ECONOMISTS and the Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) have backed government’s decision to implement a 24-hour economy but have called for a permanent solution to loadshedding and improved security systems. On Tuesday, Cabinet approved a 24-hour economy for Zambia, allowing business houses, markets and bus stations to operate overnight. In an interview, Wednesday, Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ) National Secretary Dr Nicholus Mainza said the decision was long overdue, stating that it could boost productivity and lead to economic growth. Dr Mainza, however, warned that if left unregulated, the 24-hour economy could increase crime rates. “The pronouncement of Zambia as a 24/7 economy has been long overdue. As EAZ, we’ve been on the frontline advocating for the 24-hour economy simply...
