Earlier this week the European Union announced that it has resumed budgetary support to Zambia, marking the first disbursement in a decade. 
 
An initial tranche of €20 million has been released, as part of a broader €60 million package to be allocated to Zambia’s National Treasury between 2024 and 2026. 
 
At a joint press conference with Zambia’s Minister of Finance and National Planning, Situmbeko Musokotwane, EU Ambassador to Zambia, Karolina Stasiak, expressed optimism regarding Zambia's renewed commitment to governance reforms following the new administration's appointment after the 2021 general elections.
 
“The past few years have been particularly challenging for Zambia, with a series of crisis, including the Covid-19 pandemic, a debt default, a cholera epidemic, and a drought which has led to a severe economic crisis. The government has not been spared and in spite of these considerable challenges, it has remained steadfast in its efforts to strengthen governance, restore macroeconomic stability, and promote higher, more resilient, and inclusive growth,” she said.
 
Stasiak further highlighted that the EU's support is intended to offer financial relief and help ease the economic burden on Zambia's vulnerable populations, according to Xinhua news agency.
 
“In this time of tight fiscal constraints, it is important to clarify that EU Budget Support is not a loan. It is a non-reimbursable financial support – a grant provided as part of development cooperation assistance. The European Union grants Budget Support only to countries that have made tangible progress in implementing the Government's reform policies. These funds will help the Government mitigate the impact of the crisis on the most vulnerable Zambians,” she went on to add. 
 
In addition, Musokotwane reaffirmed Zambia's dedication to building a stronger and more prosperous future, focusing on enhanced access to education, healthcare, and effective public financial management. 
 
“Today’s signing ceremony is not just a symbolic act; it is a concrete manifestation of our commitment to building a stronger, more prosperous Zambia. We are confident that through our renewed partnership, we can create a future where every Zambian has access to quality education, affordable healthcare, and the benefits of a sound public financial management system”, he said.