July 17, 2025
On 17th July 2025, CUTS successfully convened the Copperbelt Inter-University Debate under the project “Advocacy for Sustainable Debt Management and Enhanced Oversight Mechanisms”, supported by the Open Society Foundations.
Held in Ndola, the debate brought together young intellectuals from leading Copperbelt institutions to critically engage on Zambia’s debt situation and its effects on social sector development.
The event featured a keynote address from the Provincial Permanent Secretary, Mr. Lawrence Mwanza, who reaffirmed the government’s openness to collaborate with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in championing sustainable debt solutions.
With motions ranging from the IMF’s role in Zambia to prioritization of social sector spending, the debate amplified youth perspectives on fiscal accountability and public finance management.
We thank all participants, the distinguished judging panel from the Town Clerk’s Office, Chamber of Mines, and local media, as well as our partners for making this space a success.