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Zambia
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for the 20 Oct - 26 Oct
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The government released the Terms of Reference (ToRs) for the Technical Committee on Constitutional Amendments. The committee will review provisions from the failed Bill No. 7 of 2019, focusing on elections, judicial reform, decentralization, and inclusive representation. It will conduct public consultations and expert reviews before submitting draft proposals to the Cabinet. The process aims to strengthen constitutional democracy, avoid past reform pitfalls, and ensure broad citizen participation and transparency.
SMART Zambia announced two partnerships to accelerate digital transformation and strengthen e-Government services. The collaboration with inq Zambia and Mezzanine uses the Helium Platform to host secure, locally supported digital solutions, while a MoU with VISA aims to advance secure and inclusive digital payments. These initiatives support Zambia’s goal of digital self-reliance, leveraging local skills, data, and solutions to enhance citizen-centric governance and promote financial inclusion.
The Lusaka Magistrates’ Court rejected former Treasury Secretary Fredson Yamba’s application for bail as he appeals a three-year prison term for irregularly approving a K108 million transfer tied to government property purchases in Turkey. Acting Chief Resident Magistrate Irene Wishimanga ruled that the appeal had little prospect of success. The court also ordered the forfeiture of two aircraft and three properties linked to co-accused Joseph Malanji, strengthening the state’s asset recovery efforts.
Zambia’s opposition Patriotic Front warned members of President Hakainde Hichilema’s constitutional reform committee that they could be held personally liable for public funds used in what it called an “illegal” process. Acting party leader Given Lubinda said the 25-member body was created outside legal provisions and urged the Ministry of Finance to halt funding. The government has not responded, while legal experts seek clarity on the committee’s constitutional basis.
Mozambican President Daniel Chapo is in Zambia for a working visit at the invitation of President Hakainde Hichilema. He will attend Zambia’s 61st Independence Day celebrations as guest of honour and lead bilateral talks. Chapo will also join a Mozambique–Zambia business forum and meet Mozambicans living in Zambia. The visit, ending Friday, aims to boost cooperation in politics, trade, and development, with several senior ministers accompanying him.
The Chikondi Foundation praised President Hakainde Hichilema for his efforts to revive Zambia’s mining and other sectors to ensure inclusive national development. Foundation President Bishop John Mambo highlighted progress in road infrastructure, agriculture, health, and education, crediting government policies and fiscal management. He called on citizens, the private sector, and social partners to support the President’s vision for national transformation through collective action and investment in skills, technology, and productivity.
The Bank of Zambia’s latest treasury bill auction recorded an undersubscription, attracting bids worth K1.04 billion against a K2.2 billion target. Only K928.75 million was accepted, indicating weak investor demand amid tighter monetary conditions. The 364-day tenor received the highest bids at K525.91 million. Interbank trading volumes declined, though market liquidity rose to K2.13 billion. Meanwhile, copper prices rose slightly, supported by stronger industrial output in China despite slower overall economic growth.
The International Monetary Fund’s latest outlook shows Zambia’s economy stabilizing following reforms under its Extended Credit Facility program. Inflation declined from 24% in 2021 to 12.3% in October 2025, with further drops expected in 2026. GDP growth is projected at around 6%, driven by mining, agriculture, and energy. Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane said the government will focus on converting economic stability into inclusive growth, job creation, and investment.
Zambia Railways Limited has disbursed over K38 million in terminal benefits to 104 former employees between 2023 and 2025. The payments include retirement benefits for 77 retirees, gratuities for 22 contract staff, and death benefits for five employees. Managing Director Cuthbert Malindi credited the government and Industrial Development Corporation for their support and said the company aims to prevent future delays in employee entitlements through improved management and planning systems.