursday, the ministry said the government had decided not to pursue a previously anticipated one year extension of the existing Extended Credit Facility programme. Instead, authorities now intend to replace it with a new full scale programme that will run its complete course, allowing for a more comprehensive and sustained reform agenda.
According to the finance ministry, the move reflects Zambia’s desire to build on the progress achieved under the current IMF supported programme, which focused on restoring macroeconomic stability, strengthening public finances, and addressing long standing debt challenges. Officials believe that a fresh programme with a longer horizon will provide greater policy certainty, support investor confidence, and create a stronger foundation for economic growth.
Zambia entered the existing IMF programme following years of fiscal strain and mounting debt, which culminated in a default in 2020. Since then, the government has undertaken a series of reforms, including efforts to improve revenue collection, rationalise public spending, and restructure its external debt with creditors. These measures have been seen as critical steps toward stabilising the economy and restoring credibility with international partners.
The finance ministry said discussions with the IMF would focus on designing a programme that aligns with Zambia’s national development priorities, while continuing to promote fiscal discipline, transparency, and inclusive growth. The government also stressed that any new arrangement would aim to protect social spending and support vulnerable populations, particularly as the country navigates global economic uncertainties.
Analysts note that opting for a full programme rather than a short extension signals confidence in Zambia’s reform trajectory and a willingness to commit to deeper structural changes. A new IMF programme could also unlock additional financing from other development partners, easing pressure on public finances and supporting key sectors of the economy.
As negotiations begin, attention will be on the scope and conditions of the proposed programme, as well as its potential impact on growth, inflation, and employment. For Zambia, the move represents another critical step in its ongoing effort to stabilise the economy, rebuild trust with international institutions, and chart a more sustainable economic path forward.
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