LESSONS FROM LOAD-SHEDDING

IAM not an economist but as a layman, it is clear that the power loss through load-shedding is going to create serious economic havoc. It is easy to guess that our economic outlook is already precarious and we cannot avoid floundering into economic stagnation. No doubt Zambia will face many unpleasant situations whose outcomes will be hard to quantify.

Unfortunately, this is not a man-made development which calls for calmness and quick response. We should by all means avoid losing sight of the fact that innovation is a force for good.

This is also not time to start looking in the crystal ball or consulting crestrellas prophecies for solutions but to seek careful planning to ensure our economy does not completely die. The effects of El Nino are already known and it is left for concerned players to come up with counter policies to avoid a double dip in our economy.

It is also obvious to me that very few businesses, especially SMEs will respond with greater alacrity to the power challenge. I think Government should put in all it can to prevent this disaster to recur. May be government should seriously look into the issue of developing solar energy as the alternative.

This may call for the establishment of giant solar plants throughout the country for sustainable power supply to the industry. I am sure the nation has noted the danger of relying on one substance, the disruptive water. The truth of the matter is that slow economic growth may result in sluggish employment situations. This is because businesses will be strapped for cash and experience meagre profit gains while reining in high labour costs.

Crying or complaining alone will not help but concerted effort from both government and industry will help minimise the impact of the current drought situation.