Civic Forum on Housing and Habitat Zambia (CFHHZ) was part of the delegates that participated in the Summit of the Future stakeholders engagement that analysed the country’s priorities towards attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Summit of the future to be held on 22nd and 23rd September 2024 in New York seeks to address Development Challenges and identity solutions that are Sustainable for future generations. Under this pact of the future, five critical areas will be covered. These are; Transforming Global Governance, Peace and Security, Sustainable Development and Financing, Science,Technology and innovation and digital cooperation, Youth and future generations.
Looking at the scope of the summit, and considering Zambia’s high poverty levels, a huge child bulge, rising inequalities and poor housing, CFHHZ urged the Zambian Government and United Nations to support creation of economic assets, establish strong monitoring mechanisms to ensure equitable distribution of wealth, youth empowerment and deliberate action towards supporting the Zambian industry especially the youth and women. Zambia has over the years been highly dependent on copper and yet it has vast natural resources that can be tapped into. The child bulge demands increased health care, education, housing and support infrastructure. It is time to reshape our economy and produce our own products. Investors should work with local communities and local companies. It is doable once we invest in research and technology, restructure our education system and support the youth to become innovative and drive the country’s economy.