The Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) has raised concerns over Zambia’s persistent energy challenges, warning that continued load shedding is undermining household welfare and disrupting business activities.
JCTR Social and Economic Development Programme Officer, Lombe Kasanda, says that while long-term investments in the energy sector are necessary, government must also implement immediate measures to ease the daily hardships caused by unreliable electricity supply.
JCTR has noted President Hakainde Hichilema’s emphasis on the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) as a tool for decentralization. However, Mr. Kasanda cautions that linking CDF oversight to the pending Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 7 risks politicizing the process and potentially weakening the separation of powers.
The organization has further warned that progress in the fight against corruption including improved perception indices should not overshadow ongoing challenges. Rising incidents of bribery in key public services, as reflected in the Zambia Bribe Payers’ Index, highlight the need for deeper systemic reforms rather than mere celebratory narratives.
JCTR has also emphasized that government statistics alone do not translate into improved living standards. Many households continue to struggle with access to food, education, and essential medicines underscoring the gap between policy achievements and citizens’ daily realities.
By Rachel Mumba.
