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Kobold Metals will start building the Ming’omba Mine, Zambia’s largest copper project, in April 2026. The mine will produce 400,000–500,000 tonnes of high-grade copper yearly. It has already created 670 of 700 planned jobs. President Hakainde Hichilema called the project a key driver of Zambia’s mining-led recovery. Officials said the investment proves technology-driven capital can boost growth and strengthen US–Zambia cooperation.
Transparency International Zambia welcomed the government’s K1.2 billion allocation to the Electoral Commission in the 2026 budget, calling it a major boost for electoral processes. Executive Director Maurice Nyambe highlighted the rise from K460 million in 2025 to K668 million in 2021. SACCORD Executive Director Arthur Muyunda questioned whether the allocation considers proposed constitutional changes and warned that the budget may need midterm adjustments.
Dr. Lawrence Mwelwa urged Zambians to vote out unproductive Members of Parliament in the 2026 elections, arguing that the country’s future depends more on Parliament than the presidency. He said most MPs have betrayed citizens by serving party interests instead of the people. Mwelwa called for lawmakers who interrogate government decisions, reject unconstitutional bills, and protect public resources, stressing that only an independent Parliament can restore accountability and democracy.
Patriotic Front Secretary General Raphael Nakacinda told party members to put Zambians’ interests above personal gain. He urged unity in the PF and Tonse Alliance to challenge the current government. Nakacinda spoke at Lusaka Magistrate Court after attending his own case, which was adjourned because the arresting officer was absent. The charge relates to alleged comments on Aug. 21, 2024, accusing the government of importing contaminated maize and mealie meal.
Zambia, China, and Tanzania signed a $1.4 billion agreement to revitalize the TAZARA railway. The project includes an initial investment of $1.1 billion and $238 million in reinvestments to rehabilitate the track from Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi, maintain the existing line, and deliver 34 new locomotives, 16 passenger coaches, and 760 wagons. The initiative aims to promote regional integration, foster economic growth, and generate job opportunities.
President Hakainde Hichilema arrived in Glasgow, Scotland, for a three-day working visit to the United Kingdom, accompanied by First Lady Mutinta Hichilema. Invited by King Charles III, the visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties and promote cooperation between Zambia and the UK. President Hichilema emphasized the importance of the trip in advancing mutual prosperity and reaffirming Zambia’s commitment to international engagement and national development goals.
The government released K500 million to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) to pay farmers who sold maize at government depots. In Central Province, authorities released K222 million to settle 174,000 tonnes of maize, surpassing the target of 80,000 tonnes. Officials urged banks to speed up transfers so farmers can prepare for the 2026–2027 season and highlighted continued support for agriculture and national food security.
Socialist Party leader Dr. Fred M’membe challenged Zambia’s 2026 National Budget. He questioned the government’s commitment to accountability and efforts to stop financial leakages. M’membe cited reports showing that $3.5 billion is lost yearly through illicit mining and misinvoicing. He criticized weak safeguards in mining deals, tax breaks, and expired drug losses. He urged transparency in procurement, mining revenue, and debt management, warning that weak systems could undermine revenue and public services.
The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) raised fuel prices for October 2025 due to higher international oil costs and a weaker Kwacha. Diesel now sells at K26.20 per litre, petrol at K30.58, kerosene at K24.78, and Jet A-1 at K27.11. ERB Director General Elijah Sichone said the government plans to move to quarterly fuel price reviews, which will require price stabilization funds and strategic reserves to manage fluctuations effectively.
