PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has challenged Zambians to think business and embrace exports, saying the country cannot prosper if it limits trade opportunities.
“Zambians are a bit strange, you produce more than you need, but you don’t want us to export the excess. So what do we do with it? It’s business,” President Hichilema said.
Speaking at the 2025 Zambia Man of the Year Award, President Hichilema said Zambia’s economic growth depends on producing more and trading more, a model designed to create jobs, stabilise the Kwacha and improve living standards.
“This year, we’re targeting one million tonnes of copper worth around $11 billion. When we double that, it means $22 billion, and at three million tonnes, over $30 billion in copper earnings,” he said.
The President said government’s focus is to grow the economy and use the proceeds to fund education, support entrepreneurs and strengthen social protection.
“This is what we, your servants, are doing to grow the economy, create jobs, and ensure Zambians live better,” he said.
On agriculture, President Hichilema reaffirmed the country’s 10 million tonnes of maize target, saying it will guarantee food security and price stability while creating room for exports.
“When we produce more, mealie meal prices will drop, and the surplus can be exported to earn foreign exchange,” he said.
He emphasisesd that Zambia’s progress depends on productivity, innovation and trade.
By Sharon Zulu
Kalemba November 8, 2025
