Open Zambia

21/07/2025

WHAT THE PAPERS ARE SAYING

18/07/2025

PRESIDENT HH PAYS TRIBUTE TO LATE NIGERIAN PRESIDENT BUHARI

President Hakainde Hichilema has praised the late former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari as a "principled and anti-corruption leader" while signing a book of condolences at the Nigerian High Commission in Lusaka.

President Buhari, who served as Nigeria's president from 2015 to 2023, died in London on 13 July 2025. He was known for his military background and his focus on fighting corruption during his civilian presidency.

Speaking at the Nigerian High Commission, President Hichilema hailed former President Buhari as a dedicated leader who "consistently put the interests of Nigeria first and demonstrated selfless leadership throughout his tenure."

"He served in the Nigerian military for many years, then he served as president, twice democratically elected," President Hichilema told journalists. "He served Africa through Nigeria, and served the world through Africa."

The president particularly praised Mr Buhari's anti-corruption efforts, recalling advice the Nigerian leader had given him during a meeting in South Africa.

"Public money, President Buhari said to me... we must work hard to keep it for the benefit of the public, and private money for private investors," Mr Hichilema said. "I learnt a lot from him."

President Hichilema described how Nigeria's handling of Mr Buhari's funeral demonstrated the proper "African way" of honouring the dead, as he continues negotiations with the family of Zambia's own former president over burial arrangements.

The tribute comes as the Zambian government continues what Mr Hichilema described as "quiet talks" with the family of former President Edgar Lungu regarding burial arrangements.

"We've continued engaging the family quietly, because that's what it should be," the president said, asking Zambians to "retain that patience as discussions continue."

Acting Nigerian High Commissioner to Zambia Chinyere Epelle expressed gratitude for Zambia's show of solidarity during Nigeria's period of mourning.

"We feel honoured to receive him in the high commission and we convey this message to our home government," Her excellency Chinyere Epelle said.

The diplomatic engagement reflects what she described as "the deepening of relations between African nations."

President Hakainde Hichilema has praised the late former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari as a "principled and anti-corruption leader" while signing a book of condolences at the Nigerian High Commission in Lusaka. President Buhari, who served as Nigeria's president from 2015 to 2023, d

17/07/2025

COURT RULES MAN HAS CASE TO ANSWER FOR IMPERSONATING FORMER MINISTER ON FACEBOOK

Lusaka Magistrates’ Court has determined that a 27-year-old man must defend himself against charges of impersonating a former government minister on social media.

Simon Mwalubulo appeared before the Lusaka Magistrates' Court facing identity-related offences for allegedly creating a fake Facebook account pretending to be Garry Nkombo, the former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development.

Court documents reveal that between 1st September and 31st October 2024, Mr Mwalubulo is accused of establishing a fraudulent Facebook profile using Mr Nkombo's personal identifiers without lawful justification.

The prosecution alleges that the defendant knowingly misrepresented himself as the former minister during this two-month period, potentially misleading members of the public who may have believed they were interacting with the genuine government official.

Senior Resident Magistrate Sylvia Munyinya presided over the case and ruled that sufficient evidence had been presented to establish a prima facie case against the accused.

The magistrate has since adjourned the matter to allow for the commencement of the defence phase, where Mr Mwalubulo will have the opportunity to present his case.

This case highlights the increasing challenges posed by social media impersonation, particularly involving public figures and government officials. Such incidents can undermine public trust and potentially spread misinformation.

Mr Mwalubulo now faces the task of defending himself against the charges when the case resumes. The court's decision to find him with a case to answer indicates that the prosecution has met the threshold for the matter to proceed to full trial.

The case is expected to continue when the defence phase begins, with the court yet to announce the next hearing date.

Lusaka Magistrates’ Court has determined that a 27-year-old man must defend himself against charges of impersonating a former government minister on social media. Simon Mwalubulo appeared before the Lusaka Magistrates' Court facing identity-related offences for allegedly creating a fake Facebook a...

17/07/2025

ZAMBIA ON TRACK TO REACH ONE MILLION TONNES OF COPPER PRODUCTION

President Hakainde Hichilema has announced that Zambia is projected to reach one million tonnes of copper production this year, a significant step towards the government’s target of three million tonnes annually by 2030.

Speaking at the Invest in Zambia Conference in Lusaka, President Hichilema outlined the country’s renewed mining momentum, driven by reforms aimed at unlocking dormant assets and attracting large-scale investment. Key among these efforts has been the reopening of previously inactive sites, including Kalengwa and 28 Shaft, which have been reactivated as part of broader plans to revitalise the sector.

The President also referenced Barrick Lumwana, a major copper mine that had previously considered exiting Zambia. Following sustained dialogue and policy engagement, the company has instead opted to remain and reinvest over $2 billion into its operations, a strong signal of investor confidence in Zambia’s improving business climate.

Zambia’s upward copper production trend is underpinned by a stable governance framework and legal environment that protects investors, fosters transparency, and encourages long-term partnerships. Zambia’s mining sector is poised to play a crucial role in both regional development and international supply chains.

President Hakainde Hichilema has announced that Zambia is projected to reach one million tonnes of copper production this year, a significant step towards the government’s target of three million tonnes annually by 2030. Speaking at the Invest in Zambia Conference in Lusaka, President Hichilema ou...

17/07/2025

𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐫 𝐀𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐭: 𝐙𝐂𝐂𝐌-𝐈𝐇 𝐂𝐄𝐎 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐧 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐲!

Our Chief Executive Officer, Mr Kakenenwa Muyangwa, will join an esteemed panel of thought leaders at the Backchat Live Interactive Podcast that will take place this afternoon at the ongoing Invest in Zambia International Conference (IZIC).

Topic: How Zambian Mining Can Power the Green Energy Revolution

Date: Thursday, 17 July 2025

Time: 14:00 – 15:30

Venue: Mulungushi International Conference Centre

Alongside distinguished guests, Mr Muyangwa will share insights on how the mining sector can catalyse Zambia’s transition to green energy and contribute to sustainable development.

Don’t miss this engaging and thought-provoking discussion as we explore how to harness Zambia’s mining potential for a greener future!

Zambia Development Agency

16/07/2025

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SPEAKER RESERVES RULING ON OPPOSITION MP'S EXTENDED ABSENCE

A National Assembly Speaker has reserved a ruling on whether opposition MP Tasila Lungu Mwansa, who has been absent from parliament for months, should lose her seat.

Speaker Nelly Mutti was asked to rule on the continued absence of Chawama constituency MP Ms Lungu, daughter of late former president Edgar Lungu.

The ruling People's Party (UPND) MP Brian Kambita raised the matter during parliamentary proceedings, questioning whether the house was "in order" to allow Ms Lungu to continue serving when she allegedly has no intention of returning to Zambia.

The challenge comes after former First Lady Esther Lungu told a South African court that the family did not wish to return to Zambia, citing safety concerns during ongoing legal proceedings over her late husband's burial.

Mr Kambita cited parliamentary Standing Order 23, which requires MPs to seek written permission from the Speaker or Government Chief Whip for extended absences. Under the rules, MPs absent for four or more consecutive sittings without permission face referral to the Committee on Privileges and Absences.

The procedure can ultimately lead to suspension: seven days for first offenders, 14 days for second offenders, and 30 days for repeat offenders.

Ms Lungu, who has served as Chawama MP since 2021 under the opposition Patriotic Front (PF), has been absent from parliament while her family remains in South Africa amid a legal dispute with the government.

Local reports suggest some constituents in Chawama have called for Ms Lungu's replacement, with at least one businessman launching a campaign to contest the seat.

Speaker Mutti's eventual ruling will determine whether Ms Lungu can continue representing her constituency while remaining outside the country, or whether her prolonged absence constitutes grounds for losing her parliamentary seat.

A National Assembly Speaker has reserved a ruling on whether opposition MP Tasila Lungu Mwansa, who has been absent from parliament for months, should lose her seat. Speaker Nelly Mutti was asked to rule on the continued absence of Chawama constituency MP Ms Lungu, daughter of late former president

16/07/2025

PRESIDENT HICHILEMA LAUNCHES $70 MILLION SME FUND TO DRIVE ECONOMIC GROWTH

President Hakainde Hichilema has officially launched the $70 million Growth Investment Partners (GIP) initiative, a landmark programme aimed at supporting 150 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the region. Over the next 15 years, the initiative is expected to mobilise $300 million in investment toward SME development and expansion.

Backed by key partners including British International Investment (BII), the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA), and Swedfund, GIP represents a strategic commitment to unlocking long-term financing for Zambia’s SME sector.

Speaking at the launch, President Hichilema emphasised the vital role SMEs play in national development.

“SMEs contribute approximately 70 percent of our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and account for over 80 percent of employment. Yet, despite their significance, they continue to face challenges in accessing affordable capital,” he said.

The President called on all GIP stakeholders to pursue collaborative projects that will accelerate inclusive economic growth. He also reiterated that the establishment of the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprises is a cornerstone of the government’s broader strategy to foster entrepreneurship, spur job creation, and strengthen the private sector.

Marie Aglert, Chief Investment Officer at Swedfund, welcomed the initiative, noting that tailored financial solutions are critical to SME resilience and scale.

“Through this investment in GIP Zambia, we are providing local currency financing specifically designed to meet the needs of Zambian SMEs. This aligns with Swedfund’s broader strategy to deepen our footprint in Zambia and the Southern African region,” she said.

President Hakainde Hichilema has officially launched the $70 million Growth Investment Partners (GIP) initiative, a landmark programme aimed at supporting 150 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the region. Over the next 15 years, the initiative is expected to mobilise $300 million in investm

16/07/2025

LANDMARK INVEST ZAMBIA INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE KICKS OFF

The inaugural Invest Zambia International Conference (IZIC) officially begins today, Wednesday, 16th, and continues until July 18, 2025, in Lusaka.

The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), the lead organiser of the event, says the conference is designed to spotlight Zambia’s investment potential and foster strategic partnerships, deal signings, and knowledge exchange.

ZDA Director General Albert Halwampa has praised President Hakainde Hichilema for his dedication to positioning Zambia as a premier investment destination on the global stage.

ZDA Head of Communication and Public Relations, Kwali Mfuni, revealed that nearly 2,000 delegates have confirmed their participation.

These include high-ranking government officials, international investors, industry captains, diplomats, development partners, and heads of multilateral institutions.

The event will also feature more than 63 exhibitors from key sectors, including energy, mining, government, agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, technology, and infrastructure, who will showcase investment-ready projects and new innovations.

Zambia’s Ambassador to Egypt, who is among the attendees, emphasised the importance of turning investment plans into real progress. He said, "Attending the conference for me is about seeing how this whole arrangement of investments becomes reality on the ground in Zambia.”

The conference represents a significant milestone in Zambia’s efforts to attract sustainable investment and foster long-term economic growth.

The inaugural Invest Zambia International Conference (IZIC) officially begins today, Wednesday, 16th, and continues until July 18, 2025, in Lusaka. The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA), the lead organiser of the event, says the conference is designed to spotlight Zambia’s investment potential and f...

16/07/2025

15/07/2025

UPND CLAIMS BY-ELECTION VICTORIES SHOW PUBLIC CONFIDENCE

The United Party for National Development (UPND) says its recent by-election wins demonstrate strong public support for the government's development agenda.

UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe described the victories as "not just a landslide, it's an earthquake" during a press briefing in Lusaka on Tuesday.

The party won seats in several constituencies including Litawa, Lumezi, Ngwesh ward, Mukema ward, and Tuuwa.

Mr Simuuwe attributed the success to popular programmes such as free education, cash-for-work schemes, and skills training initiatives. He said the government had also made progress in recruiting civil servants, clearing farmer debts, and reducing government debt.

The UPND official challenged opposition parties to move beyond criticism and present substantive policy alternatives.

"We are worried as UPND that the opposition is dying because we need proper checks and balances," Mr Simuuwe said.

He announced that President Hakainde Hichilema was ready to participate in presidential debates, with government ministers also prepared to engage.

Mr Simuuwe also reported on his recent visit to China at the invitation of the Communist Party of China, where discussions focused on relaxed visa conditions, direct flights between the two countries, and energy project implementation.

The United Party for National Development (UPND) says its recent by-election wins demonstrate strong public support for the government's development agenda. UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe described the victories as "not just a landslide, it's an earthquake" during a press briefing in Lu