Localising SDGs to Improve Services for Zambians
The Government of the Republic of Zambia has reaffirmed its strong commitment to achieving and localising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a renewed focus on translating national priorities into tangible results at local level.
Speaking at the official opening of a training workshop on SDGs localisation, Voluntary Local Review (VLR) and Infrastructure Asset Management, Ministry of Finance and National Planning Permanent Secretary for Planning and Administration, Prudence Kaoma, said Zambia has fully integrated the SDGs into the country’s national planning framework through the Eighth National Development Plan.
Ms. Kaoma, who was represented by the Ministry’s Internal Audit Controller, Ms. Jamie Nkuwa, explained that the alignment ensures national development priorities are consistent with global aspirations under the SDGs, promoting inclusive growth, environmental sustainability, social equity and good governance.
She commended the convening of the workshop, noting that it would strengthen the capacity of both central and local government officials to translate national commitments into practical and measurable actions at sub-national level.
The Permanent Secretary emphasised the importance of integrating infrastructure asset management into SDGs localisation efforts, stating that sustainable development depends not only on constructing infrastructure but also on maintaining and managing it efficiently over time.
Ms. Kaoma further revealed that Zambia has successfully undertaken two Voluntary National Reviews, in 2020 and 2023, which provided valuable insights into progress made and gaps that still need to be addressed.
She urged local authorities to prioritise SDGs 6, 7, 9, 11 and 17 as they prepare for Voluntary Local Reviews in 2027.
Meanwhile, Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Nicholas Phiri, represented by Director of Physical Planning Mr. Parson Phiri, reaffirmed Government’s resolve to strengthen coordination between central government and local authorities.
He said a clear roadmap towards 2030, supported by strong leadership, strategic partnerships and disciplined implementation, would deliver measurable progress and lasting benefits for all Zambians.
At the same event, Lusaka Mayor Chilando Chitangala stressed that SDGs localisation must move beyond theory and become practical governance that turns ambition into concrete action.
Ms. Chitangala said Lusaka’s recent alignment of its Integrated Development Plan with the SDGs has already led to investments in early childhood education, expanded primary healthcare, improved water and sanitation systems, solid waste management reforms and climate resilience programmes.
She announced that 2025 marks the completion of Zambia’s first-ever Voluntary Local Review by Lusaka City, describing it as a milestone that goes beyond progress reporting.
The Mayor noted that the VLR process has triggered governance reforms, improved data systems, strengthened stakeholder engagement and enhanced coordination with central government, while also highlighting financing and infrastructure gaps that require urgent attention.
