Zambia has reaffirmed its dedication to advancing social justice, equity, and inclusive development during the United Nations Second World Summit for Social Development (WSSD2) held in Doha, Qatar. The country’s position was delivered by Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, S.C., M.P., Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, representing President Hakainde Hichilema at the high-level meeting.
In his address, Hon. Haimbe emphasized the need for collective action to tackle interconnected global challenges, including economic uncertainty, climate change, debt distress, inequality, unemployment, and conflict. He highlighted that these issues continue to threaten human development gains worldwide. The Minister expressed Zambia’s full support for the Doha Political Declaration, which renews the spirit of Copenhagen and reinforces the three fundamental pillars of social development: poverty eradication, full and productive employment, and social inclusion.
Hon. Haimbe also highlighted Zambia’s national progress in addressing youth unemployment, rural poverty, gender inequality, and climate vulnerability. He noted that the country’s policies are guided by the Eighth National Development Plan, aligned with Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Minister reported that the Social Cash Transfer Programme now reaches approximately 60 percent of the poorest households, providing vital income support to vulnerable populations. He further highlighted government initiatives, including free primary and secondary education, expansion of the National Health Insurance Scheme, and strengthened child protection systems, safeguarding the well-being of children who constitute nearly half of Zambia’s population.
The Minister reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to continental frameworks under the African Union (AU), including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), and the AU Climate Change and Resilient Development Strategy. He emphasized that these initiatives demonstrate Africa’s determination to define its own development path while contributing meaningfully to global governance.
Hon. Haimbe concluded by affirming that Zambia continues to align national financing with social priorities to ensure that economic growth translates into poverty reduction and decent work for all citizens. The country’s approach underscores its commitment to sustainable and inclusive development while actively supporting continental and global initiatives aimed at improving social outcomes worldwide.