The Minister of Finance and National Planning, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, MP, has announced a high-level World Bank Group delegation is visiting Zambia. The mission runs until November 4, 2025, and includes Ms. Anna Bjerde, World Bank Managing Director for Operations, Mr. Ndiame Diop, Vice President for Eastern and Southern Africa, and Mr. Nathan Belete, Country Director for Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Mr. Diop arrives on the evening of October 30, while Ms. Bjerde is expected tomorrow. The visit follows productive engagements at the 2025 IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., where Zambia reaffirmed its commitment to fiscal reforms, private sector-led growth, and stronger collaboration with development partners.
During the Washington meetings, Zambia and the World Bank agreed to deepen collaboration on job creation, youth empowerment, and private sector participation. The high-level visit highlights the World Bank Group’s continued confidence in Zambia’s economic reform trajectory. It also underscores support for the country’s development priorities under the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP). The delegation will focus on key sectors to strengthen Zambia’s economic foundation and promote sustainable growth.
Key areas of focus for the mission include economic diversification, energy access, and green growth initiatives. The delegation will also prioritize social protection and human capital investments, particularly in education and health. Climate-resilient infrastructure and digital transformation programs will be reviewed, along with ongoing and pipeline World Bank-financed projects in Zambia. These discussions aim to ensure that investments align with Zambia’s strategic goals and development priorities.
The World Bank delegation will engage not only with government officials but also with the private sector, civil society, and development partners. This inclusive approach seeks to foster partnerships that enhance job creation, poverty reduction, and economic resilience. The visit reaffirms the strong partnership between Zambia and the World Bank Group, which has supported policy-based operations, budget support, and sectoral investments in energy, agriculture, education, health, and social protection.
The Ministry of Finance and National Planning anticipates constructive deliberations that will strengthen World Bank cooperation with Zambia. By aligning international support with national priorities, Zambia aims to accelerate inclusive growth, expand employment opportunities, and improve overall welfare for its citizens. The visit is expected to lay the groundwork for continued collaboration and sustained economic progress.