The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva is set to visit Lusaka, Zambia from January 22 to January 24 and Kigali, Rwanda from January 24 to January 26, IMF said.
She is visiting the two African countries under the theme of “Building a more resilient and inclusive future in Sub-Saharan Africa”. It is indicated that in Zambia, the Managing Director is scheduled to meet with President Hakainde Hichilema, Minister of Finance Situmbeko Musokotwane, and Central Bank Governor Denny Kalyalya to discuss the authorities’ reforms agenda to promote inclusive and sustainable growth, including the role of social spending, transparency, and public financial management reforms.
“They will also discuss how to make much needed progress in restructuring Zambia’s debt. Her agenda also includes a townhall with students at the University of Zambia, as well as meetings with school leaders, social cash transfer beneficiaries, private sector representatives and CSO leaders. As part of her visit, the Managing Director will also open the new IMF Lusaka Office,” IMF said in a statement.
In Rwanda, the Managing Director will meet with President H.E Paul Kagame (TBC), Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente, Minister of Finance Uzziel Ndagijimana, Minister of Environment Jeanne d’Arc Mujawamariyato, Central Bank Governor John Rwangombwathe, and other officials to discuss the country’s economic outlook, Rwanda’s ongoing efforts to build climate resilience, and how the IMF can support these efforts, especially through the recently approved IMF supported program for Rwanda under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility.
During her visit, the Managing Director will also have a closed door roundtable with East African Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors from East African Community (EAC) countries, followed by a moderated panel on the region’s efforts to mitigate climate change, as well as meetings with green entrepreneurs and youth representatives involved in green programs at Nyandungu Eco Park.