NCC Records 6.1% Growth in Contractor Registrations, Unveils 2026 Expansion Plan

By Daily News Reporter

Across Zambia’s towns and rural districts, the sound of hammers, graders and concrete mixers has become more than just background noise — it is the rhythm of a growing construction sector finding its confidence.

At the centre of this momentum is the National Council for Construction (NCC), which this week announced a 6.1 percent increase in contractor registrations in 2025, issuing 14,253 certificates, with an overwhelming 97 percent awarded to Zambian-owned contractors.

For a sector long dominated by large, established firms, the numbers tell a deeper story: local contractors are stepping forward, claiming space, and shaping Zambia’s infrastructure landscape.

Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka, NCC Board Chairperson Paul L. K. Makasa described the growth as a reflection of deliberate policy shifts and expanded access to public projects.

Much of the increase, he noted, has been driven by small and medium-scale contractors participating in projects funded under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and routine maintenance works.

In districts where infrastructure development was once sporadic, local contractors are now building classroom blocks, grading feeder roads and rehabilitating clinics. For many of them, CDF projects have served as both a training ground and a launchpad.

Behind each certificate issued lies a small enterprise — often family-run — employing local artisans, bricklayers, electricians and machine operators. The ripple effects extend beyond construction sites, stimulating local economies and building community pride.

In 2025, the NCC intensified monitoring and enforcement activities, inspecting 613 projects nationwide and charging 34 contractors for regulatory infringements. The message was clear: expansion must go hand in hand with compliance.

Professor Makasa emphasized that regulation is not about punishment, but about safeguarding public resources and ensuring infrastructure durability.

“Quality construction ensures value for money and protects communities,” he stressed, noting that poor workmanship not only wastes public funds but endangers lives.

The council’s approach reflects a balancing act — encouraging new entrants into the industry while upholding professional standards.

Beyond registration and enforcement, the NCC has placed strong emphasis on capacity building. Through the National Construction School, over 600 participants were trained in construction-related skills in 2025.

In a sector where technical competence directly affects structural integrity, skills development remains critical. From site supervision to project management and artisan training, the council is working to professionalize the industry.

Makasa underscored that infrastructure sustainability begins with skilled hands and informed decision-making.

As Zambia accelerates infrastructure development — from roads to public facilities — the need for competent local contractors has never been greater.

The NCC plans to expand its geographical footprint by establishing new offices in Solwezi, Mongu and Mansa, bringing services closer to contractors in North-Western, Western and Luapula provinces. The move is expected to ease access to registration and compliance services, particularly for rural contractors.

Additionally, the council will resume its enhanced online registration system, designed to improve transparency, efficiency and accountability. The digital platform is expected to reduce paperwork, shorten processing times and limit opportunities for irregularities.

Industry stakeholders are also preparing for the BuildZambia Conference and Expo, scheduled for September 21–23, 2026. The event will convene contractors, policymakers, financiers and innovators to discuss infrastructure delivery, sustainability and emerging technologies in construction.

As Zambia continues to invest in roads, schools, hospitals and public infrastructure, the construction sector remains a cornerstone of national development.

The NCC’s latest figures suggest that the industry is not only growing, but localizing — empowering Zambian contractors to take a leading role in shaping the country’s built environment.

For Professor Makasa and the council, the vision is clear: a competitive, professional and quality-driven construction sector aligned with Zambia’s broader development goals.

In the hum of machinery and the steady rise of new structures, Zambia’s future is being built — one contractor, one project, one community at a time.

 Agricultural Reform Agenda Targets Transparency, Financing, and Growth

By Daily News Reporter

Zambia’s agriculture sector could soon undergo major reforms as Parliament considers three key bills designed to strengthen market systems, improve farmer financing, and promote private sector-led growth.

The proposed Agricultural Marketing Bill, Food Reserve Bill, and Agricultural Credit and Warehouse Receipts Bill form part of the government’s 2025/2026 agricultural reform agenda. Together, they aim to modernize markets, ensure timely payments to farmers, and expand access to financing through warehouse receipt systems.

At a stakeholder engagement in Lusaka, Dr. Brian Mulenga, Executive Director of the Indaba Agricultural Policy Research Institute (IAPRI), explained that the Agricultural Marketing Bill seeks to establish clear procedures for export decisions and market interventions.

“The bill is designed to enhance transparency and improve consultations between government authorities, farmers, and market actors when making decisions that affect prices and trade,” Dr. Mulenga said.

He added that the Agricultural Credit and Warehouse Receipts Bill would allow crops stored in certified warehouses to serve as collateral for loans, significantly boosting farmers’ access to financing.

Prof. Frank Kayula, President of the National Union for Small Scale Farmers in Zambia, emphasized that the reforms offer tangible benefits. He noted that the registration requirement under the Agricultural Marketing Bill would protect farmers from unfair practices, while the Food Reserve Bill could resolve longstanding issues of delayed payments.

“If these bills are enacted, farmers will have more certainty in the market and better opportunities to grow their businesses,” Prof. Kayula said, describing the reforms as “non-controversial but critical.”

Supporting this view, Yotam Mkandawire, Executive Director of the Grain Traders Association of Zambia, said the reforms would provide clear rules for marketing, storage, and credit access.

“Enacting these bills is necessary to stabilize trade and build trust among farmers, traders, and government institutions,” Mkandawire said.

IAPRI has played a pivotal role in supporting the reforms by providing technical expertise and evidence-based analysis. The institute has facilitated high-level discussions with Members of Parliament from committees on Agriculture, Lands, Trade, Labor, Budget, and National Economy, focusing on the bills’ long-term impacts on productivity, regional trade, and market stability.

Analysts say the three bills could foster a more predictable and transparent agricultural market, support farmer empowerment, and stimulate investment—key elements for Zambia’s goal of achieving sustainable agricultural growth and food security.

“These reforms, reinforced by broader programs like the Comprehensive Agriculture Support Program (CASP), represent a decisive pivot toward private sector-led growth and a resilient, market-oriented agriculture economy,” Dr. Mulenga said.

 TAUZ and ZIM Renew Partnership to Strengthen Professional Development in Zambia

By Daily News Reporter

Texila American University Zambia (TAUZ) and the Zambia Institute of Marketing (ZIM) have renewed their longstanding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reaffirming a shared commitment to strengthening human capital and advancing professional development for Zambia’s growing economy.

The renewed MoU extends tuition fee discounts to ZIM members and their immediate family members enrolling in TAUZ programmes. It also expands collaboration in Continuous Professional Development (CPD), short courses, executive training, and specialised workshops aimed at equipping marketing professionals with practical competencies and strategic leadership skills.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, TAUZ Deputy Vice Chancellor, Dr. Balamurugan Easwaran, underscored the university’s role in shaping industry-ready graduates.

He emphasized that the partnership bridges the gap between classroom learning and industry application, enabling co-created programmes aligned with Zambia’s economic aspirations.

And ZIM Registrar and CEO, Dr. Danny Chanda, described the renewal as a strategic opportunity for members to enhance their competitiveness in a rapidly evolving business environment.

He encouraged members to take advantage of tuition benefits and professional development opportunities, stressing that investing in quality education is key to long-term career growth and credibility.

TAUZ Registrar, Ms. Suguna Subbraji, expressed gratitude to ZIM for its continued partnership, describing the Institute as an “all-weather friend” whose collaboration has consistently advanced professional excellence.

Meanwhile, Dr. Angelo Salasini from the School of Business outlined areas of cooperation under the MoU, including postgraduate programmes, executive education, research collaboration, joint workshops, and professional networking initiatives.

The ceremony, witnessed by members of the ZIM Council including the Council Secretary, marked another milestone in the enduring relationship between the two institutions.

NGOCC Applauds President Hichilema's Fight against Child Marriage 

By Daily News Reporter 

As Zambia continues to confront the challenges of child marriage, the Non-governmental Gender Organisations' Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has hailed President Hakainde Hichilema for his firm stance against the practice, while calling on the government to ramp up resources to eliminate it.

The praise came following the President’s remarks at the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where he urged African nations to take decisive action against child marriage, highlighting its long-term social, health, and economic consequences.

In a statement issued on February 16, 2026, NGOCC Board Chairperson Beauty Katebe said, “The President's consistent leadership on this issue remains a crucial catalyst for ending this practice across the continent. Child marriage is a significant human rights concern, with far-reaching human, social, health, and economic costs that Zambia cannot afford to ignore.”

Zambia has made measurable progress in reducing the prevalence of child marriage, from 29% in 2018 to 23.9% in 2024, but NGOCC stresses that more work is needed, particularly in rural areas where the practice remains prevalent.

The organisation is urging the government to ensure that the 2027 national budget prioritizes interventions that tackle child marriage, by supporting social and behavioral change programmes to educate communities on the dangers of early marriage,

Katebe noted that addressing child marriage requires a combination of strong leadership, community engagement, and adequate funding. “We need both political will and resources to create lasting change,” she said.

Advocates say ending child marriage is not only a moral and human rights imperative but also a critical step in boosting girls’ education, health, and economic participation—ultimately contributing to Zambia’s broader development goals.

With NGOCC’s call to action and the President’s vocal leadership on the issue, stakeholders hope Zambia can accelerate its efforts to eradicate child marriage and set an example for the continent.

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 ZIM Advertising Board To Clamp Down on Misleading and Improper AD Placements 

By Daily News Reporter 

As Zambia is entering a new era of professionalism and accountability in its advertising and marketing sector with the launch of the Advertising Standards Board (ASB), a move aimed at ensuring ethical compliance, responsible marketing, and fair business practices across the country.

The initiative, championed by the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry in collaboration with the Zambia Institute of Marketing (ZIM) and the Public Private Dialogue Forum, establishes a specialist board tasked with being the ultimate custodian of truth, fairness, and integrity in advertising. The Board will work alongside the newly formed Advertising Committee to regulate content placement, enforce compliance with national standards, and provide guidance to advertisers.

Speaking at the launch of Zambia’s Advertising Standards (ZAS), Zambia Institute of Marketing (ZIM) President Mr. Mwewa Besa said the framework addresses growing concerns over inappropriate advertising placements and unethical practices in the sector.

“One key issue is the placement of alcohol advertisements in environments frequented by children, such as sports centers,” Mr. Besa noted.

 “Advertising must be done responsibly and in the right place. Certain products cannot be promoted where they can influence school children. These are the kinds of issues the Board will correct.” Mr. Besa Noted.

The ASB will actively engage media owners, advertisers, and agencies to ensure advertisements adhere to ethical guidelines, are appropriately placed, and uphold professionalism.

Starting March 1, the new standards will take effect, marking what stakeholders describe as a pivotal moment in Zambia’s advertising industry. Under the framework, all advertising and marketing entities operating in the country must meet the minimum standards established under the Advertising Standards Law, while agencies are required to comply with the Zambian Risk of Marketing Act No. 2 of 2022, including registration and licensing.

“In an environment where there are no standards, anything works. We must define thresholds and ensure everyone practicing in this country adheres to them,” Mr. Besa emphasized.

The standards document is designed to remain flexible, allowing the Board to adapt to Zambia’s fast-evolving advertising landscape. Stakeholders were encouraged to provide feedback and engage with the Board to keep the framework relevant and practical.

Meanwhile speaking on behalf of Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry Permanent Secretary,  Ms. Magritte M. Chikuba Director Domestic and Trade reiterated its support for the initiative, calling it a milestone in promoting transparency, consumer confidence, and ethical compliance in the sector.

“Advertising plays a strategic role in facilitating trade, promoting competition, and connecting businesses to consumers,” said Ms Chikuba.

Ms. Chikuba added that it is a great value-add to business, products, and services. For its influence, standards must be set correctly to ensure fairness and healthy competition.

She added that markets can only function effectively when communication between businesses and consumers occurs within a framework that promotes fairness, accountability, and professionalism.

The launch reflects Zambia’s commitment to positioning itself as a regional leader in professional advertising practices. Stakeholders noted that effective regulation will only succeed through collaboration between regulators, advertisers, and media owners.

“Our intention is to promote private sector growth and unity by ensuring advertising is regulated effectively. This can only be achieved if we work together as partners,” Ms Chikuba added.

Industry leaders described the launch as a significant step toward safeguarding consumers, enhancing competition, and strengthening Zambia’s marketing and advertising ecosystem. With clear standards now in place, Zambia’s advertising industry stands poised for a more transparent, accountable, and professional future.

Smart Zambia and BRRA Partner to Cut Bureaucracy in Licensing

By Daily News Reporter 

For years, starting and running a business in Zambia has often meant navigating a maze of paperwork, long queues and multiple offices — each demanding a different licence, fee or renewal date.

Now, a new partnership between the Smart Zambia Institute and the Business Regulatory Review Agency (BRRA) promises to change that narrative.

The two institutions have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to digitise and streamline Zambia’s business licensing system, in what officials describe as a decisive step toward reducing bureaucracy, lowering compliance costs and improving service delivery.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Smart Zambia National Coordinator Percy Chinyama described the MoU as a formalisation of a relationship that has long existed behind the scenes.

“This partnership may appear new to some, but in reality, the collaboration between Smart Zambia and BRRA has existed in the background. Today, we are simply formalising what has already been a working relationship,” Mr Chinyama said.

At the heart of the agreement is the One Government approach — an effort to integrate services across public institutions so citizens and businesses can interact with government through seamless digital platforms rather than fragmented systems.

For entrepreneurs, the implications are significant. Instead of physically moving from one office to another to submit documents, make payments or track approvals, businesses will increasingly be able to access these services online.

“The cost of doing business is not only monetary — convenience is also a cost,” Mr Chinyama noted, highlighting how multiple licences with different renewal timelines can disrupt operations and create compliance headaches.

BRRA Executive Director Sharon Shichilongo emphasised that the initiative is grounded in the Business Regulatory Act No. 3 of 2014, as amended by Act No. 14 of 2018. The law mandates BRRA to ensure an efficient, cost-effective and accessible licensing system.

Over the years, BRRA has been reviewing regulatory frameworks to eliminate duplication, harmonise laws and simplify procedures that raise the cost of doing business.

“The private sector thrives in an environment that is predictable, accessible and efficient. This collaboration with Smart Zambia will enable us to minimise regulatory processes, reduce compliance costs and enhance inter-agency collaboration,” Ms Shichilongo said.

She acknowledged that duplication of licensing processes still exists across institutions, making integration of e-government systems both urgent and necessary.

For small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which often operate with limited resources, the reforms could significantly reduce time and travel expenses associated with compliance.

Digital inspections, for instance, are expected to improve efficiency while maintaining regulatory oversight. Integrated systems could also help harmonise licence renewal dates and reduce overlapping requirements.

Zambia’s economic transformation agenda places the private sector at its centre. However, complex regulatory processes have historically been cited as barriers to growth and investment.

By merging regulatory reform with digital innovation, the partnership signals government’s intention to modernise service delivery while maintaining regulatory stability.

Beyond cost savings, increased transparency may also improve trust between businesses and regulators. With online tracking and electronic records, the risk of lost paperwork, delayed approvals or inconsistent procedures could be significantly reduced.

Ms Shichilongo assured stakeholders that the MoU is not merely symbolic.

“Beyond signing the MoU, both institutions are committed to its full implementation,” she said, describing the agreement as a timely intervention to modernise Zambia’s business environment.

As Zambia accelerates its digital transformation journey, the collaboration between Smart Zambia and BRRA may well mark a turning point — one where licensing shifts from long queues and paperwork to streamlined online platforms.

 Ministry of Education and Splash International Joins Forces to Improve schools Hygiene for 700, 000 Children 

By Daily News Reporter 

In many schools across Lusaka, Ndola and Kitwe, the simple act of turning on a tap for clean water has not always been guaranteed. For thousands of pupils, inadequate sanitation facilities and limited access to safe drinking water have long posed silent barriers to health, dignity and effective learning.

The Zambian Government, through the Ministry of Education, has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Splash International — a partnership that promises to reshape water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services in public schools and benefit more than 700,000 pupils.

The agreement was signed by Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Dr. Kelvin Mambwe stated that this signals a strong commitment to ensuring that children learn in safe, healthy and dignified environments.

For many education stakeholders, access to clean water and proper sanitation is not simply about infrastructure. It is about creating the conditions necessary for children to thrive.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Mambwe emphasized that schools must be places where learners feel secure and supported.

“Safe drinking water, adequate sanitation and proper hygiene facilities in schools are fundamental to health, dignity and effective learning,” he said.

In a country where the Free Education Policy has significantly increased enrolment, the demand for improved school infrastructure has grown. Classrooms are fuller, and the need for reliable WASH facilities has become more urgent.

Without proper sanitation, absenteeism rises — particularly among girls — and preventable illnesses can spread quickly in crowded school settings. The partnership with Splash International directly addresses these challenges.

Beyond providing safe drinking water and improved sanitation facilities, the initiative is designed with sustainability at its core.

Splash International will work closely with government institutions to develop climate-resilient infrastructure by ensuring that schools remain equipped even amid changing weather patterns and water supply challenges.

The partnership also focuses on building national and sub-national capacity, empowering local authorities and school administrators to manage and maintain systems effectively. 

Crucially, the agreement emphasizes ensuring that improvements are not temporary interventions but long-term solutions embedded within Zambia’s national development framework.

Mr. Eric Stowe praised the Government’s leadership and policy direction and also expressed delight at the collaboration, commending Zambia’s strong agenda on free education and its commitment to creating supportive learning environments for all children.

“This partnership reflects a shared vision,” Mr. Stowe noted, highlighting the importance of sustainable systems that serve children not just today, but for generations to come.

The impact of the initiative is expected to extend beyond school grounds. Improved hygiene facilities contribute to better health outcomes, reduced absenteeism, and improved academic performance.

When children have access to clean water, they are less vulnerable to waterborne diseases. When sanitation facilities are safe and dignified, particularly for adolescent girls, retention and participation improve significantly.

For the pupils in Lusaka, Ndola and Kitwe, this MoU represents more than a formal agreement between institutions. It represents the promise of cleaner classrooms, healthier days, and uninterrupted learning.

As Zambia continues to strengthen its education sector under its national development agenda, partnerships such as this demonstrate how collaboration between government and development partners can deliver tangible results.

And in schools where a simple glass of clean water can make the difference between illness and opportunity, that transformation begins with turning on the tap.

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 DAPP Zambia and FNB Foundation Launch Farmers Clubs in Mpika 

By Daily News Reporter 

Development Aid from People to People (DAPP) Zambia, in partnership with First National Bank (FNB), has officially launched the Farmers Club Initiative in Mpika District, marking a significant step toward strengthening small-scale agriculture and rural livelihoods in the area.

The launch signaled a new chapter of collaboration aimed at empowering rural communities through organized farming, financial inclusion, and improved market access.

This initiative seeks to organize small-scale farmers into structured clubs where they can access agricultural training, financial literacy programs, and collective marketing opportunities.

Through this partnership, DAPP will focus on community mobilization, training, and technical support, while FNB will provide financial services and support tailored to rural farmers.

Speaking during the launch, Development Aid from People to People (DAPP) Zambia Ms Elise Soerensen emphasized the importance of collective action in transforming agriculture.

Ms Soerensen stated that through the Clubs the farmers will learn smart agriculture practices, improve post harvest management and become financial literate.

She urged the farmers to embrace irrigated horticulture, small livestock farming and agro processing.

Ms Soerensen also added that this project will support 1000 farmer households to improve livelihood through improved farming practices.

“Farmers are stronger when they work together. Through these clubs, we are not just improving farming methods — we are building leadership, resilience, and economic independence within communities,” the representative said.

And First National Bank Zambia Foundation (FNBZF) Trustee Mr Happy Nyasulu donated a K 690, 000. 00 and highlighted its commitment to financial inclusion and supporting Zambia’s agricultural sector, particularly small-scale farmers who often struggle to access formal banking services.

“We believe agriculture is the backbone of Zambia’s economy. By bringing financial services closer to farmers in Mpika, we are helping them save securely, access credit responsibly, and grow their agribusinesses,” Mr Nyasulu said.

He stated under the Farmers Club model, members will receive training in climate-smart agriculture, conservation farming, crop diversification, and post-harvest management. Demonstration plots will be established to provide hands-on learning in improved crop production techniques.

Mr Nyasulu also said that the clubs will also introduce savings groups and financial literacy sessions to encourage a culture of saving and responsible borrowing, enabling farmers to invest in quality inputs and expand production.

A key component of the initiative is collective marketing. By pooling their produce, farmers will be better positioned to negotiate favorable prices and connect with larger buyers. This approach is expected to increase household incomes and reduce exploitation by middlemen.

The project also places emphasis on inclusive participation, encouraging women and young people to take active roles in the clubs.

This partnership believe this approach will promote gender equity and inspire youth to view agriculture as a viable business opportunity.

The launch of the Farmers Club Initiative will reflects a growing recognition of the need for integrated solutions that combine agricultural training with financial services. By bridging the gap between farming and finance, DAPP and FNB aim to create sustainable rural enterprises that can withstand economic and climate challenges.

For the farmers of Mpika, the initiative represents hope — hope for improved yields, stronger incomes, and a more secure future built on cooperation and innovation.

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 “ZAMRA Strengthens Surveillance to Tackle Illegal Medicines”

 By Daily News Reporter

The Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting public health through a strengthened post-marketing surveillance system.

Speaking to Daily News in Lusaka, Mr Ludovic Katontoka Mwape, Senior Public Relations Officer at Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA), stated that the system employs routine inspections, market sampling, and intelligence-led investigations to detect and remove illegal and substandard medicines from circulation.

Mwape emphasized that while challenges persist in informal markets, ZAMRA’s surveillance teams have successfully seized numerous illegal products, safeguarding consumers from potential harm.

ZAMRA acknowledged that rural and underserved communities remain more vulnerable to unregistered medicines due to limited access to licensed pharmacies, weaker regulatory oversight, and lower public awareness. To address this, the authority has intensified outreach and inspection efforts, alongside community education programs designed to raise awareness about the dangers of unregistered medicines.

Concerns about potential shortages of essential drugs during crackdowns were addressed by Mwape, who explained that ZAMRA conducts thorough market assessments before enforcement actions. The authority works closely with legitimate manufacturers and distributors to ensure uninterrupted supply of registered medicines, and facilitates expedited registration and importation of critical drugs when necessary.

Zambia also maintains strong ties with neighboring countries through platforms such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and bilateral agreements. These partnerships enable intelligence sharing, joint operations, and harmonization of regulatory standards to curb cross-border trafficking of unregistered medicines.

Mr. Mwape concluded that ZAMRA’s collaborative and strategic approach is vital in tackling the transnational nature of illegal medicine trade while ensuring citizens have access to safe, effective, and legitimate medicines.

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 “Rate Cut Signals Confidence in Zambia’s Economy” BOZ

 By Daily News Reporter

For homeowners, investors, and businesses alike, the Bank of Zambia’s latest move is more than just a technical adjustment — it’s a signal of confidence in the country’s economic trajectory.

The Bank of Zambia held its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) in Lusaka, the central bank reduced the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) by 75 basis points, bringing it down to 13.5 percent from 14.25 percent. 

Speaking during the MPC update Bank of Zambia Governor Dr. Denny Kalyalya explained that the decision reflects a commitment to maintaining an appropriate monetary stance while supporting growth.

Inflation has been steadily easing, falling from 12.3 percent in September 2025 to 11.2 percent in December, and further to 9.4 percent in January 2026. Dr. Kalyalya attributed this decline to a bumper maize harvest and the appreciation of the Kwacha against major currencies.

With these gains, the central bank now expects inflation to reach its 6–8 percent target band faster than previously forecast, with the lower bound likely by the second quarter of 2027. Average inflation is projected at 6.9 percent in 2026, down from the earlier forecast of 7.6 percent, and 6.3 percent in 2027.

Dr. Kalyalya further pointed to favourable weather conditions, higher copper prices, and continued macroeconomic stability as key factors underpinning the positive outlook.

“We remain guided by inflation outcomes, forecasts, and identified risks, including those associated with financial stability,” he said.

For households, the rate cut could translate into lower borrowing costs, easing pressure on mortgages and loans. For businesses, it signals a more accommodative environment aimed at stimulating investment and expansion. And for the broader economy, it reflects growing confidence that Zambia is on a path toward sustainable stability.

The MPC’s decision underscores a delicate balancing act: supporting growth while keeping inflation in check. For now, the central bank’s message is clear — Zambia’s economy is turning a corner, and policy is adjusting to match that optimism.

Meanwhile the EAZ has recommended the central bank for its disciplined approach in anchoring inflation expectations through transparent communication and data-driven policy actions, which it said have strengthened confidence in financial markets.

 “Merck Foundation and Zambia’s First Lady Mark Milestone in Medical Training”

By Daily News Reporter

In a country where access to specialized medical care has long been a challenge, a new wave of hope is emerging. The Merck Foundation, in partnership with Zambia’s First Lady, H.E. Mutinta Hichilema, has awarded 126 scholarships to Zambian doctors, equipping them with advanced training in 39 critical and underserved specialties.

The initiative is part of the “More Than a Mother” campaign, which the First Lady champions as Ambassador. Beyond addressing infertility stigma, the program is reshaping Zambia’s healthcare landscape by building capacity in areas such as diabetes, endocrinology, oncology, fertility, embryology, cardiology, psychiatry, dermatology, and emergency medicine.

Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation, described the partnership as “a milestone of success and impact,” noting that the scholarships are not just numbers but represent lives that will be saved and communities that will be strengthened.

So far Zambia is Tackling Zambia’s Health Gaps in Fertility & Reproductive Health through these 46 doctors who are being trained in fertility, embryology, and sexual & reproductive medicine, helping couples access care that was once out of reach. 51 doctors are specializing in diabetes, cardiology, endocrinology, and obesity management. Upon completion, they will establish clinics to prevent and manage hypertension and diabetes in their communities. 10 scholarships in oncology are laying the foundation for improved cancer treatment capacity in Zambia. 19 doctors are pursuing training in gastroenterology, respiratory medicine, psychiatry, dermatology, pain management, and infectious diseases.

For many Zambians, the lack of specialists has meant traveling abroad or facing delayed treatment. This program changes that trajectory. By embedding expertise within local hospitals and health centers, the initiative ensures that care is accessible, affordable, and community-based.

The First Lady emphasized that the scholarships are not only about professional development but about transforming lives. “Every doctor trained is a step toward a healthier Zambia,” she said.

As these doctors return to their communities, they will carry more than certificates — they will carry the tools to fight diseases, reduce preventable deaths, and restore hope. The partnership between Merck Foundation and Zambia’s First Lady is proving that with vision, collaboration, and investment in people, healthcare systems can be rebuilt from within.

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