The Editor Zambia
The debate surrounding Zambia’s transition to a 24-hour business economy has taken a sharper political turn, with opposition political leaders Harry Kalaba and Makebi Zulu strongly condemning the initiative, arguing that the country is not yet ready for such an ambitious shift.
The policy, recently approved by Cabinet and announced by Information and Media Minister Cornelius Mweetwa, seeks to extend operating hours for businesses such as markets, shops, and bus stations to a full 24-hour cycle. 
The government and its supporters have described the move as progressive and necessary for boosting productivity, creating jobs, and unlocking economic potential.
The Zambia Association of Manufacturers has described the transition towards a 24-hour economy as a significant opportunity to enhance productivity and stimulate economic growth.
However, Citizens First leader Harry Kalaba has questioned the practicality of the policy, suggesting that it risks being more theoretical than achievable under Zambia’s current economic conditions.
Kalaba has argued that without stable energy supply, improved infrastructure, and increased consumer spending power, many businesses will struggle to sustain round the clock operations.
Kalaba’s criticism reflects a broader concern among sections of the opposition that the policy may place undue pressure on already strained enterprises.
Small and medium businesses, which form the backbone of Zambia’s economy, often operate on thin margins and may find it difficult to absorb the additional costs associated with night operations, including security, staffing and utilities.
Similarly, Patriotic Front (PF) presidential aspirant Makebi Zulu has dismissed the initiative as premature, arguing that the fundamentals required for a successful 24- hour economy are not yet in place.
Zulu contends that before extending business hours, the government must first focus on strengthening the economy, boosting citizens’ purchasing power, and ensuring that businesses are operating in a stable and supportive environment.
According to Zulu, a 24-hour economy is not merely about keeping shops open longer but about ensuring that there is sufficient demand to justify extended hours.
Without increased economic activity and disposable income among citizens, businesses may simply incur higher operating costs without corresponding revenue growth.
Despite these criticisms, proponents of the policy maintain that Zambia is taking a necessary step toward modernising its economy and aligning with global trends.
Across the world, several countries have successfully implemented elements of a 24-hour economy, demonstrating its potential to drive growth when supported by the right conditions.
In the United States of America, cities such as New York and Las Vegas operate largely on a 24- hour basis, with sectors like hospitality, entertainment, and transport running continuously.
This has contributed significantly to employment creation and economic dynamism, particularly in urban centres where demand remains high throughout the day and night.
The United Kingdom has also embraced aspects of a night-time economy, particularly in London, where extended business hours in retail, transport, and entertainment have generated billions in economic activity annually.
The development of structured night-time industries has not only created jobs but also enhanced the city’s global competitiveness.
In Asia, countries such as Japan and South Korea provide compelling examples of how extended working hours can support industrial growth and service delivery.
In cities like Tokyo and Seoul, convenience stores, transport systems, and restaurants operate around the clock, ensuring efficiency and accessibility for both workers and consumers.
Closer to Africa, South Africa has seen elements of a 24-hour economy thrive in major cities like Johannesburg, particularly in sectors such as retail, healthcare, and transport.
While not fully nationwide, these pockets of continuous economic activity highlight the potential benefits when infrastructure and demand align.
These examples underscore an important point in the ongoing debate. A 24-hour economy is not an overnight transformation but a gradual process that depends on strong supporting systems, including reliable electricity, security, transport, and a culture of productivity.
With these examples, one can readily dismiss critics like Kalaba and Zulu for exposing their ignorance on a matter that has stabilised economies elsewhere and earned countries the needed revenue.
The ignorance of the two gentlemen also exposes their incompetence to form government since these are issues any opposition leader should capitalise on to show citizens of offering alternative governments.
One doesn’t need a degree in economics to realise that the bold policy decisions taken by the UPND government will act as catalysts for change, forcing improvements in infrastructure, investment, and work culture.
Ultimately, the success or failure of Zambia’s 24-hour economy will depend not on political rhetoric but on execution.
