Zambia to Initiate IMF Discussions Post — Election. Lusaka, Zambia — Zambia is poised to begin negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a new economic program, with the deal expected to be finalized after the general elections scheduled for August, according to Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane. Zambia’s government is preparing to engage with the IMF on a fresh economic program, with the negotiations anticipated to commence promptly but will only conclude once the August elections have taken place.
This strategic timing reflects the IMF’s preference for dealing with a government that holds a full mandate.
The previous IMF program, valued at $1. 7 billion, expired in January after supporting Zambia through a debt restructuring process.
While rising copper revenues have offered some fiscal relief, spending pressures are on the rise as the nation approaches the polls.
Musokotwane confirmed that talks with the IMF will begin “almost immediately, “but emphasized that the finalization of the deal would be postponed until after the elections. This decision aligns with the IMF’s stance that it prefers to negotiate with a government that has the time and authority to implement the agreed-upon measures.
The delay is also seen as a measure to ensure political stability and facilitate consensus — building on reforms, thereby reducing policy disruption risks during leadership transitions. Further details regarding the specific terms of the new IMF deal are not yet available.
However, as Zambia prepares for the upcoming elections, the nation’s economic future remains a point of focus, with the IMF’s involvement playing a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory.
Source: Africa.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
