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The Bank of Zambia has noted that weakening economic growth, load shedding and tightening liquidity in Zambia are threatening financial stability in the market.
And the Central Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee has maintained the policy rate, a key determinant in lending rates, at 10.25 percent.
BoZ Governor Denny Kalyalya says the committee took into account projected inflation remaining above the upper bound of the 6.8 percent target range, tightened liquidity and reduced production owing to electricity challenges.
Dr. Kalyalya noted that increased food prices owing to droughts in the last farming season have also had a negative toll on inflation.
He says the above factors required the upward adjustment for the policy rate but the Central Bank had to hold it pending some measures by the Ministry of Finance.
Speaking during the MPC quarterly briefing in Lusaka today Dr. Kalyalya noted that global growth has equally weakened with demand for copper by China having reduced owing to decline in investment in emerging markets and reduction in global trade due to ongoing trade tensions between the USA and China among others.
And Bank of Zambia Deputy Governor Operations Francis Chipimo said access to finance has remained a challenge for private sector growth and investment.
Dr. Chipimo however said there are a lot of developmental issues being undertaken aimed at enabling the financial sector mobilize savings and lend money to investors with ideas.
HH and President Lungu meet at late Munkombwe’s burial in Choma
By Chimwemwe Mwanza
Vicious, vindictive and vengeful aptly describes the Zambian political arena. Former Presidents, Kenneth Kaunda, Rupiah Banda and the late Frederick Chiluba all have scars to prove this. In the 80’s, Kaunda locked up Chiluba on flimsy charges that failed to hold in a court of law. After he became Head of State, Chiluba retaliated by sending Kaunda to Mukobeko maximum prison.
The irony for Chiluba is that his handpicked successor, Levy Mwanawasa motivated Parliament to waive off the latter’s immunity thereby exposing Chiluba to several graft charges formulated by the now defunct Task Force on Corruption. With his legacy tainted by a skewed narrative, only death saved Chiluba from possible jail time. To erase his predecessor’s legacy and ensure his humiliation, the late Sata’s PF re-created this trend by consigning Rupiah to a life of court appearances.
Off significance to this conversation, UPND leader, Hakainde Hichilema (HH) served time in Lilayi prison on a laughable treason charge – this at the hands of the current PF regime. For a fact, HH has never hidden his disdain for President Edgar Lungu and his stint in a tiny Lilayi prison cell has probably served to reinforce the UPND leader’s contempt for the President.
Just why such vindictiveness and blatant abuse of power seems to gratify incumbents is hard to understand. In the absence of reason, one might well speculate that this show of brutality is all about a naked flexing of political muscle – a bit more like, ‘can I show you who is the boss’. Whatever the reason, the difficulty is that this trend erodes the very democratic tenets and political maturity that Zambia is renowned for in the rest of Africa and the world over.
Which makes 2021 an interesting contest. Other than bread and butter issues, the fore mentioned factors will weigh heavily on the minds of both President Lungu and HH heading closer to the polls.
Who is likely to win?
The tiny but seismic shift in fundamentals on the ground seem to suggest that this will be a closely fought contest. Besides, recent electoral predictions across the globe – even by the most experienced pundits have gone against the grain making it even more difficult to provide an accurate outcome.
For example, in 2012, several analysts predicted an outright victory for Rupiah’s MMD only for the PF to spring a surprise. Suffice to acknowledge that, while characteristics of the Zambian electoral landscape may differ in comparison to mature democracies, there are similarities to draw from – especially in elections where the voter’s desire for change outweighs any other considerations.
Unaware of a groundswell desire for change, an over-confident former British Premier, David Cameroon called a snap referendum to determine Britain’s future in the European Union (EU). He was stunned at the outcome. Against odds, the British electorate voted for Brexit thus paving the way for what has now become Britain’s messy divorce from the EU trade block.
Humiliated by a razor thin loss to Brexit supporters, Cameroon was forced to call his time as leader of the conservative party. In yet one of the biggest election upsets of the 21st century, Donald Trump steam-rolled establishment candidate, Hillary Clinton to become the 45th President of the US. Therefore, the notion that either the PF or UPND might have an edge over the other heading towards 2021 is fallacious. Truth is, this is an election that could swing either way.
Why ECL will be desperate to win
Despite the PF’s public show of confidence, their determined focus on HH and constant whip-lashing of his perceived tribal inclinations, best illustrates their genuine fears and by extention their desperation. Rightly so, they can’t afford to be complacent. 2021 will be a referendum on their ten years in power. Be rest assured that this is one election where the PF’s well – oiled propaganda machinery will likely throw both the sink and kitchen at the UPND bearing in mind what is at stake. In fact, the proposed amendment to the constitution is intended to disadvantage the opposition ahead of the polls.
What troubles the mind is that the current constitution which the PF is attempting to discard was signed into law by the sitting President amid a jam-packed Independence stadium. Three years later, it’s tempting to ask. What has changed to warrant an amendment to this sacred document? By now, PF knows too well that the much-punted humility of their candidate might be a hard-sale more so to an electorate that appears too desperate for change. They can’t afford lethargic arguments such as they being the only party with a manifesto. Need they be reminded that having a manifesto is one thing and delivering on its content is another.
What about the promise that they would lower taxes and put more money in the pockets of the working class? Did they deliver on such including creation of job opportunities? You be the judge. The President is aware that he will be facing an electorate that is weary of rising food costs. A persistent drought over the last two seasons has only compounded the hunger situation – more so in outlying areas of the country. In addition, the policy uncertainty in mining taxation and the stand – off between government and sections of the mining community is taking its toll on economic growth. Perceptions around inaction on corruption might not help his cause either. While some of these challenges might not be, the PF’s making, the electorate always tend to punish a sitting government for their suffering – sometimes unfairly so.
Never mind whether HH has genuine or has yet to formulate charges against the PF, he has consistently warned that the PF leadership will be called to account for wrong doing once he becomes President. The tacit implication of this threat is that, HH is already extending bed spaces at Chimbokaila, Kamwala Remand and possibly Lilayi prisons for use by the PF leadership. And knowing fully well what is at stake, a possible loss is too ghastly for the PF to contemplate. For President Lungu, there will be no better motivation to win the polls than lose to a sworn rival.
Its State House or bust for HH
PF has over-exposed the country to a mountain of debt that will outlive generations to come. It is precisely why the 2021 polls will boil down to the economy. As a businessman, HH knows too well the implications of our foreign debt on the fiscus. Zambia can’t afford to keep borrowing to fund consumption and expenditure on non-productive sectors of the economy.
This is the message he has been selling the grassroots. For a fact, he has the support of the broader investment community, including some global mining giants. Most important though, the International Monetary Fund appears to have factored in his possible victory in 2021 hence their reluctance to engage the current government on a possible economic rescue package.
The question is, has the UPND leader’s message of change found resonance with the electorate? While he appeals to the affluent and middle class in Parklands, Kansenshi and Kabulonga, the grassroots in Mandevu, kwa Nagoli and Chamboli seem to be struggling to grasp his vision for the country. Be reminded that he desperately needs this voting block to win the elections.
Against the backdrop of challenges, this looks like HH’s election to lose. Fact is, he can’t afford a record of 4 election loses on the trot. Such a scenario will certainly cast him into political wilderness and the glue that’s bound the UPND together over the years will finally loosen. Is this what he wants?
It’s entirely up to him and how he manages his campaign otherwise it might just well be that he will once again fall short of expectation and hand the PF another 5 years in power. And him being such a vexatious litigant, our Supreme and Constitutional courts will likely be kept busy. Watch this space.
The author is an avid reader of political history and philosophy. He loves Nshima with game meat. For feedback contact him on kwachaoneATgmailDOTcom
The Zambia Police Service has launched a full-scale manhunt for Constable Emmanuel Tembo, an officer of the Protective Unit Headquarters, who allegedly stole K622,483 from a bank on September 15, 2025, while on duty.
According to Police Public Relations Officer Rae Hamoonga, Tembo was armed with an AK47 rifle loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition when he reportedly entered the bank under the pretext of performing his official duties. After the bank had closed and staff were preparing cash-in-transit collections, Tembo allegedly accessed the bulk room, took a sealed bag containing the cash, and fled the premises.
“Attempts by bank staff and security officers to apprehend him proved futile as he fled in an unknown direction,” Mr. Hamoonga said.
The officer later abandoned his uniform, firearm, and ammunition, which were recovered after he reportedly surrendered them through a taxi driver in Shimabala. As of now, neither Tembo nor the stolen cash has been recovered, and investigations have been intensified.
“The Zambia Police Service strongly condemns such grave misconduct and betrayal of public trust by an officer entrusted with safeguarding life and property,” Mr. Hamoonga stated.
He added, “We wish to make it categorically clear that this act of criminality will not go unpunished. Constable Emmanuel Tembo is now a fugitive, and the Zambia Police will relentlessly pursue him to ensure he answers for this crime.”
Authorities have appealed to the public to provide any information that may lead to Tembo’s arrest, urging citizens to report credible tips to the nearest police station.
“The Zambia Police Service remains steadfast in upholding discipline, accountability, and the rule of law, even within its own ranks. No one is above the law,” Mr. Hamoonga emphasized.
The construction of the Rice Centre of Excellence in Luapula Province has reached 84 percent completion, marking a major step toward boosting Zambia’s rice production and reducing reliance on imported seed.
The project, funded through a grant from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), is designed to develop suitable rice seed varieties for cultivation in Luapula, Northern, and Muchinga Provinces. Once completed, the centre will also serve as a hub for training and research, equipping scientists and smallholder farmers with the skills and resources to produce high-quality rice.
JICA representative Shago Takeda said the facility will train 950 farmers annually and will be equipped with irrigation systems to support production amid climate change.
Ministry of Agriculture Acting Permanent Secretary for Administration, Lemmy Kafwamfwa, highlighted the national significance of the project during a courtesy call on Luapula Province Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary, Evans Sikabbubba, by a delegation from JICA and the Zambia Agriculture Research Institute (ZARI).
“What we are doing here is laying a solid foundation for national food security and farmer empowerment,” said Mr. Kafwamfwa. “The Centre will not only benefit Luapula but will contribute nationally through increased seed availability and knowledge transfer.”
Mr. Sikabbubba emphasized the crop’s growing importance, noting that Mansa, Lunga, and Chifunabuli districts are emerging as key rice production areas in the province.
“We have the land, we have the water, and we have a very supportive environment. Just yesterday, Kawambwa received rainfall, an early sign of a favourable season. We now need to mobilise our farmers and encourage them to embrace rice farming more seriously,” he said.
ZARI Acting Director Ndashe Kapulu said the key challenge in rice production is the lack of quality seed, adding that with JICA’s support, improved early-generation seed will soon be available.
The Rice Centre of Excellence is expected to significantly boost Zambia’s rice value chain by providing affordable, high-quality seed and strengthening the capacity of local farmers.
The United Party for National Development (UPND) in Central Province, says President Hakainde Hichilema deserves another term in 2026 as he has delivered on his campaign promises.
UPND Provincial Information and Publicity Secretary (IPS), Fred Khunga, said President Hichilema has performed exceptionally to guarantee him a second term of office.
Speaking in an interview with ZANIS, Mr Khunga said the country is on the right economic trajectory because of the sound policies and programmes that are being implemented in various sectors by the government under President Hichilema.
“President Hichilema is a visionary leader who has demonstrated that he means well for this country. This is evident through economic stabilisation and implementation of a number of pro-poor policies such as the free education policy,” Mr Khunga said.
He said the increase of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), is another milestone that has continued transforming the lives of citizens across the country because of the impactful projects and empowerment initiatives being implemented.
Mr Khunga cautioned Zambians against the call by some politicians that thrive on criticizing everything without objectively looking at the gains made in the first tenure of the UPND government.
He said the party leadership in Central Province is deeply disappointed with some politicians who have continued insulting President Hichilema on social media without offering any plausible solutions to the economic challenges the country is facing.
Mr Khunga said politics of insults should not have a place in Zambian politics describing the tendency as absurd and archaic to the values and principles of the country.
He has called for issue-based politics ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Mr Khunga urged Zambians to rally behind President Hichilema for continuity of the firm foundation his administration has laid for the country’s economic transformation.
He said the party leadership in Central Province, will continue working with the government in the implementation of developmental programmes.
Bank of Zambia Governor Dr. Denny Kalyalya has called on banks in the country to adopt more aggressive measures against cyber security threats and fraud.
Speaking at the ninth annual banking industry survey report findings presentation in Lusaka, Dr. Kalyalya stressed the importance of enhanced collaboration among banking institutions to combat rising cyber threats. The event was organised by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) Zambia.
“Cyber security is a serious threat within and across the region. It is a scourge that affects everybody and therefore requires concerted efforts to curb,” Dr. Kalyalya said.
The annual survey, conducted by PwC, provides insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by the Zambian banking sector, as reported by industry leaders. The findings are aimed at guiding banks on improving their operations and mitigating risks, including those posed by cybercrime.
Dr. Kalyalya’s call comes at a time when the banking sector faces increasing digital threats, underlining the need for robust systems and collective action to protect financial institutions and their clients.
deVere Group, the global financial advisory giant, declares the Federal Reserve’s latest move a watershed for markets, setting off what CEO Nigel Green calls “the opening stage of a potential worldwide bull run.”
“The Fed has fired the starting gun,” says Nigel Green.
“A quarter-point cut, a clear plan for two more this year, and an explicit focus on employment over inflation combine to deliver the most powerful signal we’ve seen in more than a year. Global investors will be acting now, not waiting.”
On Wednesday the central bank lowered its benchmark rate to a 4.00–4.25% range and, in a statement highlighting labor-market weakness, projected two further reductions before year-end.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average immediately surged more than 400 points, Treasury yields fell and markets priced in deeper easing.
“This is the Fed telling the world it will prioritize jobs and growth,” Nigel Green continues.
“Markets understand the implications: cheaper money, a softer dollar, and an extended expansion. We’re going to be seeing decisive positioning across portfolios.”
He notes that US consumer prices are still running at 2.9% year-on-year, yet job creation has slowed to just 22,000 and unemployment claims have climbed to multi-year highs.
“Policymakers can tolerate a little extra inflation,” he says, “but they’ll not risk a hard landing. This is why the Dow jumped 400 points within hours and why capital is flowing into risk assets globally.”
“Tech and infrastructure plays are regaining momentum as financing costs drop,” Nigel Green explains.
“We’re also seeing expanded allocations to Bitcoin and other digital assets as real rates fall and liquidity rises. These are not tentative moves, capital is shifting now.”
Nigel Green underscores that politics will reinforce the momentum. “President Trump wants strong growth heading into the mid-terms, and the Fed is now aligned with that objective. Fiscal and monetary policy are pulling in the same direction to sustain expansion.”
While upcoming jobs and inflation data will inject bouts of volatility, he believes the direction is set.
“Every release will either confirm the Fed’s hand or accelerate it. Those holding back for perfect clarity will pay a premium to catch up.”
He concludes: “The era of restrictive policy is ending.
“The Dow’s 400-point surge is likely to be only the beginning. Investors we advise across the world are positioning for what could be a sustained rally because this is the decisive shift – and guidance – they’ve been waiting for in many cases.”
The Higher Education Loans and Scholarships Board (HELSB) has awarded student loans to 492 first year students at Chalimbana University for the 2025/2026 academic year.
According to a press statement released by HELSB Corporate Affairs Manager, Chiselwa Kawanda, the board received a total of 1,687 applications for loans and after screening, 1,469 applicants, representing 87 percent were considered eligible, while 218 applicants, accounting for 13 percent, were found ineligible.
Ms Kawanda explained that despite 1,469 applicants being considered eligible, only 492 were awarded student loans.
She stated that of those awarded, 833 are male, representing 57 percent, while 636 are female, translating to 43 percent.
She explained that the bulk of the successful applicants come from rural areas with 1,203 candidates, or 82 percent compared to 266 applicants, representing 18 percent from urban areas.
She explained that HELSB also confirmed that all five (5) students with disabilities who applied were successfully awarded loans.
Ms Kawanda further highlighted that some applicants were declared ineligible due to reasons such as completing Grade 12 before 2020, submitting incomplete or incorrect documentation, or exceeding the maximum age limit of 26 years.
Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) Plc wishes to clarify that the article published by the Zambia Monitor on 15 September 2025, titled “Konkola Copper Mines Unveils $2.5bn Expansion Plan to Unlock 16 million Tonnes of Copper”, is factually incorrect and not based on any official communication from the Company.
KCM reiterates that no official statement has been made regarding a US$2.5 billion investment plan. Any future investment beyond the currently approved US$1 billion will be guided by comprehensive feasibility studies and will only be announced upon approval by the KCM Board.
That said, KCM affirms the positive growth trajectory the company is currently experiencing.Significant steps are being taken to ramp up production and contribute meaningfully to Zambia’s national goal of producing 3 million tonnes of copper annually by 2031.
As part of this effort, KCM has engaged Mancala, a reputable mining company, to undertake critical underground excavations at the Konkola Deep Mining Project (KDMP) in Chililabombwe.KDMP features one of the deepest shafts in Zambia at 1,505 metres, situated on one of the world’s highest-grade copper deposits, with over 291 million tonnes of ore and a projected mine
life of at least 50 years. This investment will provide opportunities for local jobs.
In addition to KDMP developments, KCM has also upgraded its high-speed underground rail system which marks significant milestone in production infrastructure following the first successful raise boring in 15 years.
Since the resumption of operations under Vedanta Resources in August 2024, KCM has continued to deliver improved production performance. In August 2025, the company recorded 8,100 metric tonnes of finished copper up from an average of 5,500 in December 2024, reflectingsteady progress toward production ramp-up targets.
The Gauteng High Court in Pretoria has dismissed, with costs, an application by the family of former Zambian President Edgar Lungu seeking leave to appeal to the Supreme Court of Appeal. The family had challenged an earlier ruling that granted the Zambian government the right to repatriate Lungu’s body for a state funeral and burial.
Lungu, who served as Zambia’s sixth president from 2015 to 2021, died in a South African hospital in June 2025. His passing sparked a bitter legal dispute between his family and the Zambian state. While the government insisted on a state funeral in Zambia — consistent with the law and national tradition for former heads of state — the family sought a private burial in South Africa. They cited Lungu’s personal wishes and objected to the participation of President Hakainde Hichilema in the official proceedings.
In its judgment, the High Court found that the family’s application lacked merit, stressing that there were no reasonable prospects of success for an appeal. The court reasoned that:
The dispute was fact-specific, making it unlikely that a similar case would arise in future.
The matter did not raise any compelling constitutional or legal issues that warranted referral to the Supreme Court of Appeal.
The ruling effectively blocks further legal avenues for the Lungu family, clearing the way for the Zambian government to proceed with repatriation arrangements. The judgment also reaffirms the principle that when it comes to state funerals for former heads of state, national law and public interest take precedence over private or family preferences.
Legal commentators note that the case underscores the strength of state protocols surrounding national leaders’ burials and highlights the delicate balance between personal wishes and public duty.
The Lusaka Magistrates Court has sentenced two witch doctors to 24 months in prison for attempting to bewitch President Hakainde Hichilema.
Magistrate Fine Mayambu sentenced Jasten Mabulesse Candunde, 42, a Mozambican national, and Leonard Phiri, 43, a Zambian from Sinda district in Eastern Province, to 24 months’ imprisonment for the first count of professing knowledge of witchcraft, and a further six months for the second count of unlawful possession of charms.
The sentences will run concurrently.
In delivering the sentence, Magistrate Mayambu acknowledged that the two were first-time offenders, which ordinarily warrants leniency.
He also noted that the law under which they were charged allows for the imposition of a fine, and that there were no aggravating circumstances, particularly in light of President Hakainde Hichilema’s public statement dismissing belief in witchcraft.
Additionally, both men had already spent time in custody since December 2024.
However, the magistrate emphasised that the seriousness of their intent could not be overlooked, ultimately justifying the custodial sentence.
“Evidence before this court shows that the duo’s goal was not merely to instil fear, but to take the life of the President, they travelled all the way from Mozambique and Chipata with determination to carry out this mission. Such intent cannot be trivialised,” Magistrates Mayambu said.
He added that although President Hichilema has publicly stated that he does not believe in witchcraft, the seriousness of the offence lies in the potential consequences had the act been successful.
He said if the mission was successful, the President could have died within five days as the court heard during trial.
Magistrates Mayambu said the offence in issue may not be prevalent but the motive was to kill the President.
“Anything to do with the President was of public interest and therefore the convicts were not only enemies of the President but of the entire country,” Magistrate Mayambu said.
“The death of a President carries significant national implications, both economically and politically as evidenced from the past when this country lost its presidents,” he said.
The court heard that the duo was arrested in December 2024 after they were found with various items believed to be used for witchcraft, including a live chameleon.
Their actions, according to the prosecution, were part of a plot to use supernatural means to kill the Head of State.
The two were charged under the Witchcraft Act, Chapter 90 of the laws of Zambia.
In count one, they were found guilty of professing knowledge of witchcraft, contrary to Section 5 of the Act.
Particulars of the offence were that between November 22 and 24, 2024, the pair professed to possess supernatural powers with the intention of causing fear.
In count two, they were convicted for unlawful possession of charms, contrary to Section 11(2) of the same Act.
Items recovered from them included various charms and a live chameleon, believed to be part of their ritualistic plot.
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joseph Malanji has filed a notice of appeal in the High Court against the conviction and his four-year prison sentence by the Lusaka Magistrate court.
According to a notice of appeal filed by Mr Malanji’s lawyers, Messrs Makebi Zulu Advocates, the grounds of the appeal are that the trial magistrate, Magistrate Ireen Wishimanga, erred in law when she determined the matter without having jurisdiction to do as she did.
The defence lawyers added that the learned trial court gravely erred in law and fact by holding that the second appellant was the beneficial owner of the companies on account of his shareholding directorship, and control contrary to the established principle of separate legal personality.
The lawyers also argued that the learned trial court erred in law and fact by assuming that the funds used to purchase the two helicopters subject of courts three and four, came from the accused person’s trips to Turkey and Morocco without evidence to support the assumption.
With regard to the State’s application to the forfeiture of Mr Malanji’s properties which are suspected to be proceeds of crime, Messrs Makebi Zulu Advocates have asked the court to dismiss the request.
The team argued that the application to forfeit the properties was legally unsustainable as it is premised on a flawed understanding of the law and an outright disregard of binding authority.
The defence lawyers cited the forfeiture of Proceeds of Crime Act No. 19 of 2010, which does not envisage an indiscriminate confiscation of property.
“Section 20 (1) of the Act provides that where a person obtains property as a result of, or in connection with the commission of a serious offence, the person’s benefit is the value of the property so obtained.
Where a person derives an advantage, the person’s advantage is deemed to be a sum of money equal to the value of the advantage derived,” the appeal read in part.
On September 4th, 2025, the Lusaka Magistrate Court sentenced Mr Malanji to four years imprisonment with hard labour, while his co-accused, former Secretary to the Treasury, Fredson Yamba was handed a three-year sentence with hard labour.
The sentencing was delivered by Magistrate Ireen Wishimanga who convicted Mr Yamba on two counts of failing to follow official procedure, while Mr Malanji was found guilty on seven counts of possessing property suspected to be proceeds of crime.
The Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) has stepped up efforts to safeguard vulnerable households in hard-to-reach areas from food shortages during the rainy season.
DMMU National Coordinator Norman Chipakupaku announced that government has allocated 10,181 metric tonnes of relief food, with 3,117 metric tonnes already prepositioned in strategic locations nationwide.
He explained that the move is critical as some areas become inaccessible once the rains set in, making timely delivery of aid difficult.
Food Allocations Across Districts
Mr. Chipakupaku revealed that 13.5 metric tonnes of rice will be distributed to both Mansa and Chipata, while 280 metric tonnes of maize has been positioned for Nabwalya in Mpika. In addition, 140 metric tonnes of mixed food will go to Sioma and Shang’ombo districts.
He added that Chibombo, Kabwe, and Mkushi will each receive 2.5 metric tonnes of beans, while Lusaka has already received 22.5 metric tonnes. To support education, 2,500 metric tonnes of maize have been allocated to the School Feeding Programme under the Ministry of Education.
Airlifting Relief Supplies
Mr. Chipakupaku also disclosed that about 450 metric tonnes of food are being airlifted to Western and Southern provinces under the Blue Lugwasho exercise, conducted in partnership with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Air Force relief simulations.
He reaffirmed DMMU’s commitment to ensuring no household is left vulnerable during the rainy season, stressing that preparedness remains a cornerstone of disaster management.
It’s ridiculous that we are even discussing this in 2025. Two men accused of trying to bewitch the president of Zambia through some kind of magic were arrested in December, 2024. The government used some old colonial era law that is somehow still on the books in modern Zambia. It is one of those anachronistic laws that no one has bothered to repeal simply because they never expected anyone to actually be arrested for witchcraft in this era.
The episode was so ludicrous that even people in other countries were making jokes and comical memes about it, including Zambia’s close neighboring countries like Malawi and Zimbabwe, besides reports in Western media. The Zambian authorities were not deterred by such embarrassing publicity, and proceeded seriously with the case until a conviction of the two was obtained by the prosecution this week. In their plea for leniency, the defense lawyers argued that even the president himself, Mr. Hichilema, has publicly stated that witchcraft does not exist. The judge would have none of that and meted out the maximum sentence of 2 years imprisonment with hard labour!
The context in which the president had declared his skepticism in the existence of witchcraft was when some critics were accusing him of having ritual interests in the body of his deceased predecessor, Mr. Edgar Lungu. Three months after his death, the late former president has still not been buried due to a bizarre impasse between the family of Mr. Lungu and his successor. The family has expressed the strong wish of the deceased to not allow the current president, with whom he had an openly acrimonious relationship, to come “anywhere near the body.” The government of Mr. Hichilema has insisted that this is not acceptable and has taken the family to court in South Africa to prevent his burial in that country, thus continuing a protracted standoff that is unprecedented in Zambian history, if not world history.
It was this unbending insistence that the burial program must include the president, that sparked rumours of witchcraft interests. Some suggested that the president needed to lay his eyes on the body of Mr. Lungu in order to entrench his hold on power, as a new election approaches. Others said he needed to take some body parts for him to perform some spiritual rituals to cleanse himself of some kind of curse for his alleged culpability in the death of his nemesis. A Zambian scholar in South Africa, Sishuwa Sishuwa, had in fact written a long article theorizing that the entire debacle can only be understood if seen through the prism of such witchcraft beliefs from both the president and the family of Mr. Lungu. At least half of his thesis was confirmed when the sister of Mr. Lungu publicly accused the president of having this very motivation of ritualistic witchcraft as she wailed in response to a judgment in the Pretoria Court that ordered the family to hand over the body to the Zambian government. The family has since applied to appeal this judgment to a higher court.
It was at the height of this contentious drama, perhaps with the added pressure from foreign donors to Zambia, that the president emphatically stated that he does not believe in witchcraft, or indeed that witchcraft even exists. This, of course, did not stop the rumours, especially since there was this strange case of men being arrested and tried for the very offense that the president believes exists only in Harry Potter novels.
Unfortunately, the president did nothing to save these two poor people from the torture of enduring arrest and trial for something that “does not exist.” The least that was expected was for the president to express his displeasure for such an irrational arrest, especially in a country where courts are already overburdened with too many pending cases. If anything, this statement would have discouraged the police from wasting resources on such frivolous “crimes” in the future.
What is frustrating is that this is just another case of harmless private citizens suffering immense pain for nothing, with no empathy from those in power. Expressing beliefs in witchcraft should not land anyone in prison, especially in the 21st century. But this only extends the pattern of similar arrests and prosecutions for people who have simply expressed their beliefs, including the controversial video blogger “Why Me” who has now been arrested two times for his “insulting” content, and is undergoing trial that will send him to prison again for his mere opinions. And these are not the only ones: there have been other people, including two harmless women in Chipata, who were arrested and imprisoned for simple harmless words. The common thread in just about all of these cases is the expression of a negative and insulting attitude to President Hichilema.
These events have been especially disappointing because the UPND campaigned on the promise of bringing freedoms to Zambians, and there were many people, including this author, who were fully optimistic that this was the one promise that would be delivered. Unlike their other promises of economic prosperity, this one does not need any expensive resources to deliver. It requires only a commitment to integrity and self restraint, by allowing all kinds of beliefs and opinions to vent without fear of arrest or official persecution. Even without fulfillment of economic promises, creating such a climate of true freedom would have retained the popularity of the UPND. Instead, they have even worsened some freedom-suppressing laws, including the “cyber crime laws” that they vociferously attacked when they were in opposition.
The failure to keep this one promise of free speech has made many Zambians completely lose faith in the sincerity of politicians, which will make it very difficult for any candidate’s promises to be taken seriously in next year’s general elections. This is an unfortunate loss for democracy.
However, it is not too late for our president and his administration to fix this threat of cynicism by abolishing these archaic or repressive laws, and by exercising his prerogative of mercy to pardon everyone who has been convicted for merely expressing their beliefs or opinions, even if these were uncharitable to the president.
The author, Chanda Chisala, is the Founder of Zambia Online and Khama Institute. He is formerly a John S. Knight Fellow at Stanford University and Visiting Scholar to the Hoover Institution, a policy think tank at Stanford. He was also a Reagan Fellow at the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) in Washington, DC. You can follow him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/chandachisala
ZAMMSA Workers Threaten Industrial Action Over Delayed Agreement
Unionised employees at the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency have warned that they will take industrial action if management does not immediately implement the collective bargaining agreement they say was concluded three months ago. In a letter dated September 4, 2025 addressed to the director general, National Union of Commercial and Industrial Workers of Zambia Congress of Trade Unions secretary general George Kanyanta said the agency had not effected the negotiated terms and that members were running out of patience.
Kanyanta stated that the agreement covered salary increments and other allowances, and that failure to implement the package had placed strain on workers who are already facing a high cost of living. He said management’s inaction breached the understanding reached at the bargaining table and undermined the rights and welfare of staff at the agency. He further cited the legal framework, referencing CAP 269 section 75 of the Laws of Zambia, and argued that non compliance with agreed terms is not consistent with the protections owed to union members.
The union demanded that management honour the agreement within September 2025. Kanyanta warned that if the matter is not resolved within that timeframe, the union would consider lawful remedies available under labour statutes, including steps that could lead to a work stoppage. He said the objective is to secure the agreed adjustments without disruption to services, but that employees cannot be expected to wait indefinitely once a collective agreement has been concluded.
Sources close to the agency said governance gaps were contributing to delays. According to those sources, ZAMMSA has operated without a board for more than eight months. In the absence of a board, they said, approvals that would ordinarily be handled by directors have been pushed to the line ministry. They described the arrangement as an obstacle to routine decision making and said it has left management reluctant to move on commitments without ministerial sign off. The sources added that many positions in management are currently filled in an acting capacity, which they said complicates accountability for time sensitive human resource decisions.
The same sources said management had indicated that the agency could meet the agreed position but required a green light from the Minister of Health before releasing the salary adjustments. They also pointed to earlier correspondence in which a previous management team wrote to the ministry stating that no salary increments would be effected. Union representatives said that letter was sent without agreement with workers and before the 2025 bargaining process had formally begun.
Details shared from the bargaining rounds held between February and June 2023 show that management initially proposed a zero increment, a stance the union rejected, citing pressure on household budgets. The parties eventually settled on a compromise that would award 500 kwacha to all unionised employees with effect from January 2025. According to sources, the understanding at the time was that management would implement the other agreed items immediately, while the salary component would follow after authority was obtained from the minister.
The union says that sequence has now stretched far beyond what members considered reasonable. Kanyanta’s letter pressed management to communicate clearly and to move forward on the binding terms that were negotiated. He said the workforce has tried to remain patient but that uncertainty has created agitation on the shop floor. He also urged the employer to work with the union to prevent disruption to ZAMMSA’s core functions, which include the procurement and distribution of medicines and medical supplies.
Staff who spoke on condition of anonymity said frustration has grown because the agency’s mandate touches hospitals and clinics across the country, and employees do not want to see operations slowed by a labour dispute. They said they are still attending to duties and expect the leadership to resolve the impasse quickly so attention can remain on the public health supply chain. They also said they expect transparent communication on timelines for implementing the salary adjustment and the other allowances contained in the agreement.
The call from the union places the matter squarely with the agency’s leadership and the supervising ministry. If approvals are needed, workers want them expedited so that the agreement can be implemented without further delay. The union maintains that the negotiated package reflected the financial realities facing staff and that honouring it now would stabilise relations at the agency. Management has not yet issued a detailed public response to the letter, and workers say their next steps will depend on whether the agency meets the September implementation window.
Bank of Zambia Governor Calls for Deeper Financial Inclusion
Bank of Zambia Governor Dr Denny Kalyalya has highlighted the importance of expanding financial inclusion, saying that while progress has been made, more work is required to ensure the banking sector serves the majority of citizens. Speaking at the 2025 Banking and Financial Services Conference in Livingstone, Dr Kalyalya noted that ninety percent of deposit accounts in Zambia hold balances below K50,000, showing that large deposits are concentrated in a small segment of account holders.
Delivering remarks through his deputy, Francis Chipimo, the Governor said the figures reveal a growing but uneven banking landscape. He explained that while financial inclusion has improved significantly in recent years, the distribution of deposits demonstrates that the benefits are still not spread evenly across society. He said Zambia’s financial system must continue to evolve in a way that supports small and medium enterprises and ordinary households, not only large institutions.
Dr Kalyalya outlined several reforms that the central bank is implementing to strengthen the financial sector. Among them is the introduction of a deposit insurance scheme by the end of this year, which will provide structured protection for depositors in case of bank failures. He said the measure would enhance public confidence in the banking sector and encourage more people to use formal financial services.
He also pointed to signs of stability in the financial system, saying that non-performing loans remain below benchmark thresholds, an indication of improved asset quality. He added that reliance on government securities had reduced from 23 percent in 2020 to 20 percent in 2024, reflecting greater confidence in the private sector and improved fiscal management.
The Governor said Zambia’s fiscal position has strengthened significantly over the last four years. He noted that fiscal deficits, which were estimated at 40 percent of gross domestic product in 2020, have been cut to 3.4 percent, largely due to debt restructuring and improved budget discipline. He emphasised that this progress should be consolidated with policies that encourage inclusive growth.
Dr Kalyalya stressed the central role of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in economic growth. He said these businesses are the backbone of job creation and innovation, and the banking sector must make services more affordable and accessible for them. He explained that the Bank of Zambia is working with commercial banks to reduce service costs through technology and digital platforms, which he described as key tools for expanding inclusion.
He also addressed the need to integrate climate change and social equity considerations into financial sector planning. He said finance leaders must embrace sustainable strategies that respond to new risks and global challenges, ensuring that the banking system supports not only profit but also resilience and fairness.
The conference, hosted by the Zambia Institute of Banking and Financial Services, brought together industry leaders and policymakers. ZIBFS president Lishala Situmbeko echoed the Governor’s message, calling on the financial community to play an active role in building systems that address inequality and help the country transition towards a sustainable economy.
Dr Kalyalya said the focus moving forward would be to balance stability with growth. While Zambia’s banking system is more stable than it was five years ago, the Governor warned that stability alone is not enough if most citizens remain outside the formal financial system. He said the central bank would continue to strengthen regulation while also promoting innovation that reduces costs and expands access.
He added that financial literacy is equally important, as citizens must be able to understand and take advantage of the services available to them. Expanding knowledge about savings, loans, and insurance, he said, would help Zambians make informed decisions and reduce vulnerability to financial shocks.
The Governor closed his remarks by urging collaboration across all stakeholders, including banks, regulators, government ministries, and civil society, to achieve a financial sector that serves the entire population. He said the goal was to build a system where citizens at every income level have access to safe, affordable, and effective financial services.
PF Demands Justice After Chisenga Assault in Parliament
The Patriotic Front has demanded swift action following the reported assault of Mambilima Member of Parliament Jean Chisenga within the grounds of the National Assembly. The incident occurred on Friday while President Hakainde Hichilema was addressing the House, and has since become the subject of sharp criticism from opposition leaders who say it represents a serious failure of security at one of the country’s most important institutions.
According to Chisenga, she had stepped out of the chamber to meet a guest at the Parliament Restaurant when she was confronted by a group of United Party for National Development cadres. She said the group, led by a party chairlady, accused her of insulting the President and then slapped her in full view of police officers and Parliament security. She described the attack as humiliating and questioned how such conduct could be allowed inside the precincts of the National Assembly.
Patriotic Front national youth chairperson Celestine Mukandila condemned the incident and said it was unacceptable for ruling party cadres to assault an elected representative inside Parliament while security officers stood by. He said Parliament was supposed to be a safe space for lawmakers to conduct their duties without fear of intimidation or violence.
Mukandila said the attack showed that the ruling party was more focused on silencing dissent than on addressing the country’s developmental needs. He added that it was disturbing for the assault to take place while the President was delivering a national address in which he emphasised rule of law and the elimination of cadre violence. “It is clear that this government is unwilling to curb violence by its own supporters. Instead, it is tolerating behaviour that undermines democracy and threatens the lives of opposition members,” Mukandila said.
He also criticised the Zambia Police Service and the National Assembly security for failing to arrest the perpetrators on the spot, saying this inaction raised questions about whether opposition MPs could expect protection while working at Parliament. “Members of Parliament must feel safe in the precincts of the Assembly, but if cadres can walk in and assault elected representatives in full view of the police without consequence, then there is a breakdown in order,” he said.
The PF has called on the Speaker of the National Assembly to take up the matter urgently and ensure that the culprits are brought to justice. Mukandila said failure to act would set a dangerous precedent, where violence against opposition MPs is normalised and goes unpunished. He warned that while the PF had so far restrained its members in the interest of peace, it also had the capacity to respond to provocation if such incidents continued. “Our tolerance should not be mistaken for weakness. We are capable of defending ourselves if need arises,” he said.
Chisenga reiterated that she had done nothing to provoke the assault, saying she was only on her way to meet her guest when she was targeted. She said the attack was meant to intimidate her and silence her voice, but vowed not to be deterred from carrying out her parliamentary responsibilities.
The Patriotic Front has also called for accountability from the police command, saying officers who failed to protect Chisenga should explain their inaction. The party insists that a thorough investigation must be conducted and the perpetrators prosecuted in line with the law.
The incident has heightened tension between the ruling and opposition parties, with the PF framing it as evidence that political violence continues despite repeated assurances from the President that cadreism has been dismantled. For the opposition, the case represents a test of whether government promises on law and order are being enforced consistently.
