Airtel Africa Connects with SpaceX

By Daily News Reporter

Airtel Africa has announced an agreement with SpaceX to introduce Starlink Direct-to-Cell satellite connectivity across all its 14 markets that serve 174 million customers. Through this partnership, Airtel Africa customers with compatible smartphones in regions without terrestrial coverage can have network connectivity through Starlink, which is the world’s largest 4G connectivity provider.

The satellite-to-mobile service will begin in 2026 with data for select applications and text messaging. This agreement also includes support for Starlink’s first broadband Direct to Cell system, with next-generation satellites that will be capable of providing high-speed connectivity to smartphones with 20x improved data speed. The rollout will proceed in line with country-specific regulatory approvals.

Airtel Africa which is the first mobile network operator in Africa to offer Starlink Direct to Cell service, powered by 650 satellites to provide seamless connectivity to its customers in remote areas. This partnership reinforces Airtel Africa’s commitment to bridge digital divide and offer seamless connectivity to its customers. Airtel Africa and Starlink will continue to explore additional collaboration opportunities to further advance digital inclusion across the continent.

Airtel Africa MD and Chief Executive Officer Sunil Taldar said: “Airtel Africa remains committed to delivering great experience to our customers by improving access to reliable and contiguous mobile connectivity solutions. Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell technology complements the terrestrial infrastructure and even reaches areas where deploying terrestrial network solutions are challenging. We are very excited about the collaboration with Starlink, which will establish a new standard for service availability across all our 14 markets.”

And Starlink Vice President of Sales, Stephanie Bednarek stated that through this agreement with Airtel Africa, we’ll also deliver the next-generation technology to offer high-speed broadband connectivity, which will offer faster access to many essential services.

“For the first time, people across Africa will stay connected in remote areas where terrestrial coverage cannot reach, and we’re so thrilled that Starlink Direct to Cell can power this life-changing service. Through this agreement with Airtel Africa, we’ll also deliver our next-generation technology to offer high-speed broadband connectivity, which will offer faster access to many essential services.” Said Bednarek.

 Zambia's Insurance Industry Continues to Grow, but Penetration Remains Low

 By Daily News Reporter

Lusaka, Zambia - The insurance and pensions industry in Zambia has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, according to the Pensions and Insurance Authority (PIA) during the media engagement in Lusaka.

Speaking at a recent event, PIA Registrar and CEO Mrs. Namakau M. Ntini highlighted the industry's progress, citing regulatory updates, including micro insurance regulations, market conduct regulations, and reinsurance regulations. These regulations aim to build public confidence, expand financial inclusion, and strengthen the industry's foundation.

Mrs. Ntini also gave the update on the key highlights that Expected to close 2025 with assets over 13 billion Kwacha and liabilities of about 11 billion Kwacha, representing a 12% growth.

For the Net assets value stood at 25.6 billion Kwacha as of September 2025, with contributions increasing to 745 million Kwacha.

 Introduction of micro insurance regulations, market conduct regulations, and reinsurance regulations to promote financial inclusion and industry growth.

Mrs. Ntini noted that the industry is responding to climate-related risks and investing in climate resilience and

“Climate risk solutions can strengthen resilience for farmers and businesses...” She added

So far the industry is working to develop cyber insurance products and promote cyber security practices.

And soon PIA will be launching a regulatory sandbox to foster innovation and address emerging risks.

Mrs. Ntini emphasized the importance of collaboration between the industry, regulators, and stakeholders to promote financial inclusion, strengthen the industry, and contribute to Zambia's economic development.

The PIA's efforts aim to enhance the industry's contribution to Zambia's economic growth, improve financial inclusion, and promote sustainable development. Zambia’s insurance industry continues to post strong growth in premiums, yet penetration remains stubbornly low,

Meanwhile according to remarks made by PIA Manager Market Development (Pensions), Mr. Aaron Mukuwa

Figures show that total industry premiums have risen consistently over the past six years:

2024 • K9, 500,000,000.00 (22%)

2023 - K7, 811,349,000.00 (13%)

2022 - K6, 032,887,712.00 (12.8%)

2021 - K5, 343,896.183.00 (16.9%)

2020 - K4, 568,502,223.00 (21.6%)

2019 - K3, 756,796,261.00 (18.0%)

2018 - K3, 182,855,089.00 (16.2%)

Despite this upward trajectory, insurance penetration stood at just 1.3% in 2023 and 1.4% in 2024, underscoring the challenge of expanding coverage across households and businesses. A Film Scope survey currently underway is expected to provide updated penetration ratios for 2025.

Mr. Mukuwa also highlighted climate change as one of the most pressing issues facing the sector. Droughts and load-shedding have hit farmers’ hard, prompting initiatives such as FISP, which aim to cushion agricultural producers against climate shocks.

Authorities are also promoting green finance, encouraging insurers to provide coverage for institutions engaged in sustainable projects. “Insurance must play a role in building a resilient society,” Mukuwa emphasized.

The Insurance Act of 2021, now in its third year, introduced a risk-based solvency framework. Regulators are also rolling out new rules for micro insurance, medical insurance, marine insurance, and claims settlement procedures.

To foster innovation, regulatory sandboxes have been established, allowing insurers to test products in controlled environments under oversight.

The Zambian insurance industry’s story is one of growth and transformation. While premiums continue to rise, the sector must overcome challenges of penetration, trust, and skills to fully realize its potential. With reforms, green finance initiatives, and innovation through sandboxes, the industry is positioning itself for a more resilient and inclusive future.

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 *Zambia Signs Emission Reduction Agreement, Paving the Way for Sustainable Development*

By Daily News Reporter 

Lusaka, Zambia - The Government of Zambia, through the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, has signed a Nested Emission Reduction Performance Agreement with Biocarbon Partners, marking a significant milestone in the country's efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.

The agreement is part of the Eastern Province Jurisdictional Sustainable Landscape Program, a initiative launched in September 2020 with support from the UN and funding from the Endicott BioCarbon Fund initiative, contributed by Germany, Norway, and the US.

The program aims to reduce emissions and protect ecosystems in the Eastern Province.

 The initiative will empower local communities and foster economic growth in the region and The program will create opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and improve food security.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Nicholas Mudaly, Chief Executive Officer of Biocarbon Partners, said "This agreement represents a continued collaboration between the Government of Zambia and Biocarbon Partners, reflecting a shared commitment to reducing emissions, protecting ecosystems, and empowering local communities."

The program's approach links sustainable landscape and natural resource management projects across the Eastern Province, testing and scaling up integrated natural resource management, community development, climate resilience, and conservation efforts.

The signing of this agreement demonstrates Zambia's commitment to meeting its global climate targets and promoting sustainable development. The initiative is expected to bring tangible benefits to the people of the Eastern Province, including improved livelihoods, food security, and economic growth. 

And speaking at signing ceremony Ministry of Green Economy and Environment Permanent Secretary Dr. Douty Chibamba stated that This Nested Emission Reduction Performance Agreement signing follows the successive conclusion of the 56th Chieftain Emission Reduction Performance Agreements under the Eastern Province to the Sustainable Landscape Program. 

These agreements reflect the strong commitment of our traditional leaders and rural communities to conserving forests, adopting sustainable practices, and participating actively in climate mitigation efforts."

And further after the signing ceremony BCP presented two cheques for Luangwa Community Forest Project (LCFP-EP) K32m and Eastern Province K32M.

The Government of Zambia and Biocarbon Partners are working together to ensure the successful implementation of the program and to make a lasting impact on the lives of the people in the Eastern Province.

 Innovation Takes Flight: Zambia Celebrates International Civil Aviation Day

By Daily News Reporter

Zambia today joined the global aviation community in commemorating International Civil Aviation Day, with leaders underscoring the country’s strides in safety oversight, infrastructure modernisation, and regional connectivity.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Transport and Logistics, Hon. Frank Tayali, MP, said the theme “Advancing Innovation for Global Aviation Development” reflects Zambia’s drive to position aviation as a key enabler of economic growth, tourism, and trade.

The Minister also highlighted the potential of air cargo growth to transform airports into economic hubs, while reaffirming Zambia’s support for open skies under the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM).

And CAA Director General, Captain Derrick Luembe, reported strong regulatory progress over the past year, through Enhanced surveillance and increased safety audits, Strengthened alignment with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and Expand drone sector regulation, with a dedicated Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) unit.

He also emphasised that the Authority will prioritise digital transformation, capacity building, cybersecurity readiness, and stakeholder engagement, stressing that “aviation safety is a shared responsibility.”

The commemoration brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including the Civil Aviation Authority, airlines, airports, aviation training institutions, the Aircraft Accidents Investigations Board, the Zambia Air Force, and industry partners. Together, they reaffirmed Zambia’s collective commitment to building a future-ready aviation industry that embraces innovation, strengthens safety, and enhances regional and global connectivity.

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Zambia’s Social Protection Dialogue Calls for Stronger Investment Case

By Daily News Reporter

The Government of Zambia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening social protection systems with the launch of the 2025 National Social Protection Dialogue, commemorated under the theme “Social Protection as a Human Right: Bridging Gaps for Financing for Inclusive and Sustainable Development.”

Speaking through Permanent Secretary Ms Angela Kawandami, Minister of Community Development and Social Services Ms Doreen Mwamba underscored the Government’s dedication to ensuring that social protection remains comprehensive and inclusive. She highlighted that the Dialogue serves as a vital platform for stakeholders to reflect on progress made, while identifying gaps that require sustainable solutions.

Ms Mwamba noted that Zambia has continued to make significant strides toward achieving Vision 2030, which seeks to guarantee sustainable security against deprivation and extreme vulnerability. She emphasized that social protection is not only a safety net but also a powerful tool in reducing poverty and fostering resilience among vulnerable populations.

Adding to the discussion, Civil Society for Poverty Reduction (CSPR) Executive Director Ms Isabel Mukelebai stressed the importance of aligning social protection with broader economic frameworks. She cautioned that social protection cannot operate in isolation from fiscal and monetary policies, urging for stronger policy harmonisation.

And one of the delegates from kafue Ms Judith Maamba (name with held) stated that this meeting has gave her an opportynunity through CSPR to express her views on social protection in the rural areas. 

The Dialogue, which brought together government officials, civil society, and development partners, aims to strengthen investment in social protection systems that are inclusive, sustainable, and resilient. Stakeholders agreed that financing remains a critical gap, but with coordinated efforts, Zambia can build a robust social protection framework that ensures no citizen is left behind.

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“Zambia Advances Climate-Resilient Development With Green Finance Taxonomy”

 

By Daily News Reporter

As climate change continues to surge across the globe, threatening ecosystems, economies, and communities, Zambia has stepped forward with a bold homegrown solution: the launch of its first-ever Green Finance Taxonomy (ZGFT).

The initiative, unveiled by Minister of Green Economy and Environment Mike Mposha, positions Zambia among Africa’s frontrunners in sustainable finance. Developed in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme’s Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) and other partners, the taxonomy provides a science-based framework for identifying environmentally sustainable economic activities.

Africa remains one of the regions most vulnerable to climate change. Despite contributing the least to global emissions, countries like Zambia face recurring droughts, floods, and rising temperatures. Financing adaptation and resilience has been a persistent challenge. In 2023, Africa received $15 billion in adaptation finance, far short of the $70 billion needed annually. Between 2021 and 2022, total climate finance to the continent was $44 billion, only a fraction of the $200 billion required annually for clean energy transition.               Contributions from developed nations often arrive as loans, leaving low-income countries struggling to raise resources for survival.

It also defines six environmental objectives, ranging from climate change mitigation to biodiversity protection, ensuring investments align with both national priorities and global sustainability standards.

By establishing a credible rulebook for green investments, the taxonomy enhances transparency, limits risks of green washing, and equips regulators, banks, pension funds, insurers, corporates, and investors with a common reference point to identify and report green economic activities.

Zambia now joins South Africa, Rwanda, Kenya, and Ghana as one of the few African nations with a green finance taxonomy. Senegal is developing its own, which will be the first in French-speaking Africa.

Importantly, Zambia’s taxonomy is interoperable with EU, South African, and Kenyan frameworks, positioning the country competitively in regional and global markets seeking credible sustainability standards.

The government, alongside financial regulators and partners, will begin a national roll-out of the taxonomy.

The aim is to mobilize domestic and international green capital, support the issuance of green bonds and sustainability-linked loans, and accelerate private sector participation in Zambia’s green economy.

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Radiation Protection Authority Unveils New Board Chairperson

(picture by RPA)

By Daily News Reporter

The Radiation Protection Authority (RPA) has officially unveiled its newly appointed Board Chairperson, Mr. Msafiri Sinkala, in a ceremony officiated by the Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Felix Mutati.

Speaking at the event, Minister Mutati underscored the importance of transparency, accountability, and collective responsibility in the governance of the Authority. He reminded the new board of the weighty mandate before them, urging members to align their operations with national priorities and remain firmly accountable to the citizens of Zambia.

Mutati challenged the board to handle internal disagreements constructively while upholding strong risk management practices.

He urged the Authority to grow its revenue base without compromising fiscal responsibility, stressing that all resources must be properly accounted for as they belong to the citizens. He also cautioned that government will not hesitate to act if the board fails to uphold performance standards.

 RURAL & PERI URBAN ELECTRICITY CONNECTION FEES REDUCED AS GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES ASCENT PROGRAM

By Daily News Reporter

Government has announced a landmark reduction in rural and peri-urban electricity connection fees, lowering the cost of a standard on-grid household connection from K4,846 to just K300 under a new nationwide subsidy mechanism.

Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote, announced during the launch of the Accelerating Sustainable and Clean Energy Access Transformation in Zambia (ASCENT–Zambia) Program in Lusaka today. The more than 90 percent reduction is expected to make electricity significantly more affordable and accessible to rural households across all ten provinces.

Mr Chikote explained that the subsidy forms part of the US$250 million ASCENT Program supported by the World Bank, which aims to connect more than 1.6 million Zambians to electricity and clean cooking technologies over the next five years.

He disclosed that the 2026 application window for the subsidy will open on 22nd December 2025, targeting 100,000 new household connections in its first year. The Minister urged citizens to take full advantage of the opportunity and directed ZESCO and the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) to intensify nationwide awareness efforts.

REA Acting Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Alex Mbumba, reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to delivering the project efficiently and transparently. He said REA will strengthen collaboration with ZESCO to ensure smooth implementation and timely service delivery, particularly in underserved rural areas.

ZESCO Managing Director, Eng. Justin Loongo, described the ASCENT Program as a “game changer” with the potential to transform lives by expanding access to clean, reliable, and affordable electricity.

The World Bank pledged continued financial and technical support to the initiative, commending Zambia for its reform efforts and commitment to expanding modern energy services. COMESA also announced that it will provide technical assistance to the ASCENT project, further strengthening regional cooperation aimed at enhancing institutional capacity and accelerating energy access.

On the broader significance of the programme, Mr Chikote noted that Zambia’s electricity access rate currently stands at 51 percent, with rural access at only 33 percent. He said the ASCENT Program aligned with Vision 2030 and the continental Mission 300 initiative will help close this gap by promoting electrification, advancing clean cooking solutions, and improving socioeconomic conditions.

 “Our desire is that a farmer in Eastern Province can refrigerate his produce, a schoolgirl in Northern Province can study under proper lighting, and an expectant mother in Western Province can access safe and reliable health services,” he said.

The Minister commended the World Bank, COMESA, the Ministry of Finance, REA, ZESCO, and other cooperating partners for their continued support. He expressed confidence that the AS

 

 

From Treatment Success to Prevention Power: Zambia’s HIV Journey”

By Daily News Reporter

Zambia has made remarkable strides in its HIV response. Today, nearly 98% of people living with HIV know their status, and the majority are on treatment with suppressed viral loads. Clinics across the country echo with stories of resilience: mothers who once feared passing HIV to their children now celebrate healthy births, and young men proudly share their journeys of staying on antiretroviral therapy.

Zambia participated in an international World AIDS Day on 1^st December 2025 with a renewed call to action and a major step forward in HIV prevention, where the Ministry of Health Minister, Hon. Dr. Elijah J. Muchima, officially launched 𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒂𝒄𝒂𝒑𝒂𝒗𝒊𝒓, a new long-acting injectable PrEP option that offers fresh hope for young people and vulnerable populations.

Speaking during the national commemoration, held under the global theme “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,” Dr. Muchima reaffirmed the country’s unwavering commitment to ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

He noted that despite progress, the nation continues to face significant challenges, particularly among young people aged 15 to 24, who account for 38% of new infections.

However, the Minister emphasized that “AIDS is not over,” and the response must now be more resilient, innovative, and community driven.

This launch of lenacapavir marks a major milestone in expanding prevention options. “This new long-acting PrEP brings renewed hope,” Dr. Muchima said, adding that it will be rolled out alongside existing methods such as condoms, VMMC, and oral PrEP.

He also highlighted that Zambia’s commitment to integrating HIV efforts across education, social protection, and community development sectors, while calling on all stakeholders, development partners, civil society, the private sector, and young people to intensify prevention and accountability efforts.

“As a nation, we must turn disruption into an opportunity for transformation,” he said. “If we remain united, innovative, and focused, we can end AIDS as a public health threat and ensure that no Zambian is left behind.” He added.

In 2024 alone, Zambia recorded 30,000 new HIV infections, a rise from the previous year. Alarmingly, adolescents and young people aged 15–24 account for nearly 40% of these cases. For this generation, the epidemic is not history — it is a lived experience.

And According to the latest UNAIDS 2025 estimates, Zambia has reduced new HIV infections by 52% since 2010 and lowered AIDS-related deaths by 40%. The country has also surpassed the global 95-95-95 targets for adults, reaching 98-98-97.

And speaking to daily News reporter in Lusaka by the name of lukundo mwale (name withheld) of Chawama compound stated “We hear about HIV in school, but many of us don’t think it can happen to us. The Ending AIDS campaign is teaching us that prevention is power — through PrEP, condoms, and knowing our status.”

And a Healthcare worker shared her sentiment, “We need to meet young people where they are — in schools and in communities. Ending AIDS will only happen if prevention becomes part of everyday life.

Alice Mukanga (name withheld), who has worked in HIV care for over a decade, notes that while treatment success is high, prevention remains a challenge.

The Zambia Ending AIDS Campaign is designed to close these gaps. It combines testing, treatment adherence, and prevention tools like PrEP and voluntary medical male circumcision, while strengthening Prevention of Mother-To-Child Transmission (PMTCT) programs, The campaign’s message is clear: Ending AIDS is not just a government goal — it is a shared responsibility.

With the HIV Prevention Roadmap 2025–2030, Zambia is sharpening its focus on youth-centered interventions, community engagement, and sustainable financing. The vision is bold but achievable: a Zambia where new HIV infections are rare, treatment is universal, and stigma is a relic of the past.

Dr. Paul Zulu, from Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI) speaks to journalists during cross Border meeting online under the theme “HOW CLIMATE CHANGE AFFECTS GLOBAL HEALTH”. With conviction that “Prevention is our cornerstone. If we can stop new infections, we can end AIDS.” His words capture the urgency of Zambia’s fight against HIV, where young people and high-risk populations remain most vulnerable.

And meanwhile Anna Miti, seasoned journalist and Chairperson of the Health Communicators Forum (HCF) Zimbabwe, is spearheading efforts to bring HIV back into the newsroom spotlight.

He added that journalists must reclaim their role as educators and watchdogs, ensuring communities remain informed and empowered. Also, journalists can challenge stigma, promote prevention.

She further stated that the media’s role is critical in shaping attitudes and encouraging action. HIV must return to the headlines, not as a relic of the past, but as a story of resilience, innovation.  (c) Copyright Reserved

 

 

 

Minister Nkandu Commends Choppies for Youth Empowerment and Job Creation

By Daily News Reporter

Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Honourable Elvis C. Nkandu, has praised Choppies retail chain for its contribution to youth empowerment, job creation, and support for local suppliers during a field tour of the company’s store along Leopards Hill Road in Lusaka.

Speaking during the visit, Minister Nkandu emphasized government’s commitment to fostering partnerships with the private sector to create meaningful opportunities for young people. “We will continue to build an environment that encourages collaboration between government and investors, ensuring that the youth of Zambia benefit from sustainable livelihoods,” he said.

And Choppies Chief Executive Officer Schulk Piennar welcomed the Minister’s visit, noting that the company operates 40 stores nationwide and employs 2,400 workers. He expressed gratitude to government for recognizing the role of retail in supporting communities and driving economic growth.

The Minister’s tour highlighted the importance of private sector engagement in national development, particularly in providing platforms for youth participation in the economy.

Meanwhile, Choppies is currently running its Big Birthday Bonanza promotion, which continues until 4 January 2026. Customers shopping at any of the chain’s outlets stand a chance to win prizes including five brand-new Suzuki Fronx cars, five Suzuki Super Carry light trucks, 10 motorbikes, 10 ZTE smartphones, and weekly shopping vouchers worth K1,500.

Minister Nkandu concluded his tour by reaffirming government’s support for initiatives that align with Zambia’s vision of job creation, youth empowerment, and sustainable economic growth.

 

African Development Fund commits $14 million grant to scaling up climate resilience across the Sahel

By daily News reporter

The Climate Action Window grant will cover 30 municipalities and support the creation of 60 climate-smart villages across Sahelian countries, helping to strengthen community resilience to climate shocks

The Board of Directors of the African Development Fund has approved a grant of $14.64 million to support Project 2 of the Programme to Strengthen Resilience to Food and Nutrition Insecurity in the Sahel (P2-P2RS) in Abidjan on 21 November 2025.

The additional financing is provided through the Climate Action Window (http://apo-opa.co/43MyWLA), a climate-focused funding mechanism of the African Development Fund, the concessional lending window of the African Development Bank Group.

The grant aims to strengthen the adaptation and resilience capacities of communities across the Sahel as they face increasingly severe climate extremes. The project adopts a dual approach: scaling up the "climate-smart villages" model around hydro-agricultural infrastructure, and improving access to and use of climate information for decision-making.

The new funding will support the regional seed system by disseminating resilient, high-yielding improved seed varieties. Planned activities include updating the Regional Catalogue of Species and Varieties; creating a business-to-business networking portal; and strengthening seed multiplication capacities of national agricultural research systems and seed companies to ensure availability in climate-smart villages. The project will also support women’s and youth empowerment through targeted capacity-building.

In addition, the project will reinforce climate data collection and impact monitoring systems, enhancing real-time data availability from observation networks. It will establish an integrated digital platform for data collection, management, and real-time dissemination, as well as a regional system for monitoring and managing loss and damage data. This includes standardising loss and damage reporting across countries and developing a multi-scale digital platform for the centralised data management.

The Climate Action Window grant will cover 30 municipalities and support the creation of 60 climate-smart villages across Sahelian countries, helping to strengthen community resilience to climate shocks.