Zambia Faces Rising Unemployment Amid Growing Labor Force Pressure

Lusaka, December 15, 2025

Zambia is confronting mounting employment challenges as the national unemployment rate increased to 12.9% in 2024, up from 12% in 2023, according to the Central Statistical Office of Zambia. This upward trend highlights the persistent struggle to generate sufficient jobs for a growing labor force of 19.7 million people.

Youth unemployment and underemployment remain particularly acute, reflecting structural issues in the economy that limit opportunities for young people entering the job market. Historical data shows that unemployment in Zambia has averaged 12.9% since 1986, peaking at 19.7% in 1993 and reaching a record low of 7.4% in 2014, demonstrating persistent cyclical challenges despite periods of economic growth.

The rising unemployment rate coincides with a shift in the labor market, where formal employment opportunities are limited and many workers rely on informal or low-productivity jobs. Analysts note that sectors such as mining, agriculture, and public services continue to absorb only a fraction of the labor force, leaving the majority dependent on small-scale trade and informal economic activities.

Experts argue that addressing unemployment requires a multi-pronged approach:

• Private sector-led job creation through incentives for investment, SME development, and entrepreneurship programs.
• Economic diversification beyond copper and traditional sectors to stimulate employment in manufacturing, tourism, ICT, and value-added agriculture.
• Labor market reforms and skills development to improve employability and align education outputs with market needs.

While government programs have targeted youth employment and skills training, challenges remain in matching labor supply with demand, improving productivity, and creating sustainable jobs that provide decent wages and social protection.

Without concerted policy action, the rising unemployment rate risks undermining social stability and economic resilience, particularly as Zambia seeks to achieve long-term growth and reduce dependency on commodity-driven sectors. Analysts warn that a focus on inclusive economic policies and structural reforms will be critical to reversing the upward trend and ensuring that Zambia’s growing labor force contributes meaningfully to national development.

The labor market outlook suggests that immediate interventions in skills development, entrepreneurship support, and private sector engagement will be essential to absorb the youth population and reduce the unemployment burden in the coming years.