Economy to Face Severe Health Challenges, Warns Expert

Zambia’s economy is poised to confront significant health-related challenges, with the potential outbreak of cholera and other waterborne diseases looming large. 

According to economic expert Kelvin Chisanga, immediate policy and resource interventions are critical to mitigate these emerging threats.

Mr. Chisanga highlights that the current water situation is likely to cascade into severe health crises, which will further weaken the already fragile economy. The economic impact of cholera, in particular, is expected to be devastating, with far-reaching effects.

“Cholera will severely dent the already struggling economy,” Chisanga explains. “The economics of cholera have extensive and destructive repercussions.”

One significant concern is the cost of importing medicines, which will place substantial pressure on the local foreign exchange market. The unpreparedness and mishandling of potential outbreaks this year could exacerbate the economic downturn.

“Unpreparedness and mishandling of impending diseases such as cholera and other waterborne illnesses will devastate the economy further,” Chisanga warns. “Disease control measures will hit our treasury hard, making it extremely difficult to manage the budget deficit as planned for this fiscal year.”

In response, the Zambian government will need to allocate substantial resources towards disease mitigation and control measures, further straining the nation’s financial reserves.