Maravi

Slow implementation of programmes delays poverty reduction - Hamukoma

Slow implementation of programmes delays poverty reduction - Hamukoma
By Joan Chirwa
Friday July 27, 2007 [04:00]

ZAMBIA Business Forum (ZBF) chairman Passmore Hamukoma has said the inertia on implementation of programmes negates acceleration of wealth creation. Hamukoma said the slow implementation of certain programmes could also delay poverty reduction and the increase in local and foreign investment.

“It is true we have made some progress in some areas but have had inertia in other areas. Is it the lack of understanding? Looking at those of us that have been given the task, the answer is a resounding no,” said Hamukoma during the just-ended 5th Zambia International Business Advisory Council (ZIBAC) conference in Livingstone.

“Then what went wrong? This inertia on implementation negates the acceleration of wealth creation, poverty reduction and the increase in local and foreign investment. The lack of implementation will ensure that successes in the reform programme elude us as a nation.”

Hamukoma said the private sector was committed to the task of enhancing economic development in the country.

“The Zambia Private Sector agrees that we should review outstanding issues and tackle them and pressing reforms should be tabled,” Hamukoma said. “The challenge for us is to remain resolute in our desire to see Zambia attain greater heights in economic development. We need to remain proud of achievements and find lasting solutions in those areas that we have not performed as expected.”

He further said the private sector fully endorses the realisation that Zambia needs a private sector driven economy.

“To achieve this, there is need for reforms both in policy and policy implementation,” Hamukoma said. “The PSD Reform Action Plan has had positive and reflective aspects to it which require careful thought if we are to see the programme through. This requires commitment to the cause, courage to challenge the underlying assumptions and the will to implement. In order to do this, there must be pragmatism and I repeat concerted will to achieve the deliverables.”

He said the private sector had in the last two years been in the realm of the PSD and spent its energies and resources in implementing projects under the working groups tirelessly.

Labels: PASSMORE HAMUKOMA, POVERTY, ZBF, ZIBAC

posted by MrK @ 4:56 PM