Zambia to Host 2025 Least Developing Countries Future Forum
Zambia has been selected to host the prestigious 2025 Least Developing Countries Future Forum, in a landmark decision by the United Nations Office of the High Representative for Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Countries, and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS).
This selection underscores Zambia’s steadfast dedication to innovation, digitalization, and technology-driven structural transformation, guided by the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema.
Mrs. Inutu Mupango Mwanza, First Secretary-Press & Tourism at the Zambia Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, released an official statement expressing Zambia’s enthusiasm for hosting the forum.
The LDC Forum serves as a crucial platform for researchers and policymakers to explore innovative strategies aimed at fostering development and structural transformation within the least developed nations.
Hon. Felix Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science, hailed the selection as a recognition of Zambia’s pioneering efforts in structural transformation. He highlighted Zambia’s innovative debt restructuring model, which has garnered attention and adoption by other African countries.
This model is projected to significantly reduce Zambia’s annual debt payments from $750 million to $75 million, freeing up resources for crucial development initiatives.
Furthermore, Minister Mutati emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing regulatory rigidities and administrative bottlenecks hindering economic growth. Through initiatives such as the Public Private Dialogue, Zambia aims to streamline regulations and foster an environment conducive to private sector-led development.
Among the key pillars of Zambia’s structural transformation agenda highlighted by Minister Mutati are internet connectivity, free education, and public-private partnerships. Notably, the government has prioritized the deployment of satellite technology to enhance internet accessibility, with 90% of the country now enjoying connectivity.
The Minister conveyed these developments during his transit from Finland through Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where he was warmly received by Zambia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Mrs. Rose Sakala.
Accompanied by his Permanent Secretary, Eng. Brilliant Habeenzu, Minister Mutati reiterated Zambia’s commitment to driving sustainable development and prosperity for its citizens and the wider African region.
