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Zambia Prioritizes Integrated Planning for Local Prosperity: National Conference Sets Ambitious Development Goals

Livingstone, Zambia - In a significant address at the 9th National Planning Conference, Provincial Minister of Southern Province, Credo Nanjuwa, underscored the critical role of integrated planning in fostering local prosperity. 

The event, hosted at the Radisson Blu Hotel on May 29, 2024, gathered prominent figures including Permanent Secretaries, the Mayor of Livingstone Ms. Constance Muleabai, and Zambia Institute of Planners President Mr. Busiku Sulwe.


Minister Nanjuwa emphasized the government's commitment to a unified policy approach to socio-economic development, highlighting the importance of collective and integrative planning. 

"The drought has compelled President Hakainde Hichilema to declare a national disaster," 

Mr Nanjuwa noted, outlining the government's measures to prevent hunger and promote investment in alternative clean energy sources like solar, wind, and gas.

Addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 on sustainable cities and communities, Mr Nanjuwa stressed the need for modern, resilient urban planning to accommodate Zambia's growing population. 

He cited the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP) as the framework guiding Zambia towards achieving these goals by 2030, focusing on economic transformation, social development, environmental sustainability, and good governance.

The minister announced that approximately 80 Integrated Development Plans (IDPs) have been approved, with more set for launch in June. This progress aligns with the government's target to have IDPs in all 116 districts by the year's end.

He also highlighted the successful restructuring of Zambia's debt, which promises to improve service delivery amidst ongoing drought challenges affecting millions.

Mr Nanjuwa revealed the government's steps to unblock unplanned settlements, aiming to make them livable, safe, and healthy. This initiative includes a pilot project in Lusaka to manage flooding and prevent waterborne diseases.

The conference stressed the importance of harmonizing planning frameworks, with ongoing reviews of the National Planning and Budgeting Act of 2020 and the Urban and Regional Planning Act of 2015.

 Minister Nanjuwa urged all stakeholders, including professional bodies, traditional leaders, and communities, to actively participate in the development process to ensure well-coordinated, inclusive growth.

and Mr. Busiku Sulwe, President of the Zambia Institute of Planners, echoed these sentiments, calling for practical solutions and recommendations to enhance service delivery and national development.

 He lauded the government's support and the role of planners in advising on critical issues, including the integration of IDPs with national plans and the promotion of orderly development.

The conference concluded with a strong call to action for planners and allied professionals to support the government's efforts in creating sustainable, prosperous communities. By embracing integrated planning and collaboration, Zambia aims to overcome current challenges and pave the way for a brighter, more resilient future.

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