Newly appointed Minister of Finance Situmbeko Musokotwane says the government is projecting to increase the copper output to 3m metric tonnes annually as it sets the economic tone on the revival path.
Speaking during a press conference after being sworn in, the new Minister of Finance said no more unnecessary foreign trips by senior government officials will be entertained.
Below are the highlights from his speech:
-Government will embark on an aggressive reform programmes.
-Government aims to record a production of 3 million metric tonnes of copper per year, a move that will provide economic activities, more forex and employment.
-Under the UPND government, money will be utilised carefully.
-The Budget is under stress and currently a huge chunk is going to emoluments and servicing debt.
-Government aims at revamping producing in Muilti-facility Economic Zones (MFEZs).
-The Country is under economic stress.
-Government is optimistic that it will conclude negotiations for an IMF package by September and October.
-A recommendation will be made to the President on whether government will continue to engage a French firm Lazard Freres, debt advisors that were engaged by the PF government once it’s value is established.
-Among the new government reform programmes is to improve revenue collection by the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA).
-Government will ride on the heightened investor trust and confidence that has is being shown.
-Government’s focus was to ensure that everyone enjoyed their citizenship as Zambians.
-Ministry of finance officers will not be protected if found wanting on corruption matters.
-There shall be no useless seminars and trips for government workers.
-The role of the appointment of Bank of Zambia governor is the role of the President.