Zambia is one African country which has evolved from being a classic example of a colonial economy to become an independent state with a large export enclave. The economy has had to face structural problems that have at one time or another, characterised other African economies. This study therefore throws light upon many aspects of the labour markets elsewhere in Africa. Originally published in 1979, this book analyses 3 stages of development in the Zambian labour force: the first running up to 1930 when the Copperbelt was opened up, was followed by over 30 years of economic and employment growth, leading to the emergence of a wage and skill structure that differentiated strongly between Africans and non-Africans. Finally there is the period since the early 1960s when the racial basis for employment and earnings restrictions have been lifted but where inequalities remain. Each of these stages is examined in detail and complemented by a theoretical discussion of the factors affecting the development of the wage structure and earnings differentials within Zambia. The impact of government policy income distribution is also discussed and illustrated by means of a comparative study of government income policies in Zambia, Tanzania and Kenya.
1. English Local Government Before 1832 2. The Making of the New Structure, 1832-1888 3. The Development of Central Control, 1832-1888
Biography
James Fry has an Oxford Economics DPhil from his time at Nuffield College. His first job was as an Economics Lecturer at the University of Zambia, with a period as Professeur Visiteur at l'Université Officielle du Congo, Lubumbashi, Katanga, DRC. He returned to the UK as Stipendiary Lecturer in Economics at Magdalen College, Oxford. His time in Central Africa helped to develop his interest in the economics of commodity markets, initially focusing on mining and minerals. He founded LMC International in 1980 which developed to become the world's largest consultancy in the economics of agriculture with offices in several countries. James has pursued a parallel career in local politics as an Oxford City Councillor and was Lord Mayor in 2022/23, chairing the committees on Audit, Finance and Budget.
