Lungu applauds Zambia’s development milestones

ZAMBIA has made strides in improving the social economic wellbeing of its citizens, President Edgar Lungu has said.

President Lungu said between 1995 to 2015, life expectancy had improved by 43 percent.

He said that the average years of schooling had also increased by 44 percent and household income by 86 percent.

The President said this in a speech read for him by Acting Minister of Transport and Communications Lawrence Sichalwe at the official opening of the 10th Information and Communication Technology (ICT4D) Conference which Zambia is hosting this year.

“These figures are a living testimony of not just the great potential Zambia holds for its people but projects the country exemplary position and commit- ment in achieving sustainable development,” President Lungu said.

He said some of the indicators for improved social economic development was the prioritisation of the Information Communications and Technology which was in the 7th National Development Plan.

He explained that ICT had transformed heath care systems for the benefit of thousands of citizens.

President Lungu also stated that ICT was promoting financial inclusion through payment platforms.

“Not only has ICT transformed our healthcare system, but it is promoting financial inclusion at the local, regional and global level as well.

“The payments platforms such as Zangena and Zoona are examples of successful ICT programmmes founded on Zambian entrepreneurial spirit that cater for those without bank accounts,” he said. And Barclays Bank managing director Mizinga Melu said the bank had invested over K25 million in financial technology aimed at improving inclusiveness in the business sector.