“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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 “Respect and Dignity Key to Tackling Gender-Based Violence”

 By Daily News Reporter

 

When Judith (not her real name) walked into the Victim Support Unit in Lusaka, she carried more than the weight of her trauma. She carried fear — fear of being judged, dismissed, or retraumatized by the very system meant to protect her.

Judith’s case of sexual violence was complex, involving both physical harm and emotional distress. For years, survivors like her often faced secondary trauma during investigations, where insensitive questioning or lack of support compounded their suffering.

But this time was different. The officers she met had recently undergone survivor-centered training. They listened with compassion, ensured her privacy, and explained each step of the process. Forensic evidence was carefully preserved, and she was guided through counselling and legal support.

The difference was palpable. Judith described feeling “seen and respected” — a stark contrast to the silence and stigma survivors often endure.

This case illustrates the transformative power of survivor-centered policing. By treating survivors with dignity and compassion, investigators not only strengthen trust in the justice system but also improve the chances of successful prosecution.

With ongoing training supported by international partners, Zambia Police are working to embed professionalism and empathy into their handling of SGBV cases. For survivors like Judith, this shift represents more than justice — it represents healing, resilience, and hope.

Meanwhile at Le Elementos Hotel in Lusaka, a group of police officers sat in anticipation as a new kind of training began — one designed not just to sharpen investigative skills, but to transform the way survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) are treated in the justice system.

And Inspector General of Police Graphel Musamba, represented by Commissioner Joseph Shanampota, opened the course with a clear message: survivors must be met with respect, dignity, and compassion. His words resonated deeply, acknowledging that while policing is about evidence and enforcement, it is also about humanity.

Mr. Musamba reminded officers that SGBV remains a serious threat to the safety and rights of women, children, and vulnerable groups. He urged investigators to uphold integrity and professionalism, ensuring efficiency at every stage of the justice process. “Survivors must never feel abandoned by the system meant to protect them,” he emphasized.

The training, tailored to international standards, is designed to equip officers with survivor-centred interviewing techniques, forensic evidence preservation skills, and the ability to maintain high professional standards in both domestic and peacekeeping contexts.

British Peace Support Team Africa’s Senior Police Advisor, General Zakia Husseein, also highlighted the complexity of SGBV cases, noting that they demand approaches beyond conventional policing. She acknowledged the challenges facing Zambia’s Victim Support Unit (VSU), but expressed confidence that the initiative would significantly enhance its capacity.

Speaking at the same meeting Victim Support Unit Assistant Director, Ms. Gloria Mubita, added that the impact of the training would extend far beyond the workshop. “This is about embedding professionalism and compassion into the DNA of the Zambia Police Service,” she said.

For survivors, the justice process can often feel daunting and retraumatizing. By placing dignity and respect at the center of investigations, the Zambia Police Service is signaling a shift toward a more empathetic and effective approach.

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 “EAZ Urges Vigilance to Sustain Inflation Gains”

By Daily News Reporter

 

The Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ) has hailed the Government’s success in bringing inflation down to single digits in January 2026, describing the achievement as a “national milestone in price stability.”

In a press release issued on Wednesday, the EAZ Board of Directors said the development marks a decisive policy victory after years of elevated inflationary pressures. The Association credited the outcome to strong political will, disciplined fiscal management by the Treasury, and consistent monetary policy by the Bank of Zambia.

The Board commended 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. It also praised the Ministry of Finance and National Planning for maintaining fiscal restraint and prioritizing macroeconomic stability.

Acknowledging the role of private sector actors, civil society, cooperating partners, and the general public, the EAZ noted that collective efforts were crucial in supporting the path to stability.

While celebrating the milestone, the Association cautioned that sustaining single-digit inflation will require vigilance against supply-side shocks, fiscal slippages, and external vulnerabilities. It emphasized that long-term stability will depend on structural reforms, investment in productive capacity, and enhanced competitiveness across sectors.

EAZ has further urged the Government to prioritize sustained economic growth, strengthen productivity and value addition in key industries, and maintain a policy environment conducive to keeping inflation within the 6–8 percent range by 2030.

The Association reaffirmed its commitment to offering independent economic insights and policy advocacy, stressing that predictable and moderate inflation will enhance household welfare, attract investment, promote job creation, and build lasting resilience in Zambia’s economy.

 

VEEP OPENS 2026 ZAMBIA–CHINA SPRING FESTIVAL TEMPLE FAIR

Vice President of the Republic of Zambia, Her Honour Mutale V.K. Nalumango, has officially opened the 2026 Zambia–China Spring Festival Temple Fair, reaffirming the strong and enduring friendship between Zambia and the People’s Republic of China.

The vibrant ceremony, held at Levy Junction Mall in Lusaka, attracted government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, the business community and the general public.

 The event was aimed at strengthening people-to-people exchanges while promoting trade, investment and cultural cooperation between the two nations.

In her keynote address, she highlighted China’s continued support to Zambia’s economic transformation through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative and the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).

 She reiterated Government’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation, particularly in value addition and beneficiation of natural resources, in line with the national industrialisation and job creation agenda.

The Vice President further encouraged Chinese investors to take advantage of Zambia’s favourable investment climate, emphasizing that enhanced investment flows would foster mutual benefit, inclusive growth, and shared prosperity.

And Minister of Tourism, Honourable Rodney Sikumba, said the Spring Festival Temple Fair demonstrates the transformative power of culture in strengthening bilateral relations and promoting cultural tourism.

Honourable Sikumba noted that cultural festivals of this nature convert heritage into a shared experience that stimulates tourism growth, promotes social cohesion and creates sustainable economic opportunities.

He emphasized that cultural tourism is more than commerce, describing it as a powerful instrument for preserving national identity, inspiring pride and driving long-term development. He therefore called for sustained collaboration between Zambia and China through cultural exchange and community engagement.

Chargé d’Affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Zambia Mr. Wang Sheng, said the Spring Festival Temple Fair reflects the deep-rooted friendship and growing cooperation between Zambia and China.

The Spring Festival Temple Fair is a symbol of the strong bond between our two countries. It promotes mutual understanding, cultural appreciation and people-to-people friendship, which form the foundation of China-Zambia relations.

The festival, held under the framework of the 2026 Year of People-to-People Exchanges between China and Africa, was organised in partnership with the Chinese Embassy in Zambia. It featured colourful cultural performances, exhibitions and interactive displays showcasing the rich traditions, cuisine and artistic heritage of both Zambia and China.

BRRA Reports Major Gains in Streamlining Business Licensing

By Daily News Reporter 

 The Business Regulatory Review Agency (BRRA) has announced its significant progress in advancing regulatory reforms aimed at creating a more conducive business environment in Zambia.

Speaking to journalists in Lusaka Business Regulatory Review Agency (BRRA) Board Chairperson Mr. Dominic Kapalu highlighted key achievements recorded in 2025, including monitoring activities conducted across five provinces to assess regulatory practices and address challenges affecting the private sector.

The Agency undertook nine monitoring exercises involving chambers of commerce and industry, private businesses, sector associations and local authorities. The engagements resulted in the resolution of disputes between local authorities and businesses, particularly concerning goods in transit and the introduction or adjustment of charges without stakeholder consultation.

Mr Kapalu stated that findings from the monitoring activities have informed targeted reforms and policy adjustments designed to simplify procedures, reduce compliance costs and promote enterprise growth.

He also said that as part of the implementation of the Border Management and Trade Facilitation Act No. 8 of 2025, BRRA participated in the coordinated border management process, which led to the withdrawal of local authorities from operating at border points.

The collection of fees at entry and exit points has since been delegated to the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA). The move is intended to enhance efficiency, accountability and uniformity in revenue collection, while reducing delays and facilitating smoother trade flows.

BRRA also conducted a comprehensive review of the Regulatory Services Centres (RSCs), commonly known as one-stop shops, with support from the European Union under the Technical Assistance Project on an Inclusive Regulatory Environment Conducive to Business and Investment in Zambia.

The review assessed the effectiveness of RSCs, identified operational challenges and evaluated inter-agency coordination. Among the key recommendations was the adoption of a hybrid service delivery model integrating physical and digital platforms to improve accessibility and efficiency.

The Agency reported growth in the use of its electronic registry (e-registry), which provides up-to-date regulatory information to businesses and investors. In 2025, the platform recorded 190,869 visits, representing a 45 percent increase compared to 2024.

Mr Kapalu noted that the increase reflects growing confidence in digital regulatory platforms and underscores the importance of leveraging technology to enhance transparency and service delivery.

BRRA acknowledged the role of strategic partnerships in advancing its mandate, particularly through collaboration with the Public Private Dialogue Forum (PPDF), which facilitates engagement between government and the private sector.

The Agency also received technical and financial support from cooperating partners, including the World Bank through the Zambia Agribusiness Trade Project (ZATP II), the African Development Bank through the Lobito Corridor Trade Facilitation Project and the European Union.

Mr Kapalu further recommended several regulatory agencies for implementing reforms aimed at simplifying compliance.

The Ministry of Energy was recognised for the Energy Single Licensing System (ESLS), through which the Energy Regulation Board issued 474 licences and 100 construction permits in 2025, translating into approximately K67.2 billion in pledged investments.

The Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) for introducing the Single-Disc Road Certificate, integrating road tax, vehicle fitness and insurance into one disc.

And the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) was also recognised for reducing environmental assessment fees and shortening review timelines following the enactment of Statutory Instrument No. 3 of 2026.

He added  that BRRA has reaffirmed its commitment to finalising and implementing ongoing reforms aimed at reducing regulatory burdens, enhancing service delivery and strengthening investor confidence to support economic growth and job creation.

Nature, Carbon, and Climate Converge in Africa’s Investment Landscape”

By Daily News Reporter 

The global investment landscape is changing—and Africa is at its center. Climate change, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem degradation are no longer just environmental challenges. They are now shaping how investors assess risk, returns, and long-term economic resilience.

From water security to food systems and infrastructure, healthy ecosystems underpin the world economy. Yet the financial gap for protecting nature is enormous. 

And according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the global biodiversity finance gap could reach USD 942 billion per year by 2030, while current investment flows total just USD 200 billion annually, with private capital accounting for only USD 35 billion.

Despite this shortfall, private finance for nature is surging. In recent years, investment has grown more than tenfold—from USD 9.4 billion to over USD 100 billion—and analysts estimate it could soar to USD 1.45 trillion by 2030 if the current momentum continues. Carbon markets, nature-based solutions, and resilience infrastructure are increasingly treated as linked investment themes, creating a new frontier of asset classes.

For Africa, the stakes are particularly high. Natural capital—forests, wetlands, fisheries, and biodiversity—accounts for 30% to 50% of national wealth in many African countries, far exceeding traditional infrastructure or industrial assets. In South Africa alone, healthy ecosystems contribute over R275 billion (USD 14 billion) annually, roughly 7% of GDP.

Recent climate events provide a stark reminder of these risks. Flooding in parts of Kruger National Park and ongoing water stress in the Western Cape have underscored how ecosystem and climate shocks translate into economic losses, infrastructure damage, and fiscal pressure. These are no longer peripheral “sustainability issues”—they are core financial and investment risks.

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