The Ministerial segment of the High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development has officially begun at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, bringing together ministers and senior government officials from around the world to strengthen efforts toward achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The forum serves as one of the most important international platforms for reviewing progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and identifying practical solutions to global development challenges. As countries continue working toward the 2030 deadline, the meeting provides an opportunity to assess achievements, address obstacles and encourage stronger international cooperation. Discussions during the forum are expected to focus on accelerating action in areas such as poverty reduction, climate resilience, quality education, clean water, economic growth and sustainable communities. Zambia is among the nations actively participating in the high-level discussions aimed at building a more inclusive and sustainable future.
The three-day ministerial segment commenced on 13 July and will run until 15 July 2026 under the theme, “Transformative, equitable, innovative and coordinated actions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals for a sustainable future for all.” The theme reflects the growing recognition that countries must adopt innovative approaches and strengthen partnerships if the world is to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals within the remaining years of the agenda. Delegates are expected to exchange experiences, share successful policy initiatives and explore ways to overcome common development challenges. The forum also emphasizes the importance of ensuring that development efforts benefit all members of society, particularly vulnerable and marginalized communities. By promoting inclusive development, the meeting seeks to ensure that no one is left behind.
The High-level Political Forum plays a central role in monitoring global progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals adopted by United Nations member states. Each year, governments present updates on national efforts while engaging in dialogue on strategies to improve implementation. The forum encourages accountability by allowing countries to review achievements, discuss lessons learned and identify areas requiring additional attention. It also promotes cooperation between governments, international organizations, civil society and development partners. Through these discussions, participating countries can strengthen policies that support sustainable economic growth, environmental protection and social development.
Zambia’s participation demonstrates the country’s continued commitment to advancing sustainable development through effective governance and international collaboration. The Zambian delegation includes Engineer Romas Kamanga, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation, who is representing one of the sectors critical to achieving several Sustainable Development Goals. Access to safe water and improved sanitation remains a key priority for sustainable development, public health and economic progress. Zambia’s presence at the forum provides an opportunity to share national experiences while learning from the successes and innovations of other countries. International cooperation remains essential in addressing complex development challenges that extend beyond national borders.
Also representing Zambia is Dr. Gabriel Pollen, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development. His participation highlights the importance of local governance in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals across communities. Local authorities play a significant role in delivering essential public services, promoting inclusive development and supporting economic opportunities at the grassroots level. Effective rural development policies contribute to reducing inequalities while improving access to infrastructure, education and healthcare. Zambia’s involvement in discussions surrounding local governance reinforces the country’s commitment to sustainable and balanced national development.
The delegation also includes Dr. Chola Milambo, Zambia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, together with other senior government officials. Their collective participation allows Zambia to contribute to international policy discussions while strengthening diplomatic engagement with global partners. The forum offers valuable opportunities for countries to exchange ideas on financing development, strengthening institutions and responding to emerging global challenges. These conversations are particularly important as nations work to accelerate progress toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals before the 2030 target. Active participation also helps strengthen partnerships that can support national development priorities.
One of the key objectives of this year’s forum is to promote coordinated action that addresses interconnected global issues such as climate change, food security, access to clean water and sustainable urban development. These challenges require governments to work across sectors while fostering innovation and collaboration with development partners. Participants are expected to examine practical strategies that improve resilience and create long-term development outcomes. Emphasis will also be placed on ensuring that economic growth is inclusive and environmentally sustainable. By encouraging integrated policy approaches, the forum seeks to help countries achieve lasting progress across multiple Sustainable Development Goals.
For Zambia, the discussions at the United Nations provide an opportunity to align national development priorities with global commitments while strengthening implementation strategies. Continued investment in water infrastructure, sanitation services, local government systems and rural development remains essential for improving livelihoods and supporting sustainable economic growth. The exchange of knowledge and best practices with other countries can help inform future policy decisions and strengthen ongoing development programmes. International partnerships also provide opportunities for technical support, financing and capacity building that contribute to national progress. These collaborative efforts are expected to play an important role in helping Zambia achieve its long-term development objectives.
As the Ministerial segment of the High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development continues in New York, global leaders remain focused on accelerating progress toward the 2030 Agenda. Zambia’s participation reflects its commitment to contributing to international efforts aimed at creating a more sustainable, equitable and inclusive future. With senior government officials actively engaging in discussions on water development, local governance and sustainable development, the country is reinforcing its role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. The forum serves as an important platform for strengthening cooperation, sharing solutions and promoting practical action that benefits communities around the world. Through continued collaboration and coordinated implementation, Zambia and its international partners aim to ensure that sustainable development delivers meaningful progress for current and future generations.