AS Zambia approaches its 60th anniversary of independence, the United States has signed a landmark $491 million deal with the Zambian government, aimed at fostering sustainable economic growth and reducing poverty. This agreement is part of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact, with a $458 million debt-free grant from the US and a $33 million investment from Zambia. The funding will be used to enhance infrastructure, giving Zambian farmers and rural communities better access to both regional and global markets.
The compact also focuses on driving policy reforms to unlock the agricultural sector’s potential, further integrating with existing US initiatives such as the Lobito Corridor project. By strengthening agricultural systems, the US and Zambia hope to catalyse inclusive economic growth, lifting rural communities and fostering long-term development.
The partnership builds on 60 years of diplomatic relations, with the US government reaffirming its commitment to supporting Zambia’s efforts in reducing poverty and promoting democracy and regional stability. Both nations anticipate this compact will have life-changing impacts for Zambian citizens, particularly in agriculture, a key driver of the economy.
US officials emphasised the importance of this partnership as a model for future investments in Zambia and other developing nations, highlighting the transformative potential of infrastructure improvements and agricultural policy reform.
