IT is now becoming very clear that the economic policies that Government has put in place are sound and workable.

This manifestation can be seen in the economic indicators.

From the time the country closed the year on single digit inflation at 9.9 per cent, the rate has continued to fall with January recording a further drop at 9.6 per cent.

Economic growth of 6.3 per cent was attained well beyond the 4.5 per cent target.

The international reserves have reached $1.8 billion, which is about four months worth of imports while the exchange rate has remained stable at K4,600 to one US dollar after long periods of volatility.

The copper mines are at almost full production despite facing a serious threat from the global economic recession.

This is indeed, as some economists indicated, a strong and good foundation that will make it possible to achieve the projected seven per cent economic growth this year.

It shows that although the policies were mooted at a time the country was confronted with the spill over effects of the credit crunch, they were well thought out.

Since 2008 when the current leadership of President Banda took over, the economy has remained resilient despite the recession, hence the positive indicators that have been recorded.

Resilience in an economy requires well thought out plans and a supportive framework to ensure those given tasks undertake them diligently.

Zambia needs to stay on the economic path that it has charted and this can only be achieved if all players in the economic sectors do their part.

It requires diligent use of resources, which are a catalyst for economic growth.

The directive therefore from President Rupiah Banda to controlling officers to ensure prudent and timely use of resources is very apt.

Those charged with the responsibility of implementing key projects need to make sure the money allocated under the new Budget cycle is used for its intended purpose.

This calls for utmost diligence in the management and disbursement of public funds.

It would be inexcusable-after all the good economic policies- to see money return to the treasury void on account of inefficiency.