The government says it will roll out the first phase of the 24-hour economy by lifting the night travel ban on commercial trucks and buses effective 1st April 2026.
Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry Chipoka Mulenga says the move is aimed at enhancing the movement of goods and services and stimulating economic activity around the clock.
Mr. Mulenga says the Kazungula One-Stop Border Post will also begin operating on a 24-hour basis to support small and medium enterprises, allowing them to order goods at night and sell during the day.
Speaking when he featured on Diamond TV’s COSTA programme, Mr. Mulenga has explained that the operationalisation of the 24-hour economy will be demand-driven, with the retail and service sectors identified as priority areas in the initial phase.
He has since urged Zambians to embrace the initiative, stating that it has the potential to generate more income, create jobs, and contribute to overall economic growth.
Meanwhile, Mr. Mulenga has cautioned that the ongoing Middle East conflict is likely to negatively impact Zambia’s economy through rising fuel prices and pressure on the kwacha.
He says the conflict has disrupted global logistics and supply chains, affecting the movement of goods to key markets in Asia and the United Arab Emirates.
By Rachel Mumba
