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.

(c) All Rights Reserved.

 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. 

(c) All Rights Reserved,

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.

(c) All Rights Reserved. 

“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. 

(c) All Rights Reserved. 

 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.