“Zambia Can Afford Fuel and Electricity Subsidies,” Says Mwanza
Antonio Mourinho Mwanza, President of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), has sparked a national debate after boldly declaring that Zambia can afford to subsidize fuel and electricity. Mwanza insists that Zambia’s natural wealth and untapped resources provide enough revenue to ease the financial burden on citizens, provided there is prudent management of the economy.
“Zambia is not a poor country. We are rich in natural resources, from gold and copper to arable land and water. Our problem is not a lack of money; it’s a lack of visionary leadership,” Mwanza stated during a press briefing in Lusaka. “With proper resource management and an aggressive crackdown on corruption, we can subsidize fuel and electricity to reduce the cost of living for our people.”
Mwanza criticized the high energy costs, which he says have crippled the economy, increased inflation, and worsened poverty levels. He cited data showing that the cost of living in Lusaka has surpassed K10,575.93 for a family of five. “When energy prices go up, everything becomes expensive—transport, food, and even small businesses like barbershops and welding shops are forced to close. This is unacceptable,” he said.
Addressing critics who claim Zambia lacks the funds for subsidies, Mwanza pointed to staggering losses in illicit financial flows. “In the last nine months alone, Zambia lost $3 billion to corruption, tax evasion, and tax avoidance,” Mwanza revealed. “Imagine how far that money could go in easing the burden of high fuel and electricity prices on ordinary citizens.”
The DPP leader also outlined his party’s plan to generate revenue for subsidies. “We will ensure that every mining company pays its fair share of taxes. Only six out of over 6,000 licensed mining entities are paying taxes—that’s daylight robbery,” Mwanza declared. “We will also close loopholes in the forestry and tourism sectors and invest heavily in manufacturing and agriculture to create jobs and boost revenue.”
Mwanza dismissed claims that subsidies are unsustainable, pointing to countries like South Africa, Egypt, and the United States, which use subsidies as tools to stabilize their economies. “If these countries can subsidize critical sectors, why can’t we? The truth is, we’ve been mismanaging our resources for too long, and the DPP is ready to change that,” he said.
With Zambia’s economy struggling under high inflation and a depreciating Kwacha, Mwanza’s promises of cheaper fuel and electricity have resonated with many Zambians. However, critics argue that his proposals lack detailed implementation strategies. As the 2026 elections draw nearer, Mwanza’s bold rhetoric is setting the stage for a heated political contest over the future of Zambia’s economy.
Kumwesu Jan 9, 2025
“Zambia Can Afford Fuel and Electricity Subsidies,” Says Mwanza
