FY 2024 Zambia Country Opinion Survey Report ECR Business Intelligence Team | January 2025 Acknowledgements The Zambia Country Opinion Survey is part of the County Opinion Survey Program series of the World Bank Group. This report was prepared by the Business Intelligence (BI) team, led by José De Buerba (Senior External Affairs Officer) and Svetlana Markova (Senior External Affairs Officer). Yulia Danilina, Jessica Cameron, Nan Lin, and Sofya Gubaydullina oversaw the design, reporting, and analysis of the survey results. Noreen Wambui and Irina Popova provided data support. BI acknowledges the significant contribution from the Zambia country team and independent field agency, Frontline Consulting Services. In particular, BI is grateful for the support from Carlyn Hambuba (External Affairs Officer) and Felix Chiteule (Consultant) who coordinated the survey-related activities from Lusaka, Zambia. Contents Objectives Methodology Overview Overall Context Overall Attitudes Toward the World Bank Group World Bank Group’s Support for Development Areas World Bank Group’s Engagement on the Ground in Zambia World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Zambia Communication and Outreach Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology 3 Objectives This survey was designed to assist the World Bank Group (WBG) in better understanding how Zambia stakeholders perceive the WBG. The survey explored the following questions: 1. Overall Context: How familiar are stakeholders with the WBG? How much do they trust the WBG? 2. Key Indicators: What opinions do key stakeholders have of the WBG regarding its effectiveness, relevance, alignment with Zambia’s development priorities, and other key indicators? Are opinions improving or declining? 3. Development Priorities: What areas of development are perceived to be the most important? Have the priorities changed over the past three years? How effective is the WBG perceived to be in these areas? 4. Engagement on the Ground: How is the WBG perceived as a development partner in Zambia? Are opinions improving or declining? 5. Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work: What do key stakeholders value the most regarding the WBG’s work in Zambia? What opinion do key stakeholders have of WBG financial instruments and knowledge products? Are opinions improving or declining? What are stakeholders’ suggestions for improving WBG’s effectiveness? 6. Communication and Outreach: What are the preferred communication channels? Are there differences among stakeholder groups in terms of preferred channels? 7. Message Recall: What key topics do stakeholders recall when the WBG communicates? Is there a relationship between message recall and views of the WBG’s work? 4 Methodology Overview Government Institution 27% ▪ Fielded January – March 2024 ▪ 1,292 potential participants were asked to complete a mostly quantitative survey Private Sector 26% ▪ Respondents received the questionnaire via courier or mail and returned it accordingly or completed the questionnaire online Academia / Research Center 18% ▪ List of names provided by the WBG country team and supplemented by the field agency Civil Society 12% ▪ Process managed on the ground by the field agency ▪ 624 participants (48% response rate) Media 11% ▪ 88% from Lusaka Province ▪ 27% currently collaborate with the WBG Local Government 3% ▪ Compared to FY21 Country Survey Office of a Parliamentarian 1% ▪ 567 participants (43% response rate) ▪ 65% from Lusaka Province Bilateral or Multilateral Agency 1% ▪ 39% collaborated with the WBG Other 1% Click here for details of the Respondent Sample and Methodology. What is your primary professional affiliation? (Select only 1 response) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=613) 5 6 Overall Context “Zambia is still massively under-developed. After so many years of independence, people still don’t have basic needs, e.g., shelter, water, roads...” (Government Institution Respondent) “The most important thing World Bank could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia would be to focus on developing and implementing programs that address the Country's most pressing challenges, such as poverty reduction, improving access to education, health care and clean water, enhancing agricultural productivity and promoting job creations. Additionally, the World Bank could collaborate more closely with government officials, civil society groups, and other stakeholders to ensure its interventions are context- specific and attuned to local needs and priorities.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? (N=374) Familiarity with the World Bank Group ▪ Comparison of FY21 and FY24: Respondents in this year’s Country Survey reported statistically similar levels of All Respondents 6.8 familiarity with the World Bank Group compared to respondents in the FY21 Survey: Local Government 7.0 Mean familiarity: FY24 = 6.8 FY21 = 6.6 Media 7.0 ▪ Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated that they collaborate with the WBG reported significantly Academia / Research Center 6.9 higher levels of familiarity with the institution’s work: Mean familiarity: Collaborate with WBG = 7.7 Government Institution 6.8 Do not collaborate = 6.4 ▪ Stakeholder Groups: Respondents from the private sector Civil Society 6.6 and civil society were less familiar with the WBG than respondents from other stakeholder groups. However, this difference did not reach statistical significance. Private Sector 6.5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Familiarity How familiar are you with the work of the World Bank Group in Zambia? Q Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar 7 Stakeholders Most Familiar with the UN ▪ Respondents in this year’s Country Survey were asked to United Nations 7.3 indicate their familiarity with the work of several international organizations, in addition to the World Bank Group. Of these organizations, respondents in Zambia indicated the highest levels of familiarity with the work of the United Nations, the African Union 7.0 African Union, the International Monetary Fund, and the WBG. International Monetary Fund 6.9 World Bank Group 6.8 European Union 6.4 African Development Bank 5.9 (AfDB) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Familiarity Q How familiar are you with the work of these organizations in Zambia? Scale: 1 Not familiar at all – 10 Very familiar 8 Trust in the WBG has Academia / research centers 7.4 Declined in Zambia Civil society^* 6.5 7.3 Respondents rated academia, civil society, the private 7.1 Private sector^* sector, and Zambia’s Central Bank as the most 6.4 trustworthy institutions in Zambia. Zambia’s Central Bank (Bank of 7.0 Zambia)* 6.3 Of note, all multinational institutions, including the WBG, UN, and IMF, received significantly lower 6.9 Media^* 6.1 ratings of trust in FY24 compared to FY21. In contrast, all Zambian institutions, including the government, civil Regional development banks 6.7 FY24 society, private sector, Zambia’s Central Bank, and the and organizations 7.0 FY21 media, received significantly higher ratings of trust in 6.7 FY24 compared to FY21. National government* 5.5 There were several institutions for which there were 6.6 United Nations* 7.3 significant stakeholder group differences, including: 6.6 World Bank Group* ▪ Respondents from the private sector gave the lowest 7.5 ratings for trust in the national government, local 6.5 government, Parliament, Zambia’s Central Bank, the Local government WBG, and the IMF (mean=5.8, 5.8, 5.6, 6.3, 5.9, and 5.3, respectively). 6.3 Parliament / legislative branch ▪ Respondents from government institutions gave the 6.1 International Monetary Fund* lowest ratings for trust in civil society, academia, and 6.9 the media (means=6.9, 6.8 and 6.4, respectively). 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Trust *Significant difference How much do you trust each of the following institutions to do what is right for Zambia? between years Q Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much 9 10 Overall Attitudes toward the World Bank Group “The most important thing the World Bank could do is when giving us loans as a country, the interest rate should be low, and the repayment period should not be too long. The projects or programs should improve the quality of life for every Zambian, and the projects should be sustainable for future generations and not short-term.” (Parliamentarian Respondent) “The World Bank could increase its effectiveness in Zambia by prioritizing sustainable development projects tailored to Zambia's specific needs, fostering local capacity building, and ensuring transparent and inclusive decision-making processes involving local communities and stakeholders.” (Academia Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? (N=374) Key Performance Indicators have Declined Since FY21 In FY24, respondents gave the highest ratings for Effectiveness in helping Zambia 7.0 the WBG’s effectiveness in helping Zambia achieve results^* 7.4 achieve development results; however, this was significantly lower than in the FY21 survey. The WBG’s relevance to development in Zambia, 6.8 influence on development policy, and its Relevant role in development* alignment with the country’s development priorities 7.5 were also significantly lower compared to the previous survey. Positive influence on shaping 6.7 FY24 development policy* 7.6 FY21 Alignment with development 6.5 priorities* 7.2 6.4 Helps end poverty in Zambia 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating How effective is the WBG in helping Zambia achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective Q The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Zambia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree The WBG has a positive influence on shaping the development policy in Zambia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree *Significant difference The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Zambia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree between years The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Zambia. Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree ^Compared to a mean score of the two questions asked in FY21: “Overall, please rate your impression of the WBG’s effectivenes s in Zambia.” Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective; “To what extent does the WBG’s work help to achieve development results in Zambia?” 11 Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree Stakeholders from 7.1 7.0 Effectiveness in helping 7.1 Private Sector Had Zambia achieve results 6.6 6.9 Less Positive 7.3 Government Perceptions of the WBG 7.1 7.4 Institution Relevant role in 6.8 Local Government development* 6.4 6.5 Comparisons of ratings for key performance 7.1 Civil Society indicators between stakeholder groups show that respondents from government institutions and 7.0 local government gave the highest ratings for the 7.0 Private Sector Positive influence on 6.5 WBG’s work across all KPIs. shaping development 6.3 policy* 6.8 Academia / In contrast, respondents from the private sector 7.0 Research Center were more critical of the WBG’s work, especially regarding their trust in the WBG and the WBG’s 7.0 Media 7.4 relevance and influence. It should be noted that Trust the WBG to do what 6.4 respondents from the private sector also reported is right for Zambia* 5.9 the lowest levels of familiarity with the WBG. 6.6 6.7 *Significant difference between 6.7 stakeholder groups 6.9 Alignment with 6.4 development priorities 6.2 6.3 6.7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Q For question wording and scales, please see the previous slide. Mean Rating 12 Familiarity Leads to More Positive Perceptions 7.7 Comparing ratings of key performance indicators among Effectiveness in helping Zambia 6.6 respondents highly familiar with the WBG (ratings of achieve results* 5.8 8-10 on a 10-point scale) and those with little familiarity with the WBG (ratings of 1-4 on a 10-point scale), one 7.7 can see that the more familiar stakeholders are with the Relevant role in development* 6.4 WBG, the more positive their perceptions of it and its work are. 5.4 7.4 Meaningful engagement and outreach can continue Trust the WBG to do what 6.3 to increase positive perceptions. is right for Zambia* 4.9 7.4 Positive influence on shaping 6.4 development policy* 5.7 7.2 Alignment with development 6.1 priorities* 5.3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating How familiar are you with the work of the WBG in Zambia? High Familiarity (8-10) Some Familiarity (5-7) Low Familiarity (1-4) *Significant difference between levels of familiarity Q For question wording and scales, please see slide 14. 13 Zambia’s Key Performance Indicators Slightly Lower than Other FY24 Eastern & Southern African Countries and Other FY24 IDA Countries 7.0 Effectiveness in helping achieve results 7.0 7.1 6.8 Relevant role in development 7.1 Zambia FY24 7.1 6.7 Positive influence on shaping development policy 6.9 Other Eastern & 6.9 Southern African Countries FY24 6.6 Trust the WBG to do what is right 7.1 Other IDA 7.1 Countries FY24 6.5 Alignment with development priorities 6.8 6.9 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Other Eastern & Southern African FY24 countries included: Burundi, Comoros, Lesotho, Namibia, Seychelles, Somalia, and South Sudan. Q Other IDA FY24 countries included: Benin, Bhutan, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Chad, Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, Lao PDR, Lesotho, Maldives, Mauritania, Senegal, 14 Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Sudan, Sri Lanka, and Togo. Stakeholder Trends Across Performance Indicators Respondents from the local government had the highest mean ratings across the aggregated responses to the All Respondents 6.6 eighteen COS indicator questions. In contrast, respondents from academia and the private sector had the lowest ratings. However, this difference did not reach statistical Local Government 6.9 significance. Civil Society 6.7 Collaboration with the WBG: Respondents who indicated that they collaborate with the WBG gave significantly higher ratings across the aggregated indicator questions compared to respondents who did not collaborate with the WBG: Media 6.7 Mean rating: Collaborate with WBG = 7.0 Do not collaborate = 6.4 Government Institution 6.6 Academia / Research Center 6.4 Private Sector 6.4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating of Aggregated Indicator Questions Q All Indicator Questions were asked on a Scale from 1 to 10. Click here for details on these Indicator Questions. 15 16 World Bank Group’s Support for Development Areas “The most important thing the World Bank can do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia is to focus on inclusive economic growth, poverty reduction and improving access to essential services such as education, water and healthcare.” (Government Institution Respondent) “1. The WBG should prioritize investment in infrastructure and basic services such as water sanitation and electricity. 2. Focus on promoting private sector development as the private sector is vital for job creation and economic growth. 3. Support efforts to improve governance and reduce corruption as the major impediments to development.” (Private Sector Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? (N=374) WBG: Focal Development Jobs 49% Education / Skills development Areas Health / pandemic preparedness 41% 40% Debt management 39% In FY24, stakeholders wanted the WBG to focus its resources on jobs, followed by education, health, debt management, and Agriculture / food security 38% agriculture/food security. Private sector development 27% Of note, respondents in this year's survey considered health, Water / sanitation 26% water/sanitation, transport, and energy much greater priorities Public sector governance 25% than in the FY21 survey (16%, 6%, 4%, and 7%, respectively). Transport infrastructure 24% In this year’s sample, there was a proportion of respondents who Energy 23% specialized in education (22%) and private sector development Social protection 18% (17%) who varied in their priorities for the WBG: Financial markets development 17% ▪ A greater proportion of respondents who specialize in education Macroeconomic stability 17% wanted the WBG to focus on education (59%) and social inclusion (17%), with a smaller proportion wanting the WBG to focus on Urban development 16% private sector development (17%). Macroeconomic stability 16% ▪ A greater proportion of respondents who specialize in private sector Climate change 16% development wanted the WBG to focus on private sector Digital infrastructure development 11% development (53%), debt management (53%), and transport (37%), with a smaller proportion wanting the WBG to focus on education Environment / natural resource mgmt. 11% (27%), agriculture/food security (26%), social protection (9%), and Social Inclusion 9% social inclusion (1%). Disaster risk management 8% In addition, there were statistically significant differences Regional Integration 6% between stakeholder groups in their priorities for the WBG’s Gender equity 6% focus across 13 of these 25 areas. Details are in the “Zambia COS FY24 Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file. Tourism development 5% Judiciary reform 4% Which areas should the WBG prioritize to have the most impact on development results in Zambia? Other 1% 17 Q (Select up to 5) (Percentage of Respondents, N=568) Effectiveness of WBG’s Sectoral Support The WBG’s work in water/sanitation, transport, health, and debt Finance / Institutions / Economic Growth sustainability received the highest effectiveness ratings. Of note, the perceived effectiveness of the WBG’s work in nearly every area that Debt sustainability 6.7 could be compared has significantly declined since the FY21 survey. 6.5 Human Development Public sector governance* 7.4 6.4 Health* 6.7 Trade* 7.0 7.7 6.4 FY24 6.5 Macroeconomic stability Education* 7.8 FY21 6.3 6.4 FY24 Regional integration* 7.4 Gender equity* 7.6 FY21 6.1 Private sector development* 7.0 6.3 Social inclusion* 6.8 6.0 Job creation / employment 6.2 6.2 Social protection* 6.8 Infrastructure Environmental Sustainability 6.8 Water supply and sanitation* 7.6 6.6 Agriculture and food security* 7.4 6.7 Transport* 7.3 6.6 Climate change* 7.2 FY24 Energy / extractives* 6.3 7.4 FY21 *Significant difference Environment / natural resource 6.4 Digital development* 6.3 FY24 between years 6.8 management* 6.8 FY21 6.1 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Urban development Mean Rating of Effectiveness How effective has the WBG been at achieving development results in each of these areas in Zambia? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Q (If you have NO exposure to/experience in working in any of the sectors listed below, please respond “Don’t know”) Mean Rating of Effectiveness 18 19 World Bank Group’s Engagement on the Ground in Zambia “Start with strengthening local ownership and partnership. The WBG should prioritize building strong partnerships with the Zambian government, civil society organizations, local communities. This entails engaging them in the decision-making process, listening to their needs and promoting inclusive and participatory development approaches.” (Government Institution Respondent) “Work closely with the government and local organizations to identify and address the Country's most pressing development challenges.” (Government Institution Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? (N=374) Perceptions of the WBG as a Flexible Partner have Improved in Zambia In FY24, respondents gave the highest ratings for the WBG being a long-term partner to Zambia. However, this was Being a long-term partner to 7.4 significantly lower than in the FY21 survey, as were Zambia* 8.0 perceptions of the WBG’s openness. In contrast, perceptions of the WBG as a flexible partner were significantly more positive than in FY21. 6.5 Responsiveness to needs in ▪ Of note, respondents from local government gave the highest Zambia 6.7 mean ratings for the WBG’s accessibility (mean = 6.5), whereas respondents from civil society and media gave significantly lower ratings (means = 5.0 and 5.1, respectively). 6.2 Flexibility when circumstances ▪ In addition, respondents from the local government gave the change in Zambia^* FY24 5.8 highest mean ratings for the WBG being a long-term partner FY21 (mean = 8.2), whereas respondents from the private sector and academia gave significantly lower ratings (both means = 7.1). Openness (sharing data and 5.9 In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG other information)* 6.7 could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? “Improve on how stakeholders and other people have access to World Bank staff and experts…” (Private Sector Respondent) Access to WBG staff and 5.5 experts “Foster local ownership of projects and ensure sustainable, 5.8 inclusive development, collaborate closely with local communities, prioritize capacity building and maintain flexibility in response to 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 evolving circumstances” (Government Institution Respondent} Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in terms of the following? *Significant difference Q Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree between years 20 ^Compared to the mean of institutional flexibility and flexibility to changes in the country context asked in FY21. The WBG’s Collaborations in Zambia Are Consistent or Have Improved In FY24, the WBG received the highest ratings for the 7.4 National government effectiveness of its collaboration with the national 7.5 government. Ratings for the WBG’s collaboration with the national government, other donors and development Other donors and 7.1 partners, and the private sector were consistent with those in development partners FY21, while ratings for the WBG’s collaboration with civil 7.2 society were significantly improved compared to FY21. ▪ Of note, respondents from civil society gave the highest ratings 6.9 Local government for the WBG’s collaboration with civil society (mean = 7.4 ), whereas respondents from government institutions gave significantly lower ratings (mean = 6.3). 6.8 ▪ Respondents from local government gave the highest ratings Civil society* for the WBG’s collaboration with academia (mean = 7.4), 6.2 FY24 whereas respondents from academia and government FY21 institutions gave significantly lower ratings (means = 6.3 and Academia / 6.7 6.0, respectively). research centers In your opinion, what is the most important thing the 6.5 Parliament / WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? legislative branch “Collaborate with Zambia experts in the development of interventions.” (Government Institution Respondent) 6.5 “They should work with more stakeholders, both private and Private sector 6.4 public.” (Government Institution Respondent) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Zambia, in terms of collaborating Q with the following groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree *Significant difference between years 21 Stakeholders Want the Bank to Collaborate More with Private Sector A majority of respondents in this year’s survey indicated that Private sector 58% the WBG should collaborate more with the private sector in addition to its partnership with the national government. Respondents also welcomed more collaboration with civil society and local government. Civil society 43% ▪ Outreach to the private sector is additionally recommended because respondents from this stakeholder group were less familiar with the WBG and held more critical views of its work. Local government 36% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? Academia / research 25% centers “To ensure effectiveness, the World Bank should improve its collaboration with the local government and private sector. This will allow the process of answering and dealing with Other donors and 17% problems at the grassroots level.” development partners (Government Institution Respondent) “Need to work with the private sector, especially small and Parliament / legislative medium enterprises, and cooperative movement – growth and 11% branch transformation of a sustainable economy will be achieved. SMEs and cooperatives are key drivers of growth across sectors in most economies for job creation and poverty reduction.” (Private Sector Respondent) Other 3% In addition to its partnership with the national government, which of the following Q should the WBG collaborate with more to have greater impact in Zambia? 22 (Select up to 2) (Percentage of Respondents, N=588) 23 World Bank Group’s Financial Instruments and Knowledge Work “Support Zambia through the mobilization of more grants instead of loans, given the Country's fiscal challenges. Support and demand for accountable governance and systems development in the area of public resource management with a pro-poor focus. Poverty levels are increasing in Zambia so there is need to work on frameworks that will increase the country's wealth creation capacity and fair distribution of resources to reduce inequalities.” (Bilateral/Multilateral Respondent) “Collaborate more on capacity building and training. Finances can be provided but without capacity and training to utilise the resources, its effort are wasted.” (Civil Society Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? (N=374) Financial Resources Considered the Bank’s Greatest Value to Zambia A majority of respondents considered the WBG’s financial Financial resources (e.g., budget resources to be its greatest value to Zambia. In addition, support, investment lending, grants, 57% nearly a third of respondents identified capacity development trust funds) and training. ▪ Respondents from local government were the most likely to Capacity development and training 31% identify financial resources as the WBG’s greatest value (71%), whereas respondents from government institutions were significantly less likely (45%). Knowledge and analytical products 23% (e.g., data, reports, policy notes) In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG Mobilizing third party financial could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? resources (incl. both public and 22% “The WBG should increase budget support to the Country and private) also help the country to reduce the national debt. The national debt is the largest hindrance to achieving economic stability because it takes away all resources towards servicing of the Cooperative Partners coordination 21% debt.” (Local Government Respondent) “1. Provide more concessional and grant funding. 2. Support Technical assistance and implementation support (incl. 19% access to finance by the Private Sector. 3. Support project design and implementation) infrastructure at Local Government level. 4. Support local skills development.” (Government Institution Respondent) Convening / bringing together 17% “Continue collaboration with key development partner/ different groups of stakeholders stakeholders and global knowledge sharing, especially on debt sustainability strategies.” (Government Institution Respondent) Other 2% Which WBG instruments do you VALUE the most in Zambia? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=602) 24 Perceptions of the WBG’s Financial Instruments Have Declined in Zambia Regarding the WBG’s financial instruments, respondents had the highest levels of agreement that The WBG effectively monitors and 7.0 the WBG effectively monitors and evaluates its evaluates the projects it supports in projects and that the WBG insists on accountability Zambia* 7.5 through its lending; however, these aspects of the WBG’s financial instruments, along with the adequacy The WBG insists on accountability through 6.8 of the WBG’s ESF requirements, were rated its lending (e.g., performance-based significantly lower this year compared to the FY21 financing, resources tied to results)* 7.9 survey. In your opinion, what is the most important thing 6.5 the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness The WBG’s Environmental and Social Framework requirements are reasonable* FY24 in Zambia? 6.9 “Develop localized M&E systems across different FY21 projects the WBG is implementing in Zambia. Employ fair recruitment of project(s) evaluators in order to have non- 6.4 The conditions of the WBG’s financing are biased progress reports.” (Private Sector Respondent) competitive compared to markets “Proper accountability to all the loans, grants, etc. given to Zambia. It should work in line with the country’s requirements. It should involve the government institution The WBG’s financial instruments (i.e., 6.3 and train them.” (Government Institution Respondent) budget support, loans, grants, trust funds) meet the needs of Zambia 6.6 “Enhance monitoring and evaluation of projects, especially after the project is done.” 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 (Local Government Respondent) Mean Rating *Significant difference Q To what extent do you agree/disagree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree between years 25 24% of Respondents Used the WBG’s Knowledge Work, which They Perceived Similarly to FY21 The WBG brings global expertise to Zambia 7.7 as part of its knowledge work^ 7.8 Yes Working with the WBG increases Zambia’s 7.6 24% institutional capacity 7.7 Have you ever used Significance of WBG knowledge work 7.3 the WBG’s knowledge contribution to development results in work, including Zambia 7.7 participating in FY24 workshops or training programs? I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s 7.2 FY21 knowledge work in Zambia No 76% When I need to consult the WBG’s 6.6 knowledge work, I know how to find it Respondents from local government and government The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to 6.4 institutions were significantly more likely to have used Zambia’s context^^ 6.6 WBG knowledge work (73% and 40%, respectively) compared to other stakeholder groups. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mean Rating Among Knowledge Users Have you ever used the WBG’s knowledge work, including participating in workshops or training programs? (Percentage of Respon dents, N=548) To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree Q How significant a contribution do you believe the WBG’s knowledge work makes to development results in Zambia? Scale: 1 Not s ignificant at all – 10 Very significant ^Compared to “Source of relevant information on global good practices" asked in FY21. 26 ^^Compared to "Are adaptable to Zambia’s specific development challenges and country circumstances" in FY21 . 27 The Future Role of the World Bank Group in Zambia “1. They should develop tailor-made programs, projects specifically for Zambia. 2. Reduce conditionalities for Zambia to access debt relief, grants, aids, etc. 3. Respect our culture and avoid imposing strange cultures which are against our norms.” (Government Institution Respondent) “1. Ensuring that the bottom-up approach to planning is enhanced where the grassroots are given an opportunity to voice their development needs. 2. The WBG’s intervention should be in line with the provisions of our national development plans to yield the intended results.” (Local Government Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? (N=374) How Can the WBG Increase its Effectiveness? (Open-Ended Responses) Greater alignment and financial support to meet Zambia’s needs, a better understanding of the local context and capacity, more engagement with stakeholders, and more communication regarding the WBG’s work Focus Area • Ensure sustainable development in all projects with an emphasis on Operational climate change adaptation/resiliency Effectiveness, • Projects should benefit all Zambians, especially youth and those in more 5% rural areas Results 5% • Private sector development and job creation Knowledge, Focus Area • Human capital – education and healthcare 10% 28% • Infrastructure, especially transport, water, and energy • Agriculture development, especially modernizing farming techniques • Macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability Communication, 14% Engagement • Engage on a more local level to better understand the needs and context in Zambia • More engagement, especially with the private sector and civil society, Financial Engagement, can increase transparency and inclusivity Support, 24% • Be more open and accessible to those in the public and private sectors 14% for more effective collaboration Financial • Assist Zambia in debt relief Support • Increased financial support, especially for SMEs and development needs • Better align financial products to Zambia’s needs and economic situation In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? (N=374) Q All percentages are calculated based on the total number of comments made by respondents; individual comments could be counted multiple times depending on the number of topics they covered, so the sum of all percentages may be greater than 100%. 28 How Can the WBG Increase its Effectiveness? (Open-Ended Responses) Greater alignment and financial support to meet Zambia’s needs for, better understanding of the local context and capacity, more engagement with stakeholders, and more communication regarding the WBG’s work Operational Effectiveness, Communication • More communications regarding WBG projects and their 5% results is needed to increase awareness of the WBG’s work Results, • More openness, community outreach, and access to WBG staff 5% Knowledge Focus Area Knowledge • More capacity development and training given the pivotal role 10% 28% that it plays in ensuring sustainable development • Knowledge work should be more accessible through greater dissemination and translation Communication, 14% Results • Better align projects and their implementation to the context and capacity for more sustainability of projects Financial • The WBG’s financial support should be paired with stern Support, Engagement, accountability requirements and rigorous monitoring and 14% 24% evaluation of projects to ensure they achieve desired results Operational • More streamlined and flexible procedures and processes Effectiveness • Do not try a one-size-fits-all approach, tailor projects to Zambia’s needs, context, and capacity In your opinion, what is the most important thing the World Bank Group could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? (N=374) Q All percentages are calculated based on the total number of comments made by respondents; individual comments could be counted multiple times depending on the number of topics they covered, so the sum of all percentages may be greater than 100%. 29 30 Communication and Outreach “1. Improve transparency in their work and publish their work for the public to see. 2. They should improve their contact with staff so that we can have face-to-face communication. 3. Information should be given to people in different languages so that they should be able to understand what the World Bank Group in Zambia is doing.” (Civil Society Respondent) “Effective communication and awareness to the masses. Transparency and accountable in its dealings. Effective use of electronic devices and media.” (Private Sector Respondent) “Publicity of their work is very limited. They also need to work on changing the public perception of the work they do. WBG is often perceived to be an enemy of the most vulnerable or poor…” (Civil Society Respondent) Q In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? (N=374) Direct Contact and Events were the Most Preferred WBG Channels Respondents in Zambia most preferred to receive the WBG’s communications through direct contact with staff, followed by events/conferences/seminars/workshops (in person or online). Top 2 Preferred WBG Channels All Government Civil Private Local Government Academia Media Respondents Institutions Society Sector Direct contact with staff 67% 66% 65% 74% 68% 59% 69% (e.g., in person, virtually, phone, email) Event / conference / seminar / 43% 47% 47% 45% 41% 31% 56% workshop (in person or online) e-Newsletters 26% 27% 41% 19% 27% 31% 19% Social media 26% 31% 6% 15% 25% 36% 18% (e.g., Facebook, Twitter) Direct messaging 25% 15% 29% 42% 29% 22% 25% (e.g., WhatsApp, Telegram, Viber) Other 1% 2% 0% 3% 0% 0% 0% How would you prefer to receive communication from the WBG? (Select up to 2) Q (Percentage of Respondents, N=600) 31 50% of Respondents Recalled Seeing/Hearing about the WBG Recently, Most Often on TV Half of all respondents recalled hearing or seeing something about the WBG recently. Respondents most often reported seeing/hearing about the WBG on TV, followed by social media and newspapers (print or online). Television (TV) 63% Less common among academia (30%) Social media 52% Less common among Newspapers (print or online) 41% academia (21%) Radio 32% Do you recall seeing or hearing WBG websites 31% Less common among No Yes academia (16%) 50% anything about 50% the WBG Direct contact with WBG staff (e.g., in 20% recently? person, virtually, phone, email) Event / conference / seminar (in person More common among 16% or online) local government (58%) Blogs 11% e-Newsletters 6% Direct messaging (e.g., WhatsApp, More common among Respondents from private sector and academia 5% local government (25%) Telegram, Viber) were significantly less likely to recall seeing/hearing about the WBG recently (32% and 42%, Podcasts 4% respectively) whereas respondents from local government were the most likely (77%). Other 4% Do you recall seeing or hearing anything about the WBG recently? (N=608) Q If you answered “Yes”, where do you recall seeing or hearing this information? (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respond ents, N=304) 32 The WBG’s Work on Climate Change, Debt Relief, and Food Security were the Most Commonly Recalled Topics Respondents most frequently recalled the WBG’s work or Climate change 48% research on climate change, and debt relief for developing countries, and food security. Debt relief for developing countries 42% ▪ In addition, there were statistically significant differences between stakeholder groups in their recall across 6 of these Food security 38% 13 topics. For the most part, respondents from academia Ending poverty in developing were less likely to recall these topics, while respondents 32% countries from local government and government institutions were the most likely. Details are in the “Zambia COS FY24 Pandemic preparedness 26% Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file. Women empowerment 24% Job creation / employment 23% In your opinion, what is the most important thing the WBG could do to increase its effectiveness in Zambia? Youth development 21% “The World Bank Group should try to share information about its work and how it helps developing countries WBG economic forecasts 20% through direct contact with staff or event hosting.” Changes to the WBG financial and (Civil Society Respondent) 17% operational model “1. Be more aggressive in the spreading of initial Digital economy 15% knowledge, beyond the bureaucratic barriers, down to the ordinary Zambian. 2. Improved access to WBG resources Human capital 13% and materials. 3. Create platforms for feedback from the general population, especially on social media as there's a Other 12% larger presence there.” (Government Institution Respondent) If you answered “Yes”, what topics were included in what you saw or heard about WBG’s work or research? Q (Select all that apply) (Percentage of Respondents, N=303) 33 Climate Change Communications can be More Impactful when Related to Stakeholders’ Top Concerns: Food Insecurity, Droughts, Water Availability, and Jobs Approximately 8 in 10 respondents were very concerned about the potential impact of decreased crop yields and increased food insecurity, more frequent and severe droughts, decreased water availability and quality, and loss of jobs due to climate change in Zambia. These key areas of concern should be considered to make communications about climate change more impactful. Very concerned Somewhat concerned A little concerned Not concerned at all Decreased crop yields / increased food insecurity 83% More frequent and severe droughts 80% Decreased water availability / quality 78% Loss of jobs 77% More frequent and severe heatwaves 72% Land and forest degradation 70% Air pollution 69% More frequent and severe floods 65% Climate-driven migration 62% Extinction of plant / animal species 60% More frequent and intense wild fires 53% Increased erosion of shoreline 47% Coastal flooding due to sea level rise 46% Q How concerned are you about the following potential impacts of climate change in Zambia? (Percentage of Respondents, N=~599) 34 35 Sample Demographics and Detailed Methodology Sample Demographics What is the primary specialization Do you of your work? (N=568) collaborate/work Yes Education 22% with the World Bank 27% Group (WBG) Private sector development / trade 17% in Zambia? Other 12% (N=596) Generalist (specialize in multiple) 9% Respondents from government No institutions and local government Health / pandemic preparedness 8% were significantly more likely to 73% collaborate/work with the WBG Public sector governance 7% (54% and 61%, respectively) compared to respondents from Agriculture and food security 5% other stakeholder groups. Social protection 4% Digital development 4% Transport 3% Macroeconomics, fiscal / debt mgmt. 2% Which of the World Bank (IDA) 93% Urban development 2% following WBG International Finance agencies do you Corporation (IFC) 41% Legal / human rights 2% collaborate/work Energy 2% with in Zambia? Multilateral Investment 15% Guarantee Agency (MIGA) Water / sanitation 1% (N=157) International Centre for Gender equity 1% Settlement of Investment 7% Disputes (ICSID) Environment / natural resource mgmt. 1% Climate change 0% 36 Sample Demographics (continued) Which best represents your What’s your age? (N=607) geographic location? (N=583) 25 or younger <1% Lusaka Province 88% 26-35 26% Central Province 2% 36-45 29% Copperbelt 2% Province 46-55 17% Luapula Province 2% Southern 56 and above 7% 2% Prefer not to Other, <1% Province specify, 6% Prefer not to 12% Eastern Province 1% specify Northern Province 1% Female Muchinga 30% What is your Male 1% 63% Province gender? North- Western (N=609) 1% Province Western Province <1% 37 Detailed Methodology Percentage of Respondents FY 2021 FY 2024 From January to April 2024, a total of 1,292 stakeholders in Zambia were invited to Government Principals: Office of the 12% 0% provide their opinions on the WBG’s work by participating in a Country Opinion Survey (COS). President, Minister, Parliamentarian A list of potential participants was compiled by the WBG country team and the field agency. Government Institutions: Employee of a Participants were drawn from the Offices of the President, Prime Minister, Minister, and Ministry, Department, Project Implementation Parliament, government institutions, local governments, bilateral or multilateral agencies, the 24% 27% Unit, Independent Government Institution, private sector, civil society, academia, and the media. Judiciary, State-Owned Enterprise Of these stakeholders, 624 participated in the survey (48% response rate). Respondents Local Government 11% 3% received the questionnaire via courier or mail and returned it accordingly or completed the questionnaire online. Bilateral/Multilateral Agency: Embassy, Development Organization, Development 1% 1% This year’s survey results were compared to the FY21 Survey, which had a response Bank, UN Agency rate of 43% (N=567). Civil Society Organization: Local and regional NGO, Community-Based Comparing responses across Country Surveys reflects changes in attitudes over time, but Organization, Private Foundation, 21% 12% also changes in respondent samples, changes in methodology, and changes to the survey Professional/Trade Association, instrument itself. To reduce the influence of the latter factor, only those questions with similar Faith-Based Group, Youth Group response scales/options were analyzed. However, the stakeholder compositions for both survey years should be considered when interpreting these comparisons as no government Private Sector: Private Company, Financial 15% 26% Sector Organization, Private Bank principals responded in FY24 , and there were much larger samples from the private sector and academia and much smaller samples from civil society and local government. Academia / Research Center 7% 18% Key statistically significant findings (tested at the research standard of p < .05) are noted throughout the report. Media 7% 11% Breakdowns for individual questions by stakeholder group can be found in the “Zambia Other 2% 1% COS FY24 Appendices with data breakdowns.xlsx” file published in the WBG Microdata Library, along with the survey microdata and this report. Total Number of Respondents* 556 613 What is your primary professional affiliation? (Select only 1 response) Q *Not all respondents provided information about their professional affiliation. Therefore, the total number of respondents listed in the table is lower than the N reported in the methodology. 38 Indicator Questions Every country that engages in the Country Opinion Survey (COS) must include specific indicator questions, several of which are aggregated for the World Bank Group’s annual Corporate Scorecard and are highlighted in red below. A1_5. How much do you trust the World Bank Group to do what is right for Zambia? Scale: 1 Not at all – 10 Very much A2. How effective is the World Bank Group in helping Zambia achieve development results? Scale: 1 Not effective at all – 10 Very effective A3. How significant a contribution do you believe the WBG's knowledge work make to development results in Zambia? Scale: 1 Not significant at all – 10 Very significant To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree A4. The WBG currently plays a relevant role in development in Zambia. A5. The WBG’s work is aligned with what I consider the development priorities for Zambia. A6. The WBG has a positive influence on shaping development policy in Zambia. A7. The WBG’s work helps end poverty in Zambia. To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in terms of each of the following? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C1_1. Responsiveness to needs in Zambia C1_2. Access to WBG staff and experts C1_3. Flexibility when circumstances change in Zambia C1_5. Being a long-term partner to Zambia To what extent is the WBG an effective development partner in Zambia, in terms of collaborating with the following groups? Scale: 1 To no degree at all – 10 To a very significant degree C2_1. National government C2_4. Private sector C2_5. Civil society C2_6. Other donors and development partners To what extent do you agree with the following statements? Scale: 1 Strongly disagree – 10 Strongly agree C4_1. The WBG’s financial instruments (i.e., budget support, loans, grants, trust funds) meet the needs of Zambia. C6_1. I am satisfied with the quality of the WBG’s knowledge work in Zambia. C6_4. The WBG’s knowledge work is tailored to Zambia’s context. 39 Thank you For more information about this report or the Country Opinion Survey program, please contact: countrysurveys@worldbankgroup.org