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.

(c) All Rights Reserved.

 

 

 “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.