Zambians should brace for 2016 economy challenges – Finance Minister

Finance Minister Alexander Chikwanda says Zambians should brace themselves to meet the challenges that may arise from externally –induced shocks, especially further falls in commodity prices and their knock-on effects on the economy and society at large.

Mr Chikwanda says the year 2016 will witness further challenges to efforts to raise the economy to yet higher heights so as to eradicate poverty.

He says he has a moral imperative to be candid and honest with the people of Zambia.

Mr Chikwanda states that in addition to elevated risks from climate change, the outlook for the world economy is not particularly cheerful.

He says to meet the challenging times ahead, he is confident that Zambians have the collective resolve, unity and character to assign primacy to the national interest over personal and selfish ambition.

Mr Chikwanda said this in his budget presentation to Parliament yesterday.

QFM