CHUNGU CALLS FOR YOUTH-DRIVEN ECONOMIC REVOLUTION AND FAIRER INVESTMENT DEALS
Former Zambia Intelligence Chief and 2026 presidential aspirant Xavier Chungu has called for a new economic revolution centered on value addition, youth empowerment and equitable management of the country’s natural resources.
Speaking during a live interview on Capital FM 99.7 with Esther and Farai, Mr. Chungu said his experience in intelligence had given him a deep understanding of the needs and aspirations of ordinary citizens.
He explained that effective leadership begins with listening to the people and responding to their concerns.
Mr. Chungu said Zambia’s economic transformation would depend on creating industries around farming blocks to process agricultural products locally rather than exporting raw materials.
He argued that such an approach would create thousands of jobs and provide young people with opportunities beyond government employment.
He proposed that government establish value-addition facilities and provide capital to youth-led enterprises, allowing young entrepreneurs to manage businesses, process agricultural produce and gradually repay state investments.
According to Mr. Chungu, the profits generated would help youths expand their operations and become successful business owners.
“My experience as an intelligence officer has taught me one important lesson; leadership begins with listening to the people,” Mr. Chungu said.
He also emphasized the need to reform agricultural marketing systems, noting that many farmers continue to suffer losses because of poor collection mechanisms and delayed payments.
He said government should ensure that produce is collected efficiently and that farmers receive timely payments for their harvests.
On foreign investment, Mr. Chungu said Zambia must review its engagement with investors to ensure mutual benefits.
While acknowledging the importance of investment in driving economic growth, he maintained that citizens should receive a fair share of the wealth generated from the country’s natural resources.
“What we need is to renegotiate how we interact with investors so that everyone benefits,” he said.
Mr. Chungu further highlighted Zambia’s vast copper resources as a major opportunity for economic growth, arguing that citizens should participate more actively in the mining value chain.
He called for transparent and equitable agreements that maximize returns for the country while maintaining attractive conditions for investors.
He said Zambia’s natural wealth should be managed in a manner that benefits both present and future generations, with young people playing a central role in national development and economic progress.