The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) says Zambia’s capital markets recorded strong growth during the first quarter of 2026, driven by improved macroeconomic conditions, increased investor confidence and growing market participation.
Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka today, SEC Director of Enforcement and Legal Services, Diana Sichone, said the positive performance reflects continued progress under the Capital Markets Master Plan.
Mrs Sichone said the country’s economic environment improved significantly during the quarter, with inflation declining from 11.2 percent to 7.1 percent, while the Kwacha appreciated by about 13.3 percent against the United States Dollars.
She noted that the Bank of Zambia’s decision to reduce the monetary policy rate to 13.5 percent also contributed to increased investor confidence and heightened activity in the capital markets.
Mrs Sichone said the equity market remained the strongest-performing segment, with the Lusaka Securities Exchange (LuSE) All Share Index rising by 5.29 percent to close at 27,289 points.
She disclosed that market capitalization increased from K330 billion to K342 billion, while the number of investors in the equities market grew by 11 percent from approximately 83,000 to 92,000 investors.
Mrs Sichone attributed the growth to strong performances by listed companies such as Zanaco, ZAFFICO, Bata, Airtel Zambia and Zambia Sugar.
She added that Zambia Sugar became the third listed company on the LuSE to surpass a market capitalization of one billion United States Dollars.
Meanwhile, total savings mobilised through the capital markets increased to approximately K350 billion during the first quarter from K340 billion recorded in the previous quarter.
Mrs Sichone further said the Commission continued implementing financial literacy programmes in Chipata and Mongu to enhance public understanding of investing and capital markets.
Speaking at the same event, SEC Assistant Director for Policy and Market Development, Mubanga Kondolo Jr said improved economic conditions have created a supportive environment for capital markets and reduced the cost of raising capital for businesses.
Mr Kondolo noted that a stable macroeconomic environment enables companies to access affordable financing through the capital markets, thereby supporting business growth and economic development.
He explained that the Commission’s periodic media briefings are aimed at highlighting key developments in the capital markets sector and raising public awareness on available investment opportunities.
Records are going to fall everywhere till the election
The reality will surface along with all the excuse one could think of
Meanwhile peoples pockets are going in the opposite direction
Proper gandering. Singing only the song’s chorus because it is easier to hear than the nitty gritty