Zambia Urged to Shift From Cholera Response to Prevention

By Daily News Reporter 

In a country with the technical know-how, experienced health professionals, and decades of lessons learned, cholera should no longer be a recurring headline. Yet in 2026, Zambia continues to battle a disease that experts agree is entirely preventable.

It was this uncomfortable reality that took centre stage at the Public Health and WASH Evidence Forum, convened by WaterAid Zambia in Lusaka. The high-level gathering brought together senior government leaders, cooperating partners, researchers, civil society organisations, and the media—not to respond to an outbreak, but to ask a harder question: why does cholera keep coming back?

At the heart of the discussion was a clear message from WaterAid Zambia: emergency response alone is not enough.

“It is shameful that Zambia is still grappling with cholera in 2026,” said WaterAid Zambia Country Director Yankho Mataya, speaking candidly to the audience. 

"We have the knowledge and the capacity to eliminate this disease. What we lack is sustained investment in prevention.” Mataya said.

The most recent outbreak in 2023–2024 claimed more lives, many of them in densely populated and underserved communities. For WaterAid, these deaths tell a deeper story—one of persistent gaps in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services.

" Cholera is not just about bacteria,” Mataya explained. “It is about where people live, whether they have safe water to drink, dignified sanitation, and the means to practice basic hygiene. When those systems fail, cholera thrives.”

The Evidence Forum also marked the launch of two critical research reports, designed to strengthen the use of data and evidence in shaping Zambia’s cholera elimination efforts. The findings reinforced a familiar but often overlooked truth: while millions of kwacha are mobilised during outbreaks, far less is invested in long-term WASH infrastructure that could prevent outbreaks altogether.

Participants reflected on how repeated cycles of panic, emergency funding, and short-term fixes have become normalised—despite their limited impact. Civil society organisations and researchers highlighted that communities most affected by cholera are often the same ones left behind in urban planning, service delivery, and public investment.

For government officials in attendance, the forum was both a moment of reckoning and opportunity. Zambia has committed to eliminating cholera, but achieving that goal will require stronger political leadership, coordinated action across sectors, and increased domestic financing for WASH.

WaterAid Zambia emphasised that prevention must move from the margins to the centre of national development planning. Clean water systems, safe sanitation, and hygiene promotion, the organisation argued, are not optional add-ons but foundational public health investments.

As the forum concluded, one message resonated clearly: cholera deaths are not inevitable. They are the result of choices—about where resources are directed, whose communities are prioritised, and whether prevention is valued as much as response.

For WaterAid Zambia, the path forward is clear. Until the country commits fully to long-term WASH solutions, cholera will continue to expose the cost of inaction.

ZAMBEEF Drives Zambia's Economic Growth with job creation and Investment 

By Daily News Reporter 

ZAMBEEF'S Impressive Performance has driven Zambia economy. The company has so far boosted its development through its $100 Million investments in 2022 with $60Miilion being actualized which demonstrates its commitment to the country.

Wiih 8,000 direct jobs and 300,000 indirect jobs created, ZAMBEEF Limited is making a significant impact. Its focus on efficiency, cost optimization, and people development has enabled a 10% price reduction in shoes and other products, benefiting customers.

Speaking at a Manufacturing Companies media engagement in Lusaka ZAMBEEF Executive Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Mr Ezekiel Sekele stated that government's efforts to manage macroeconomic fundamentals, coupled with the private sector's growth strategies, are paying off. 

He also said that Zambia's stable exchange rate and controlled inflation create a conducive environment for continued growth.

ZAMBEEF's story showcases the power of collaboration between the private sector and government in driving economic growth and improving lives.

 As Zambia's growth story unfolds, ZAMB remains a key player to partner with.

 "Her Time Is Now” Campaign Pushes Financial Support for Women in Politics

By Daily News Reporter 

LUSAKA — As Zambia looks toward the August 2026 General Elections, a growing coalition of women leaders, civil society organizations, diplomats, and government representatives is calling for a decisive shift—from symbolic support for women in politics to direct financial investment.

That call took center stage at a high-level breakfast meeting convened by the Non-Governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC), where stakeholders launched a new Donation Button aimed at mobilizing resources to support women candidates across the country.

The event, held under the banner “Her Time Is Now,” brought together women politicians, young activists, members of the diplomatic corps, political parties, and development partners. 

Speaking during the Launch of the Donation Button in Lusaka NGOCC Board Chairperson Ms Beauty Katebe stated inclusive governance will not happen by chance—it must be deliberately financed, protected, and sustained.

She emphasized that this is not just about an election cycle,

“It is a forward-thinking and long-term movement to permanently transform Zambia’s political culture and ensure that inclusive governance becomes the norm, not the exception.” Ms Katebe said.

Further she urged participants to move beyond conversations and commit to tangible action.

“This breakfast must be remembered not just for dialogue, but for decisions, partnerships, and commitments,” Ms Katebe added 

 And Zambia National Association of Women with Disabilities National Coordinator Ms Bwalya Chilufya noted that women candidates have continue to face overwhelming financial and structural barriers to political participation.

Ms Chilufya also added that Women politicians themselves echoed this reality. 

She noted that Members of a newly formed Resource Mobilization Group for Women in Politics shared their lived experiences—from failed adoption processes to repeated election losses—highlighting how systemic challenges continue to limit women’s access to political office.

Formed as a self-driven collective, the group meets monthly at NGOCC offices to strategize on increasing women’s representation. 

Meanwhile Women in Politics Representative Ms Saboi Imboela also added that the time for women is now to challenge men in politics and participate in national development

“This is for us, We must invest in ourselves if we are serious about changing the numbers in parliament," Ms Imboela said.

She urged fellow women in all corners of this country to participate in National development by voicing out their concerns in politics.

Ms Imboela delivered a powerful reminder that women’s leadership should no longer be treated as negotiable.

“Women’s leadership is not something we should still be negotiating,” she said. “It should be something we normalize.” she said.

Drawing from her experience in politics underscored the impact of opportunity.

“When women are supported, leadership is not limited by age, geography, or background,” she said. “It is unlocked.”

Through its partnership with NGOCC, Young Women in Action, Women Politicians and other women advocates in politics is implementing leadership and civic engagement projects in districts such as Mungwi and Lunte, addressing entrenched barriers including patriarchal norms, economic exclusion, male-dominated political systems, and election-related violence.

At the heart of the meeting was the launch of the Donation Button—an innovation designed to directly address one of the most persistent obstacles to women’s political participation: money.

Financial constraints remain one of the biggest barriers preventing capable women from contesting elections, so this initiative helps level the playing field and ensures leadership is determined by competence and vision, not financial capacity.

Advocates also stressed the need for inclusive participation that extends to women with disabilities, citing Zambia’s Constitution, the National Disability Policy, and the country’s obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Speaking on behalf of the government, a representative from the Gender Division under the Office of the President Mr Henry Kaoma reaffirmed the state’s commitment to women’s political participation.

“Women’s participation in public life is not a favor—it is a constitutional right and a development imperative,”r Kaoma said.

The government highlighted measures already taken, including the revised National Gender Policy, the National Strategy on Women’s Participation in Politics and Decision-Making, and the introduction of proportional representation under Constitutional Amendment No. 13 of 2025.

“This gap is what demands our collective action today,” Kaoma added.

With 2026 fast approaching, the tone of the gathering was both hopeful and urgent.  Women speakers emphasized that the Her Time Is Now campaign complements government and civil societies efforts by translating commitments into community-level action—where women face real threats, limited resources, and political violence.

As the meeting concluded, participants were reminded that inclusive governance is not solely about women occupying seats—but about transforming the systems that decide who gets to lead.

And so they is this sentence which says "when women lead, communities thrive,”  and “And when women lead, democracy is strengthened.”

In Zambia’s political future depends on what happens now—not later.

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ZAM urges More Prices CUTS as Macroeconomic Conditions Improves

By Daily News Reporter 

The Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) has urged the manufacturing sector to support national efforts to reduce the cost of living in response to improved macroeconomic conditions in Zambia.  

ZAM has noted that the appreciation of the Kwacha, easing inflationary pressures, and reductions in fuel prices have collectively created a more stable economic environment for businesses and consumers.  

The association has indicated that over 30 manufacturing companies have already announced or are in the process of announcing price reductions to provide tangible relief to Zambian consumers.  

A ZAM survey conducted in January 2026 has revealed that 76% of manufacturers have implemented some form of price adjustment in response to the changing economic landscape.  

ZAM President Mohammed Umar has pointed out that sectors such as agro-processing, milling, paints, pharmaceuticals, and plastics have recorded price reductions of between 5% and 20%.  

Mr. Umar has explained that these price reductions are largely driven by currency appreciation, lower fuel costs, and recent stability in the supply of electricity.  

He has further observed that manufacturing prices are influenced by a complex cost structure that includes energy costs, the pricing of locally sourced inputs, domestic interest rates, and tax or excise adjustments implemented in 2025.  

Mr. Umar has stressed that sustained price moderation is best achieved through coordinated and predictable policy action, including the suspension of Statutory Instrument No. 76 and a stable tax policy environment.  

He has also emphasised that a lower cost of capital and continued improvements in the ease of doing business are critical to unlocking productive expansion and competitiveness in the manufacturing sector.  

This came to light in Lusaka during a media briefing where ZAM outlined the manufacturing sector’s response to the improving macroeconomic environment and its commitment to responsible pricing.  

The ZAM President has reaffirmed that reducing the cost of living is a shared national objective that requires collaboration between manufacturers, policymakers, and consumers through open and constructive dialogue platforms such as the Public-Private Dialogue Forum.  

Meanwhile, ZAM CEO Muntanga Lindunda observed that the improving macroeconomic environment presents a critical opportunity for manufacturers to reinforce their contribution to national development.  

Ms Lindunda noted that while many firms are already adjusting prices downwards, sustained reductions will depend on continued policy consistency and a reduction in structural cost pressures.  

She underscored that ZAM remains committed to constructive dialogue with the Government to ensure that efficiencies achieved at the industry level translate into real and measurable benefits for consumers.  

She further highlighted that platforms such as today’s engagement are essential for promoting transparency, accountability, and shared understanding between policymakers, manufacturers, and the public.  

She reiterated that ZAM will continue to provide evidence-based insights to guide decision-making and to support a competitive, inclusive, and resilient manufacturing sector.

 CCPC Cracks Down on Market Abuse, Approves Record K17.6bn Investments 

By Daily News Reporter 

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) in Zambia has taken a tough stance against market abuse, fining dominant firms for exploiting their position and approving a record K17.6 billion in investment deals in 2025.

Speaking at media engagement in Lusaka CCPC Executive Director Eunice Phiri Hamavhwa revealed that the Commission investigated 19 abuse of dominance cases, finding excessive pricing and exclusionary conduct, and fined two enterprises.

 The Commission also handled 103 mergers, creating 1,191 jobs and driving growth in sectors like manufacturing, mining, and agriculture.

Ms Hamavhwa added that some entities like ride-hailing company Yango ZAM Limited, which contravened competition law, and cement firms fined for price fixing and market sharing. 

The CCPC also resolved 1,145 consumer complaints, securing K4.86 million in refunds and remedies.

She further said that the Commission has taken some efforts aiming to foster a fair, competitive, and transparent marketplace, supporting business growth, innovation, and consumer welfare.

iThe Commission with its strong enforcement track record, the CCPC is sending a clear message: Zambia is open for business, but anti-competitive behavior won't be tolerated.

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 Kiyona Energy and ZESCO Power Zambia’s Renewable Future

By Daily News Reporter

On the grounds of the Natural Resources Development College (NRDC), rows of solar panels are beginning to take shape—symbols of Zambia’s determination to rewrite its energy story. The launch of the 20MW Solar PV project, spearheaded by Kiyona Energy Limited, a ZESCO subsidiary, marks more than just an infrastructure milestone. It is a statement of resilience, innovation, and hope after the crippling 2024 drought exposed the vulnerabilities of Zambia’s hydropower-dependent grid.

For decades, Zambia’s electricity supply has leaned heavily on hydropower. But when drought struck in 2024, reservoirs shrank, turbines slowed, and households and industries faced blackouts. The NRDC solar project is part of a deliberate pivot—an effort to diversify the energy mix and build climate resilience.

“Renewable energy diversification is no longer optional; it’s essential,” declared ZESCO Managing Director Eng. Justin Loongo at the groundbreaking ceremony.

 His words captured the urgency of a nation determined to secure reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity.

What makes the NRDC project unique is its dual purpose. Beyond feeding electrons into the national grid, it will directly power the college, with 2MW dedicated to NRDC itself. This ensures uninterrupted electricity for classrooms, labs, and dormitories, while creating a living laboratory for students.

“Hosting a grid-connected solar power plant within NRDC creates a unique ecosystem, where energy infrastructure supports education and education produces skills for the energy sector,” Loongo explained.

And speaking at the same ceremony Kiyona Energy CEO Eng. Clement Siame echoed this vision, noting that the project will generate jobs, transfer skills, and serve as a training ground for the next generation of energy professionals.

The project has also been hailed as a model of governance and collaboration. Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha SC praised the agreements underpinning the initiative as “legally robust, development-driven, and future-focused.”

Meanwhile, Zambia Taiho Service Limited Chairman Mr. Zhou Bing assured stakeholders that construction, which began in November 2025, is on track for completion by March 2026. “This timely progress demonstrates a shared commitment to efficiency, accountability, and results,” he said.

For the government, the NRDC solar project is part of a broader energy diversification strategy. 

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Zambia to Host Africa’s Landmark Energy and Infrastructure Forum in 2026

By Daily News Reporter

Zambia is set to take center stage in Africa’s energy and infrastructure transformation as it hosts the Continental Energy and Infrastructure Investment Forum (CEIIF) 2026 from February 2–5 in Lusaka.

And this CEIIF is under the theme “Collaborate, Renew, Transition”, reflecting the forum’s focus on partnerships, renewable energy expansion, and Africa’s broader energy transition.

The high-profile gathering will bring together global energy leaders, policymakers, and investors to accelerate sustainable development across the continent.

Speaking during the media engagement in Lusaka Mr. Albert Halwampa, Director General, Zambia Development Agency ststed that the forum will spotlight renewable energy expansion, universal energy access, infrastructure modernization, and innovative financing models.

He added that the conference will also aim to foster strategic partnerships, promote knowledge exchange, and position Zambia as a hub for sustainable energy investment in Africa.

 “This it will be a platform for investors and policymakers to explore opportunities and discuss on policy frameworks, technology, and regional cooperation,” Halwampa said.

Officials expect the forum to drive economic growth, social development, and long-term energy security not only for Zambia but for the broader African region.

Speaking at the same media engagement, CEIIF Convener Chiboni Evans emphasized the transformative role of the forum that CEIIF will serve as a catalyst for Africa’s energy and infrastructure renaissance. By bringing together investors, policymakers, and innovators and creating a platform that not only drives sustainable projects but also ensures that communities across the continent benefit from reliable energy and modern infrastructure.

Evans added that the forum’s outcomes are expected to strengthen regional cooperation, unlock financing for renewable energy, and accelerate Zambia’s ambition to become a leading hub for sustainable investment in Africa.

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“UNZA, ZARENA, and Lloyds Financials Launch Zambia’s Clean Energy Conference”

By Daily News Reporter

The University Of Zambia (UNZA), Lloyds Financials, and the Zambia Renewable Energy Agency (ZARENA) have officially launched the Zambia Annual Renewable Energy Conference 2026 (ZARECON 2026), a landmark platform designed to accelerate the country’s energy transition through collaboration, innovation, and sustainable investment.

This Zambia Annual Renewable Energy Conference 2026 (ZARECON 2026) will bring together academia, finance, government, and industry leaders in a united call to accelerate Zambia’s energy transition. The conference, scheduled for March 25–26, 2026 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Lusaka, is positioned as a defining moment for the nation’s energy future.

Speaking at the media launch in Lusaka, UNZA Vice Chancellor Prof. Mundia Muya emphasized the indispensable role of academia in shaping Zambia’s energy future underscored the critical role of universities in shaping Zambia’s energy landscape. He  also stressed that policy discussions, investment strategies, and technology choices must be grounded in peer‑reviewed research, data, and local realities, while remaining aligned with global standards.

He further pledged to provide academic leadership, bridging theory and practice, and advancing knowledge, innovation, and human capital development to support Zambia’s long‑term sustainable growth.

And Jumbe Ngoma, representing Lloyds Financials, also announced the institution’s honor in serving as the lead financial partner for ZARECON 2026. He emphasized that unlocking Zambia’s renewable energy potential requires bankable projects, de‑risked investment structures, and aligned policy frameworks.

Ngoma highlighted practical financing solutions such as green bonds, carbon markets, blended finance, and mini‑grid models, noting that Lloyds Financials will host masterclass sessions to equip stakeholders with tools to mobilize capital and manage risk.

Meanwhile Dr. Chilala Kakoma Bowa, Executive Director of ZARENA, declared ZARECON 2026 as a “declaration of intent” to move Zambia from policy ambition to action.

She emphasized Zambia’s abundant renewable potential—solar, wind, biomass, and small hydropower—and stressed that the challenge lies in collective action.

Dr. Bowa outlined ZARECON’s core values: integrity, collaboration, engineering excellence, innovation with impact, and inclusion.

The conference is under the theme, “Powering Zambia’s Future: Pioneering Policy, Innovation, and Partnerships for Energy Security – From Policy to Action,” which reflects its action‑oriented approach. A post‑conference tracking framework will ensure accountability by monitoring commitments, investments, and policy reforms.

Organizers stressed that ZARECON 2026 is not a “talk shop” but a platform for implementation, designed to influence policy, unlock investment, and catalyze projects. With strong support from the Ministry of Energy, ZARENA is positioning Zambia as a green energy hub for Southern Africa through initiatives like the Global Renewable Centre (GRC).

Speaking at the same media launch on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Energy, Mr Brian Mainza emphasized the government’s commitment to diversifying Zambia’s energy mix.

“Energy is a foundation upon which economies grow, industries expand, and societies prosper. The choices we make today in energy planning, infrastructure investment, and technology adoption will determine our competitiveness, resilience to climate shocks, and ability to achieve inclusive development for decades to come,” Mainza said.

The Ministry highlighted policies supporting renewable energy, including the open access regime and a single licensing portal, while stressing that government alone cannot shape the future of the energy sector. Strong partnerships with the private sector, academia, and development partners are essential to achieving energy security.

 “Energy is a foundation upon which economies grow, industries expand, and societies prosper. The choices we make today in energy planning, infrastructure investment, and technology adoption will determine our competitiveness, resilience to climate shocks, and ability to achieve inclusive development for decades to come,” Mainza said. 

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 ZAFOD Demands Accessible Elections Ahead of 2026 Polls

By Daily News Reporter

The Zambia Federation of Disability Organizations (ZAFOD) has called on the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to urgently address accessibility gaps in the country’s electoral process ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Speaking at a press briefing, ZAFOD Federal Director Justine Bbakali revealed that only 34.6% of the 254 voter registration centers are equipped with ramps, while fewer than 20% meet handrail standards, leaving many persons with disabilities unable to participate fully in democratic processes.

He further said that ZAFOD has noted that they is inadequate infrastructure, insufficient staff training, and limited accessibility measures as major barriers, warning that these shortcomings breach both Zambia’s constitutional obligations and international commitments to inclusive democracy.

He further urged ECZ to                publish a comprehensive accessibility and inclusion strategy with clear budget allocations. Upgrade or relocate inaccessible polling stations to ensure equal access.Provide voter materials in Braille, tactile guides, and sign language interpretation and Introduce mandatory disability inclusion training for electoral staff.

“Accessibility is not a privilege—it is a legal obligation and a cornerstone of electoral integrity,” Bbakali emphasized, adding that inclusive democracy can only be achieved if persons with disabilities are guaranteed equal participation.

ZAFOD’s advocacy efforts aim to ensure that the 2026 elections uphold fairness, transparency, and inclusivity, setting a precedent for accessible democratic practices in Zambia.

 

 

Leadership Movement Thanks Chawama Residents, Appoints Mutungwa to Lead Lusaka province

By Daily News Reporter

The Leadership Movement (LM) has appointed its former Chawama parliamentary by-election candidate, Mr. Nthazana Musukuma Mutungwa, as Lusaka Province Chairperson, assigning him the task of spearheading the formation of party structures and branches ahead of the August general elections.

The announcement was made during a community outreach event in Chawama, where the party distributed mealie meal and meat to residents in appreciation of the support it received in the recent by-election, where LM garnered about 100 votes.

LM President Dr. Richard Silumbe urged party leaders and members to remain united and intensify grassroots mobilisation, stressing the importance of building strong and functional structures to expand the party’s presence.

National Chairperson Mr. David Kalumba thanked Chawama residents for their support, noting that although the party recorded modest numbers in the by-election, it continues to establish structures nationwide. He added that lessons drawn from the Chawama contest would help strengthen LM’s performance ahead of the 2026 general elections.

And meanwhile Secretary General Mr. Jairos Ngoma encouraged residents not to lose faith in the party’s vision, which he said is anchored on production and self-reliance, particularly among the youth. He reiterated LM’s commitment to equipping young people with practical skills for entrepreneurship and pledged that, once in government, the party would empower citizens aspiring to own land by issuing title deeds.

In his acceptance remarks, Mr. Mutungwa thanked the party leadership for the confidence placed in him and pledged to strengthen LM’s footprint in Lusaka Province and beyond. He attributed the party’s modest performance in the by-election partly to voter apathy, noting that only about 18,000 voters turned up out of approximately 92,000 registered in Chawama.

“We have a huge chance of winning. If you look at the difference between those who voted and those who did not, the margin is very big,” Mr. Mutungwa said.

The Leadership Movement has vowed to intensify mobilisation efforts as it positions itself for the upcoming general elections, with its Lusaka Province leadership now under Mutungwa’s stewardship.

 

 TBZ TARGETS TO PRODUCE 120m kgs 

By Daily News Reporter

Tobacco Board of Zambia (TBZ) is projecting to produce 120 million kgs of tobacco in the 2025/2026 marketing season, as revealed by Executive Director, Mr. Robert Mwale.

Speaking on his strategic focus for TBZ in 2026, Mr. Mwale emphasized the need to expand tobacco production across all provinces in Zambia.

"One of our key strategies is to ensure tobacco production is decentralized, with a presence in every province. To achieve this, we will  be recruiting qualified staff and engaging new growers in untapped areas," Mwale said.

He added that this move is expected to not only increase production volumes but also contribute to the socio-economic development of rural communities.

The Executive Director noted that the majority of Zambia's tobacco is produced for export purposes, contributing significantly to the country's GDP. "Tobacco is a key contributor to Zambia's economy, and we are committed to enhancing its growth and sustainability," he said.

He highlighted the importance of adhering to international standards and best practices in tobacco production, ensuring Zambia's tobacco remains competitive in the global market.

Mr. Mwale highlighted that in the 2024/2025 marketing season, TBZ recorded an unprecedented record high of 74 million kgs of tobacco. "We are building on this momentum and aiming for even greater heights in the coming season," he added.

The Executive Director expressed confidence that with the right support and investment that is currently happening in the sector, Zambia's tobacco industry will achieve its full potential, benefiting farmers, the economy, and the country as a whole.