Zambia Consumer Association (ZACA) has called on Government to urgently address economic challenges by creating sustainable jobs, particularly for young people.
The call comes amid escalating incidents of violence, mob justice, and widespread fear across the Copperbelt and North-Western provinces, which the Association described as symptoms of deeper socio-economic, institutional, and informational challenges requiring urgent and comprehensive intervention.
ZACA Executive Director, Juba Sakala, emphasized the need to invest in small and medium enterprises (SMEs), mining value chains, agriculture, and skills development programmes.
“Access to affordable finance and business support must be expanded to empower citizens and reduce economic exclusion,” Mr. Sakala said.
He also urged Government to strengthen social protection systems by scaling up programmes such as social cash transfers and food security initiatives to support vulnerable households and reduce desperation among communities.
Mr. Sakala further called for increased investment in education, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship training to help citizens understand legitimate pathways to success and reduce suspicion toward those who prosper.
He added that there is a need for Government to take a leading role in combating misinformation through intensified public sensitization.
“Working with traditional leaders, civil society, and the media, there must be deliberate efforts to educate citizens on the dangers of rumours, promote critical thinking, and dispel myths surrounding wealth, gassing, and ritual practices,” Mr. Sakala emphasized.
“Community policing must be strengthened to rebuild trust between citizens and law enforcement. Police must be visible, responsive, and proactive in engaging communities, providing timely information, and preventing escalation of tensions.”
Mr. Sakala added that Government must consider empowering local leadership structures—including Councils and traditional authorities—to act as early warning systems and mediators in times of community tension.
“This is not merely a law enforcement issue—it is a national development concern. The current situation reflects deeper socio-economic inequalities, lack of opportunities, and gaps in public awareness. If not addressed urgently, it risks further loss of innocent lives, erosion of social cohesion, and discouragement of investment,” he added.
He encouraged Government to take decisive, coordinated action to address the root causes, emphasizing the need for Zambia to move from fear and suspicion to trust and opportunity, from mob justice to rule of law, and from economic exclusion to inclusive growth.
“ZACA therefore calls on Government to move beyond reactive measures such as arrests and adopt a comprehensive, multi-sectoral response. Only through such a holistic approach can the country restore stability and protect its citizens,” Mr. Sakala said.
