“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.

 

 

Choppies Zambia Rewards Loyal Shoppers With Big Birthday Bonanza

By Daily News Reporter

Choppies Zambia has celebrated its 10th anniversary in style, rewarding 40 loyal customers with motorbikes, smartphones, and light trucks in the final draw of its Big Birthday Bonanza promotion. The event, held in Lusaka on Thursday, showcased not only the retailer’s growth but also its commitment to transparency, innovation, and community engagement.

Since entering the Zambian market in 2015, Choppies has expanded into a nationwide chain of 44 stores, a milestone that Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry Permanent Secretary Lillian S. Bwalya described as a reflection of investor confidence in Zambia’s economy. She praised the retailer for its role in providing affordable goods, creating jobs, and strengthening local supply chains.

“Choppies’ growth over the past decade demonstrates resilience and confidence in Zambia’s retail sector,” Ms. Bwalya said, noting that the company’s digital approach to promotions aligns with government efforts to drive digital transformation and consumer protection.

The Big Birthday Bonanza, launched in October last year, was conducted entirely through an electronic system designed to eliminate disputes often associated with manual receipt-based draws. All draws were displayed live on large screens, with regulatory authorities present to ensure fairness and accountability.

Master of ceremonies Mubiana Nalwendo emphasized that the digitised format reinforced public trust, while suppliers and regulators hailed the initiative as a model for future retail promotions.

Choppies Zambia Country Head Felix Chitanwali said the promotion was a way of thanking customers for their loyalty through challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic and global market disruptions.

“This promotion signifies our appreciation to customers who have believed in the Choppies story for the past 10 years,” Mr. Chitanwali said.

He revealed that Choppies plans to expand its footprint beyond 2026, opening more stores in communities, offering competitive pricing, and contributing to economic growth through job creation and corporate social responsibility.

Representing suppliers, Ongani Banda highlighted that sustaining a retail business for a decade in Zambia’s volatile economic environment reflects consistency and resilience. He commended Choppies for its commitment to affordability, which helps cushion consumers while stabilizing the retail value chain.

The anniversary event brought together government officials, suppliers, regulators, media, and customers, underscoring Choppies’ growing role in Zambia’s retail economy as it enters its second decade.

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Women In Construction Breaking Barriers in Zambia's Economic Driver 

By Daily News Reporter 

Build It International Zambia, a UK- and Zambia-registered development charity, hosted the Second Edition of the Women in Construction (WiC) Conference in Lusaka under the theme “Systems and Skills to Site: Diversity Builds Productivity.” 

The national one-day conference reaffirmed the urgent need to move beyond policy commitments and skills training towards practical, measurable outcomes for women on construction sites across Zambia.

The conference formed part of Build It International’s flagship programme, “Building a More Gender-Diverse, Skilled, and Sustainable Construction Industry (2024–2027),”  which is funded by the Government of Ireland.

 The programme seeks to challenge entrenched gender norms, dismantle systemic barriers, and expand meaningful employment opportunities for women within one of Zambia’s most economically significant sectors.

Among the participants attended the conference where policymakers, industry leaders, statutory bodies, development partners, training institutions and many other in the construction sector.

Speaking during the official opening of the conference Ministry of Technology and Science Acting Permanent Secretary Ms Naomi Tetamashimba, stated that the national conversation has shifted from aspiration to implementation.

She noted that productivity in the construction sector depends on functional systems that link training to certification, recruitment, workplace safety, accountability, retention, and career progression.

And Build It International Zambia Board Chairperson Eng. Lucie Kasanga,  highlighted construction sector as a key driver of economic growth and job creation. 

She noted that women’s low participation is not due to a lack of ability or ambition, but rather the result of systems that have historically limited access, safety, and opportunity. 

She underscored the importance of coordinated action across government, training institutions, industry, and communities to ensure skills translate into decent, dignified work.

And according to the studies shows that while most institutions acknowledge the importance of gender inclusion, many lack the systems, policies, and monitoring mechanisms to act effectively. 

Also the research also identified strong potential for change, supported by institutional champions, peer learning, and growing acceptance of women’s technical capabilities.

The conference has also reinforced that gender diversity is not only a social imperative but a sound economic strategy. Evidence from industry partners demonstrated improved productivity, quality of work, teamwork, and professionalism on sites employing women. Testimonies from female graduates illustrated how women’s participation in construction contributes directly to household stability, poverty reduction, and national development.

Meanwhile Vocational Education and Training Acting Director Ms Precious Lisulo has called on to institutionalise inclusion across the construction value chain in the construction sector.

She urged participants to measure success not only by participation rates, but by retention, productivity, safety, and site-level outcomes. 

"When inclusive systems are embedded and skills are effectively utilised, the construction sector becomes more productive, sustainable, and equitable—driving broader economic", Ms Lisulo said.

 ZAMBIA 'S ECONOMIC STABILITY HINGES ON REAL-SECTOR INVESTMENT 

By Daily News Reporter 

Zambia Institute For Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR) Interim Executive Director Mr. Zali Chikuba stated that Zambia's economy is facing challenges with exchange rate volatility, impacting food prices, fuel costs, and export competitiveness. 

Speaking during at the Launch of Role of Real Investments in Stabilising the Exchange Rate in Zambia Report in Lusaka Mr Chikuba stated that the highlights the need for diversification, citing investments in manufacturing, agriculture, and energy as key to stabilizing the economy.

He also said that they is need to reduce dependence on single commodities which can mitigate external shocks and Some initiatives have failed due to lack of backing Small scale Mining like Zambia face hurdles in a volatile economy.

Ministry of Commerce and trade industry Permanent secretary Mr Crusivia Hichikumba stated that This dependence on a single commodity goes to underscore the importance of broadening the productive space, thereby strengthening resilience against external shocks. Recent economic developments have underscored a key lesson.

Mr Hichikumba stated that sustainable exchange stability cannot be achieved through monetary and fiscal policy measures alone. It must be supported by a productive, diversified and export-oriented real economy. 

"It is for this reason that the government continues to prioritize investment in key productive sectors including mining, manufacturing, tourism," Mr Hichikumba added.

He also said that The Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry is facilitating investments in all sectors of the economy through a number of initiatives and measures. These include in the area of policy,

The Ministry has developed various policies such as the National Industrial Policy and Trade Policy which have guided our economic policy interventions in the past and they continue to do so and has paid particular attention on foreign domestic investments into Zambia.

 In terms of regulatory frameworks, the Ministry enacted the Investment, Trade and Business Development Act.

"With regard to local manufacturing, the Ministry has been implementing Statutory Instrument No. 110 of 2020, which provides for the suspension of customs duty on imported raw materials which are not available in Zambia. The objective is to boost local manufacturing, create employment opportunities and lower product costs by making inputs cheaper for manufacturers". Mr Hichikumba said 

He further stated that government has developed the statutory instrument number 45 of 2025 in the brackets preference and reservation schemes which is targeting the key areas including manufacturing . 

And ZIPAR RESEARCH TEAM led by Dr. Joseph Phiri Acting Deputy Director - Fiscal, Monetary, Financial and External Sector and Ms Margaret Mbewe Mwanza Research Fellow presented the Report on which they recommended that they is need to secure Energy supply and improve efficiency by ensuring they is reliable and diversified energy supply which is critical for production and foreign -exchange generation. 

And that government should accelerate renewable energy investments via public - private Partnerships and power purchase agreements, reduce resilience hydropower, and encourage domestic biofuel production.

 They also urged the  Government to enhance trade integration and export diversification through a proactive trade policy that strengthen exports competiveness and diversifies foreign exchange sources.