Open Zambia

31/10/2025

PF INFIGHTING CONTINUES AS MUNDUBILE DEFIES PARTY ORDERS

Patriotic Front presidential hopeful Brian Mundubile has defied his party's orders by continuing his campaign.

The move comes despite clear instructions from the party’s Information and Publicity Chairperson Emmanuel Mwamba, who publicly stated on Wednesday that all party members should halt unauthorised presidential campaigns ahead of the upcoming leadership election. Mwamba characterized such activities “lawlessness."

Undeterred by his party's directive, Mundubile travelled to Kafue today, where he attended a service at the United Church of Zambia Women Christian Fellowship.

The party's Central Committee has scheduled a meeting for Sunday, 2 November, to discuss the next steps in addressing the ongoing leadership contest.

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31/10/2025

Morning Prayer Verse

"Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."

- Psalm 23:4

30/10/2025

INFLATION DROPS AGAIN IN OCTOBER

In welcome news for households and businesses across the nation, the Ministry of Finance and National Planning announced Thursday that Zambia's annual inflation has decreased to 11.9% in October, down from 12.3% in September. This positive trend demonstrates that the government's economic interventions are successfully reducing the cost pressures facing ordinary citizens.

According to the Zambia Statistics Agency, General Shalla Mudeende credited the government's strategic policy measures for this encouraging reduction in price movements. The targeted approach has proven particularly effective in controlling non-food inflation, which slowed to 14.1% compared to 14.6% the previous month. Meanwhile, non-food inflation has also shown improvement, dropping to 8.7% from 9%.

Citizens are now benefiting from more stable prices on essential everyday items such as meal-meal, chicken, fish and household necessities including hair plaiting products, personal care items, and kitchenware.

Lower inflation delivers tangible benefits throughout society by protecting household incomes and purchasing power. This stability is especially valuable for farmers, traders, and small businesses, enabling them to plan investments and predict operational costs with greater confidence and accuracy.

The Ministry also announced impressive trade figures, with Zambia's total international trade reaching K 414.2 billion, an 18.1% increase from the same period las year. The export sector showed strength, with road transport accounting for 94% of export value, while imports expanded across vital sectors including copper, agriculture, and manufactured goods.

Together, these developments reflect the government's successful economic stewardship and signal sustained momentum for the country's continued prosperity and growth.

In welcome news for households and businesses across the nation, the Ministry of Finance and National Planning announced Thursday that Zambia's annual inflation has decreased to 11.9% in October, down from 12.3% in September. This positive trend demonstrates that the government's economic interventi

30/10/2025

PF ORDERS HALT TO UNOFFICIAL PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGNS

The Patriotic Front has ordered party members to immediately stop all unauthorised presidential campaigns and endorsements ahead of its leadership election.

Emmanuel Mwamba, the party's Information and Publicity Chairperson, said on Wednesday that such activities were damaging the PF's reputation and making it appear chaotic.
"These acts amount to lawlessness," Mr Mwamba said in a statement, warning that unsanctioned campaigns would not be tolerated.

The directive comes as the party prepares to elect a new leader following the death of former president Edgar Lungu earlier this month.

Acting party president Given Lubinda is currently leading efforts to organise a general conference where a new president will be chosen.

At a Central Committee meeting on 6 October, party leaders agreed to consult with the Lungu family before finalising conference plans. A committee headed by Lupososhi MP Emmanuel Mpankanta was established to prepare campaign guidelines and logistics.

Mr Mwamba said an urgent Central Committee meeting would be held this Sunday, 2 November, to discuss the situation and plan for the ongoing voter registration exercise.

He urged senior leaders to support Mr Lubinda and Secretary General Raphael Nakacinda in maintaining party unity during this transition period.

The PF has been embroiled in legal battles with the government over control of the party, with Mr Mwamba saying the party constitution remains "our guiding light" through these challenges.

The Patriotic Front has ordered party members to immediately stop all unauthorised presidential campaigns and endorsements ahead of its leadership election. Emmanuel Mwamba, the party's Information and Publicity Chairperson, said on Wednesday that such activities were damaging the PF's reputation a

30/10/2025

ZRA INCREASES WATER ALLOCATION FOR 2026 POWER GENERATION

The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) has announced a 30 billion cubic metres (BCM) water allocation for power generation at Lake Kariba in 2026, representing a significant increase from the previous year's allocation.

The water will be equally divided between Zambia's Zesco Limited and Zimbabwe's Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), with each utility receiving 15 BCM. This marks an improvement from 2025's initial allocation of 27 BCM, later revised to 28 BCM.

ZRA Acting Chief Executive Engineer Christopher Chisense said the increased allocation is based on normal to above-normal rainfall forecasts for the 2025/2026 rainy season, as projected by the Southern Africa Climate Outlook Forum and regional meteorological agencies.

Despite normal rainfall during the 2024/2025 season, lake levels remained lower than historical averages but showed improvement compared to 2024, which was severely affected by drought conditions.

Chisense emphasised that while ZRA allocates water resources, it does not generate electricity or manage load distribution. He advised consumers to consult Zesco Limited and ZPC directly for electricity supply updates.

The Authority will continue monitoring rainfall patterns, water inflows, and lake levels through thirteen monitoring stations across the Kariba catchment, providing regular updates throughout the rainy season.

This increased allocation offers hope for improved power generation capacity for both Zambia and Zimbabwe in the coming year.

The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) has announced a 30 billion cubic metres (BCM) water allocation for power generation at Lake Kariba in 2026, representing a significant increase from the previous year's allocation. The water will be equally divided between Zambia's Zesco Limited and Zimbabwe's Zimb

30/10/2025

100k FARMERS PAID OUT OVER WEATHER SHOCKS

The Government has demonstrated strong commitment to supporting farmers through the Zambia State Insurance Corporation (ZSIC), providing crucial insurance payouts to Farmer Input Support Programme (FSP) beneficiaries whose crops were affected by adverse weather and climate conditions.

Despite challenging farming seasons in 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 that resulted in poor crop yields across the country, including Mumbwa District, the Government has taken proactive steps to support affected communities. An impressive 100,000 FSP beneficiary households from impacted districts received insurance payouts valued at over K122 million. Looking ahead, the programme continues to expand its reach, with 140,000 FSP beneficiary households already insured for the latest farming season of 2025/26.

The Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Permanent Secretary, Ms. Beatrice Chilomo, recently shared encouraging insights during her visit to Mumbwa. She acknowledged the vital role of the FSP in supporting smallholder farmers who depend on rain-fed agriculture. "Through the years, the FSP has supported thousands of households with farming inputs, livestock, and agricultural skills," Ms. Chilomo noted positively. The Government's commitment remains strong, with plans to support an additional 325,000 households under the programme in the 2026/2027 season.

Mr. Trevor Jengajenga, Managing Director of ZSIC, emphasized that the insurance payout represents "more than a cheque, it is a demonstration of commitment, partnership, and progress," while praising the Ministry for its dedicated work on farmers' welfare and rural development.

This intervention is designed to help farmers resume their agricultural activities and rebuild their livelihoods. The Mumbwa District Commissioner, Namukolo Hayumbu, has encouraged farmers to actively participate in the ongoing Constitutional review process by submitting their views to the Technical Committee, ensuring their voices are heard in shaping the nation's future.

The Government has demonstrated strong commitment to supporting farmers through the Zambia State Insurance Corporation (ZSIC), providing crucial insurance payouts to Farmer Input Support Programme (FSP) beneficiaries whose crops were affected by adverse weather and climate conditions. Despite chall

30/10/2025

WHAT THE PAPERS ARE SAYING

30/10/2025

GOVERNMENT PRAISED FOR STRONG KWACHA

Mining exports have driven increased foreign exchange inflows and strengthened the Kwacha, according to economic analysts. The local currency is currently trading at K21.70 for buying and K22.13 for selling against the US Dollar.

In an interview with ZNBC, trade expert Gilbert Nkamba attributed the strengthened exchange rate to elevated copper output that has enhanced Kwacha demand.

President Hakainde Hichilema has prioritised stable mining policy as a cornerstone of his economic agenda. Mr. Nkamba also commended the government's fiscal discipline, that “in terms of public expenditure, that has reduced the rate of inflation.” This progress was evident in September's inflation figures, which declined for the second consecutive month. Food inflation, a critical metric for ordinary Zambians, fell from 14.9% in August to 14.6% in September.

Economist Chimuka Matongo observed that the Kwacha's appreciation reflects more than mining sector performance alone—it also signals growing confidence in government economic policy.

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30/10/2025

Morning Prayer Verse

"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

- Jeremiah 29:11

29/10/2025

COURT EXTENDS WARRANT FOR PF OFFICIAL IN POLICE ASSAULT CASE

The Lusaka Magistrates' Court has extended a bench warrant against Emmanuel Mwamba, Information and Publicity Chairperson for the Patriotic Front (PF), who faces charges of assaulting a police officer.

Mwamba stands accused of assaulting Detective Inspector Steven Simwenda during the ex*****on of official duties on 14 June 2023, in Lusaka. The detective, bearing badge number 14598, was reportedly carrying out law enforcement responsibilities when the alleged incident occurred.

When the case appeared before Lusaka Senior Resident Magistrate Trevor Kasanda Kalisilira, prosecutors informed the court that authorities had not yet executed the previously issued bench warrant. "The matter was coming up for return of bench warrant, and the same was not executed," the prosecution stated.

Magistrate Kalisilira granted an extension of the warrant, allowing additional time for law enforcement to apprehend Mwamba. The case has been adjourned until 28 November 2025, when it will be mentioned again in court.

The charge against Mwamba falls under assault on a law enforcement officer, a serious offence that carries significant legal consequences. The extended warrant remains active, meaning Mwamba could be arrested at any time before the next court appearance.

The case continues to draw attention as it involves a prominent political figure and raises questions about accountability within Zambia's political sphere.

The Lusaka Magistrates' Court has extended a bench warrant against Emmanuel Mwamba, Information and Publicity Chairperson for the Patriotic Front (PF), who faces charges of assaulting a police officer. Mwamba stands accused of assaulting Detective Inspector Steven Simwenda during the ex*****on of o

29/10/2025

FNB ZAMBIA TO TAKE OVER STANDARD CHARTERED RETAIL OPERATIONS

First National Bank Zambia has struck a deal to acquire Standard Chartered's retail and wealth banking operations in what represents one of the largest banking sector transactions in recent years.

The agreement will transfer Standard Chartered's retail customers and wealth management clients to FNB once regulatory approvals are secured.

FNB Zambia CEO Kapumpe Chola said the deal demonstrates confidence in the country's economic prospects. "This strategic move underscores the confidence we have in the Zambian economy and the opportunities it presents," he said.

Standard Chartered customers will gain access to FNB's digital banking platforms and expanded service network following the integration.

FNB, which is owned by South Africa's FirstRand Group, has been growing its Zambian operations through digital services and locally-focused products.

The transaction comes as Zambia's banking sector shows signs of consolidation, with larger institutions expanding their market share. Neither bank disclosed the financial terms of the agreement.

The deal requires approval from the Bank of Zambia before it can be completed. Both banks said they would provide further details on the transition timeline for customers once regulatory clearance is obtained.

First National Bank Zambia has struck a deal to acquire Standard Chartered's retail and wealth banking operations in what represents one of the largest banking sector transactions in recent years. The agreement will transfer Standard Chartered's retail customers and wealth management clients to FNB

29/10/2025

FAZ PARTS WAYS WITH AVRAM GRANT AHEAD OF AFCON 2025

The Football Association of Zambia has parted ways with head coach Avram Grant just two months before the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

In an official statement released on Wednesday, October 29, FAZ confirmed:

"The Football Association of Zambia has agreed to mutually separate with Zambia Senior Men's National Team coach Avram Grant. The two parties agreed to mutually separate with FAZ wishing Mr Grant the best of luck in his future endeavours," said FAZ General Secretary Machacha Shepande.

FAZ head of media and communications Nkweto Tembwe confirmed the separation in a statement to members and stakeholders.

Shepande added that further details would be communicated later, noting, “For now, we can only thank Mr. Grant for his contribution to the Zambian game.”

Grant, an Israeli national and former manager, who was appointed on December 22, 2022, on a two-year deal, guided the Chipolopolo to two consecutive AFCON qualifications for the 2024 and 2025/26 editions.

Grant said: "I am proud to leave the team in a much better position than when I inherited it."

Pressure had been mounting on the former Chelsea and West Ham United coach following poor results in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where Zambia only managed two wins on the pitch while another came via a boardroom decision.

The announcement comes three weeks after government halted funding to Chipolopolo pending FAZ's response on improving results.

Zambia are drawn in Group A for AFCON 2025 in Morocco, alongside the host nation, Mali, and Comoros. FAZ is expected to announce Grant's replacement soon.

The Football Association of Zambia has parted ways with head coach Avram Grant just two months before the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. In an official statement released on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, FAZ confirmed: "The Football Association of Zambia has agreed to mutu