The IMF lowered Zambia’s GDP growth forecasts to 5.2% in 2025 and 5.6% in 2026. The monetary body cites the ongoing energy crisis that is constraining production. Despite the downgrade, Zambia is still expected to outperform Africa’s average projected growth of 4.1%. The Fund noted that progress in restructuring 94% of the country’s external debt should ease fiscal pressure and support future stability, keeping Zambia’s medium-term economic prospects relatively strong.

ZESCO’s Mansa 50MW Solar Project, set to partially supply 14MW in December and reach full capacity by March–April, aims to stabilize electricity in Luapula Province and reduce load shedding. While emphasizing continued investment in hydro power, ZESCO highlighted the solar plant’s role in diversifying energy sources, creating over 300 jobs, and boosting local business. Lessons from this project will guide future solar initiatives, with transmission infrastructure prioritized to avoid delays.

Mongu District Commissioner Morgan Akabeswa has urged Western Province fishers to comply with the annual fish ban, warning that illegal fishing threatens stocks and economic gains. Zambia’s fish production rose from 178,000 tonnes in 2023 to 197,000 tonnes in 2024, strengthening its position as a major SADC exporter. Ongoing aquaculture investments, including 26 new cage farms on the Zambezi, aim to boost output, though harmful fishing practices continue to endanger the sector.

Zambia will host the 18th Africa Leather Value Chain Forum from 26–28 November 2025 at Mulungushi International Conference Centre, attracting over 100 delegates from across Africa. Discussions will focus on value addition, competitiveness, trade facilitation, SME financing, and investment promotion in the leather sector. Hosted with COMESA and ALLPI, the summit aims to boost Africa’s global leather contribution from 3% toward 50%, while showcasing over 40 entrepreneurs under the theme: “Unleashing Africa’s leather potential.”

Standard Chartered Bank Zambia celebrated five years of its Women in Tech (WiT) programme, which empowers women-led startups with funding, mentorship, and technology support. Since 2019, WiT has trained over 50 entrepreneurs, unlocked ZMW 18 million in funding, and driven growth in sectors like ICT, healthcare, and agriculture. CEO Sonny Zulu confirmed an additional three-year $500,000 investment to expand the initiative, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to inclusive entrepreneurship and economic development.

Zambia’s exit from debt default gained momentum as S&P Global Ratings upgraded its foreign-currency rating to CCC+, citing progress in debt restructuring and stronger copper output. The government, led by Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane, framed the move as validation of its reform agenda, fiscal discipline, and governance. While the upgrade boosts political credibility, risks remain ahead of the 2026 elections and climate-related pressures.