UPND’S NEW MANIFESTO OFFERS A TRANSFORMATIVE VISION FOR ZAMBIA’S FUTURE
The unveiling of the UPND Alliance 2026–2031 Manifesto marks a defining moment in Zambia’s political and economic journey.
More than just a campaign document, the manifesto presents a comprehensive blueprint aimed at transforming every sector of the economy while improving the lives of ordinary citizens. 
If successfully implemented, the ambitious programme has the potential to cement President Hakainde Hichilema’s legacy as one of the most consequential leaders in Zambia’s history.
The manifesto arrives at a time when many Zambians are looking beyond economic recovery and seeking tangible improvements in their daily lives.
Having spent the past five years stabilising the economy, restructuring debt, restoring investor confidence, and implementing free education, the UPND is now presenting a second phase focused on growth, jobs, and prosperity.
At the centre of the plan is the promise to create two million jobs. This commitment alone has the potential to transform countless households across the country.
Youth unemployment has long been one of Zambia’s greatest challenges, and a large-scale expansion of opportunities in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism, and entrepreneurship could unlock the productive potential of an entire generation.
The proposed expansion of technical and vocational training will ensure that young people acquire practical skills needed in the modern economy.
By linking education to industry demands, the country will produce a workforce capable of driving industrialisation and innovation.
Agriculture, which remains the backbone of Zambia’s economy, stands to benefit immensely. Increased irrigation, mechanisation, and investment in agro-processing will help farmers move beyond subsistence production and become active participants in commercial agriculture.
The target of producing 10 million metric tonnes of maize and significantly increasing wheat and soya bean output could strengthen food security while lowering food prices for consumers.
For rural communities, improved agricultural productivity means higher incomes, better livelihoods, and greater economic resilience.
Expanded livestock programmes and ambitious export targets also have the potential to turn Zambia into a major regional supplier of agricultural products.
The mining sector is equally poised for transformation. Raising copper production to three million metric tonnes annually would generate billions of dollars in export earnings, create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, and provide the government with additional resources to invest in social services.
Importantly, the manifesto goes beyond simply extracting minerals. By prioritising local processing of critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and manganese, Zambia could move up the value chain and capture greater economic benefits from its natural resources.
This shift would stimulate manufacturing and industrial development while creating high-quality employment opportunities.
Reliable electricity is another critical pillar of the vision. Increasing generation capacity to over 10,000 megawatts would address one of the biggest constraints facing economic growth. Industries, businesses, farmers, and households all depend on stable power supplies.
Expanded energy production would support industrial expansion, attract investment, and improve quality of life across urban and rural communities.
Infrastructure development outlined in the manifesto could also unlock significant economic opportunities. Better roads, modern railways, efficient border facilities, and expanded digital connectivity would lower business costs and facilitate trade.
For ordinary citizens, improved infrastructure translates into easier access to markets, healthcare facilities, schools, and employment opportunities.
The commitment to strengthening free education and expanding university access demonstrates a recognition that human capital remains Zambia’s most valuable resource.
Meanwhile, continued recruitment of healthcare workers and investment in medical infrastructure promise better health outcomes for communities nationwide.
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of the manifesto is its integrated approach. Agriculture supports manufacturing. Energy powers industry. Infrastructure enables trade. Education develops skills. Healthcare improves productivity. Together, these interventions create a framework for sustained national development.
For many observers, the manifesto represents an attempt to move Zambia from economic recovery to economic transformation.
If the targets are achieved and the policies effectively implemented, millions of citizens could experience improved living standards, greater opportunities, and enhanced economic security.
Such an achievement would undoubtedly strengthen President Hakainde Hichilema’s standing among voters.
By presenting a clear roadmap that touches every sector and every province, the UPND is making a strong case that continuity of leadership offers the best chance of delivering the prosperity and development that Zambians aspire to achieve.
