Vice President Mutale Nalumango has expressed the Government’s optimism over the recent strengthening of the Kwacha, which has appreciated from nearly K29 to around K23 against the US Dollar.

She noted that the Kwacha’s improved performance bodes well for the national economy and positively affects the cost of living in Zambia.

Mrs. Nalumango said the current administration introduced sound policies aimed at bolstering the currency’s resilience. However, she acknowledged that external factors such as global conflicts have adversely affected key commodities like fuel.

Speaking during the Vice President’s question session in Parliament today, she also announced the continued implementation of social support programmes like Cash for Work.

She assured the public that the Government has taken note of appeals not to discontinue the initiative, which is designed to fight poverty and hunger.

“This is a listening Government, and we have observed how the programme is improving people’s livelihoods. We will continue running Cash for Work for as long as possible,” she said.

Mrs. Nalumango made the remarks in response to Lunte MP Mutotwe Kafwaya, who cited a UN report alleging human rights violations by the Government.