THE Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development has welcomed the recent Cabinet resolution to extend business and operating hours to a 24-hour cycle for business houses, markets, and bus stations saying it will foster job creation.
Permanent secretary Subeta Mutelo says the Ministry is currently engaging with key stakeholders, including local authorities, market associations, bus station management, and security agencies, to develop a robust framework for the smooth implementation of this policy.
“Our focus will be on ensuring the safety of traders and customers, providing adequate lighting and sanitation in markets, and facilitating access to affordable credit for small businesses to manage extended operations,” she said.
The ministry views policy as a tool that will significantly boost the economy and small businesses (MSMEs).
She said small retailers will make more money because they will be serving double clientele those working day and night thus making a sustainable income.
“The establishment of a 24-hour economy is not merely an administrative change; it is a catalyst for unlocking new avenues of economic growth, employment, and service delivery. For our MSMEs, this presents an unprecedented opportunity to maximize productivity and expand their market reach beyond the traditional 08:00hrs to 17:00hrs framework.”
Mutelo disclosed that 24-hour economy, is a 24-hour employment machine that will enhance Competitiveness by aligning a business environment with global trends.
She said the decision is making it easier for Zambian MSMEs to compete regionally and internationally, for it allows for greater efficiency in supply chains, logistics, and just-in-time delivery, which are essential for business growth.
Mutelo added that maximising the use of markets, bus stations, and industrial yards over a 24-hour period ensures that public and private investments in infrastructure yield higher returns and serve the people more efficiently.
“The Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development is fully committed to ensuring that this vision is realised in a manner that is safe, secure, and supportive of our entrepreneurs.”
Mutelo further called upon all small business owners to embrace this opportunity and prepare to scale up their operations.
The Ministry stands ready to provide the necessary support and guidance to ensure that MSMEs are the primary beneficiaries of this transformative economic agenda.
By Haggai Hamunyemba
Kalemba March 25, 2026
