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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
UPND Government Pledges to Complete Previous Administration’s Projects, Prioritizing National Development
The United Party for National Development (UPND) government has reaffirmed its commitment to completing development projects initiated by previous administrations, emphasizing that governance should prioritize service delivery over political differences. UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe made the announcement during a media briefing in Lusaka, where he outlined the government’s stance on project continuity and highlighted key initiatives currently underway. Simuuwe stressed that abandoning viable projects simply because they were launched by a different administration would be counterproductive. “Governance is not about political rivalry; it is about ensuring that every investment made for the people of Zambia yields tangible benefits,” he said. This approach aligns with President Hakainde Hichilema’s broader agenda of fostering national unity and efficient resource utilization.
The UPND’s position has been welcomed by governance experts and civil society organizations, who argue that completing inherited projects prevents wastage of public funds and ensures sustained development. However, some stakeholders have called for increased transparency in project financing and execution to avoid past pitfalls, such as inflated costs and delays. Among the flagship projects being continued is the Kafulafuta Dam, a major water infrastructure initiative launched under the Patriotic Front (PF) government. Located in the Copperbelt Province, the dam is expected to provide clean drinking water to thousands of households while supporting agricultural and industrial activities. Simuuwe confirmed that the project remains a priority, with the government allocating additional funds to expedite its completion.
To address persistent water shortages in mining towns, the UPND administration has injected funds into Nkana Water and Sanitation Company to replace outdated pipelines, reducing water losses and improving supply reliability, and Mulonga Water and Sanitation Company for the construction of new reservoirs and pumping stations, expanding coverage to underserved areas. These upgrades are critical for communities that have long struggled with erratic water supply, particularly in high-density neighborhoods. Beyond water infrastructure, the UPND government is also advancing several other high-impact projects initiated by past administrations, including the Kafue Bulk Water Project designed to supply over one million Lusaka residents with clean water. This project was a cornerstone of the PF’s urban water security plan, and the UPND has pledged to finalize remaining phases, including pipeline expansions and treatment plant upgrades, to alleviate the capital’s chronic water shortages.
Key road projects, such as the Lusaka-Ndola Dual Carriageway and the Chingola-Solwezi Road, are being prioritized to improve connectivity and boost trade. These highways, once completed, are expected to reduce travel time, enhance road safety, and stimulate economic activity in mining and agricultural regions. Several district hospitals and health posts, including the Mansa General Hospital Modernization Project, are being fast-tracked to improve healthcare access. The UPND has committed to ensuring these facilities are fully operational, addressing gaps in medical service provision.
Economic analyst Dr. Mwaba Mwila praised the government’s stance, stating, “Continuity in development projects is essential for economic stability. Zambia cannot afford to discard half-finished infrastructure due to political transitions.” However, transparency advocates urge stricter oversight. “While completing these projects is commendable, audits must be conducted to ensure value for money and prevent corruption,” said Beatrice Grillo, Executive Director of the Zambian Governance Foundation. The UPND’s approach signals a shift from past practices where projects were often abandoned when new administrations took office. By prioritizing completion, the government aims to maximize returns on public investments and deliver essential services without disruption. As these projects near completion, Zambians will be watching closely to see if the promises translate into improved living standards, particularly in water supply, transportation, and healthcare.
The Nchelenge Magistrate Court has sentenced a 28-year-old man to six months imprisonment with hard labour for slapping another man who touched his wife’s breasts.
Before Resident Magistrate Luckson Mbewe was Pardon Mpundu, who readily pleaded guilty to the offense of assault occasioning actual bodily harm (AOBH), contrary to section 248 of the penal code chapter 87 of the laws of Zambia.
Brief facts in the matter were that on 1st May, 2025 in Nchelenge district, Mpundu assaulted Richard Limbikani thereby causing him actual bodily harm.
State prosecutor, Kennedy Chimbali, narrated before court that on the material day, the duo was at a named bar when they picked a quarrel over Mpundu’s wife.
Mpundu told the court that he was forced to slap Limbikani because he touched his wife’s breasts.
“Your honour, the victim in this matter was touching my wife’s breast, no wonder I fought him,” Mpundu told the court.
In mitigation, Mpundu pleaded with the court for leniency adding that nobody will take care of his wife, who is currently pregnant, if he was given a custodial sentence.
President Hakainde Hichilema has called on all Zambians to be productive in order to promote trade and economic growth in the country.
President Hichilema said government will focus on supporting production by assisting consumers through helping producers.
The President said this today when he officiated at the thanksgiving service for God’s favour, good rain and farming season in the 2024/2025 rain season at the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka.
He thanked farmers across the country for not losing hope even after the drought in the previous rain season.
“If we were all trading and no producers, what would be trading then? So, I want to encourage citizens to produce something, then we will encourage and promote trade because we would have produced,” he said.
The Head of State said the government has learnt many lessons from the drought that the country experienced during the 2023/2024 rain season.
Mr Hichilema said the diversification of energy production, embracing irrigation agriculture and managing farming fields effectively through productivity are some of the lessons learnt from the 2023/2024 rain season.
President Hichilema further urged all Zambians to utilise government programmes and facilities such as the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) and the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) as they are meant for them and the communities they come from.
“In that CDF, there are small amounts for agriculture grants and facilities for the community because CDF is money for the community. It is meant to drill a borehole for a church, an orphanage, a school or a clinic that can utilise the water to grow food to sustain the facility,” he explained.
The President also advised Zambians to reaffirm their trust and hope in God for He has always been faithful to them by providing them with all their needs.
He further thanked God for answering the Zambian people’s prayers for a good rain season and good harvest that the country has experienced in the last farming season.Additionally, President Hichilema called for unity in the country and to lean on the ‘One Zambia, One People motto, adding that the country will achieve more in unity than when divided.
“Let us work as a team, the church does its thing, farmers do their thing, finance people do their thing and by working together, we will deliver for our people and more importantly, let us love each other…love conquers everything,” he added.
He further wished all mothers in the country a happy Mother’s Day, which falls today.
And speaking earlier when giving a homily taken from the Book of Psalms 137 verses 1 to 4, a member of the United Church of Zambia Lusaka Presbytery, Todwell Siame, called on all Zambians to be responsible for the country in order to alleviate the devastating effects of climate change.
Bishop Siame said Zambians should be responsible for their country for it to sustain them as its citizens.
He further urged every farmer in the country not to give up on agriculture but remain hopeful because God answers prayers as he did this farming season.
Meanwhile, National Day of Prayer and Fasting National Chairperson, Venerable Sihubwa, gave a statement of purpose saying the day was special as Zambia chose to be a thankful nation.
Reverend Sihubwa explained that a thanks giving ceremony closes a season and opens a new one.
Rev. Sihubwa has since urged the nation to be thankful noting that criticism kills the spirit of a nation.
He further disclosed that this year’s National Day of Prayer will be held at the Heroes Stadium to celebrate its 10th anniversary since the country started observing it.
Among those in attendance at the service were Vice President Mutale Nalumango and her husband, First Lady Mutinta Hichilema, Cabinet Ministers and the members of the clergy from different church denominations.
Think about it. The biggest economy in the world, the USA, does not give universal free healthcare to its people because they say it’s too expensive for the economy to handle. As great as its economy is, there is not enough wealth to provide free healthcare without incurring a monumental cost. If they did this, it would bring their economy down to its knees because their taxes would have to become too high.
Zambia and many other African countries, on the other hand, promise free healthcare (including free drugs) to their citizens, despite being the poorest countries in the world. How do they manage to do that? The only way is by begging other countries to send them the drugs for free, and even to pay the salaries of their healthcare workers. Besides this, they also have to keep their taxes very high, which makes it even harder for them to create jobs, thus continuing the need for them to remain dependent on aid.
Unfortunately, many African elites who are now saying that Africa should stop receiving this aid and become “self-dependent,” are also the same people who support the costly system of our poor government giving out free things. But if you want free things, where do you expect the money to come from since the taxable productive sector is so small? This is the question that people never think about. They want to have their cake and eat it too.
The argument that there are European countries that manage to do this only betrays ignorance. These European countries first became very wealthy, with a large productive sector, before they started giving out free things to their people, which is why they do not beg other countries for their drugs. On top of this, these countries also spend a lot of money to try to ensure that there is no theft in such systems – money that African countries just don’t have. It is no wonder that even these European countries have been complaining that this system is unsustainable and could push their countries to bankruptcy.
African countries are the least able to survive the destructive costs of this expensive socialist system, but they are the ones who are the most enthusiastic about embracing it. Politicians in government boast about expanding this system, and opposition politicians promise to spend even more. None of them seem to really realize just how poor Zambia is!
The reason I don’t support America ending aid to Zambia is simply because they are the ones who have encouraged and supported this self-destructive system for a long time and they are only walking away after they have helped entrench it into the very DNA of Zambia and other poor countries that they have made dependent on aid.
For Zambia to survive without this aid, it would have to make a radical change both structurally and intellectually. Even the people who are saying we should just stop receiving aid are not prepared to accept that we cannot afford free healthcare or free education or any of these other expensive subsidies.
Neither can we ever manage to stop the thefts happening in these government ministries because the same socialist system keeps increasing poverty, which makes any donated (or tax-collected) money an obvious target for the wide network of thefts. The cost of monitoring and prosecuting these thefts will likely be even higher than the thefts themselves. And even if the US donated money to help our government monitor this aid, that money will also be stolen!
The UPND government should realize that the thefts won’t stop. They may have replaced PF people with their own people, but they can’t replace human nature with angelic nature. If even Mwanawasa himself, the most serious anti-corruption president, failed to stop these thefts, it’s a joke to think that anyone else will stop them. What has to be uprooted is the system itself: stop giving anything for free and turn these hospitals into privately managed for-profit entities. At the same time, radically cut the taxes for all businesses and employees in the country (to single digits), so that true productivity may grow quickly enough for people to have enough money to pay for their own healthcare and education.
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. You can follow him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/chandachisala.
As of May 2025, Zambia has a total of 2,009 registered retail pharmacies (ZAMRA 2025). The recent US embassy report claims that 95% of these pharmacies roughly 1,909 outlets stocked stolen, US-funded life-saving drugs. On the surface, this statistic is alarming. But on closer inspection, it becomes deeply questionable, both in logic and evidence. Aforensic audit involving nearly 2,000 pharmacies assumes that all are operational and fully functional, which is unlikely. Many registered pharmacies may be inactive, non-compliant, or exist only on paper. Conducting such a massive audit without verifying operational status casts doubt on the credibility of the entire premise.
To begin with, we must ask: What are these US-funded life-saving drugs? These are identified as ARVs, TB drugs, and vaccines for under 5. These are not over the counter medications. They are strictly controlled commodities that are rarely, if ever, available in private retail pharmacies.
Which brings us to the next logical question: Who has ever seen ARVs, TB drugs, or under five vaccines sold in a retail pharmacy? For those who work in, own, or frequently visit these pharmacies, the answer is likely the same, almost no one. Speaking from personal experience in over 10 years in the sector, I have encountered only one customer asking for ARVs and even then, it was a specific South African brand not found in the public system.
ARVs, TB drugs, and under-five vaccines are never stocked in general hospital pharmacies either. Instead, they are housed in designated storage and dispensing areas most of which have been built or refurbished by US-funded NGOs. These areas are not only tightly monitored, often with CCTV surveillance, but also operate under strict protocols.
These medications are not accessed through individual prescriptions, but dispensed through SmartCare, a sophisticated real-time inventory and patient monitoring system that is designed to track the distribution and consumption of these drugs, and report that data directly to the donor agencies. Notably, approximately 60% of personnel in ART clinics are funded by the US agencies, further reinforcing the oversight on these commodities.
This raises a critical question: With such an airtight, donor controlled inventory system in place, how could these drugs be seeping into the retail market? It would require a massive, coordinated breach of a system that was purpose built to prevent exactly this kind of leakage. Moreover, if ARVs or TB drugs were indeed being siphoned off on such a large scale, the public health system would inevitably experience shortages.
Yet we have not. In fact, Zambia has never experienced a widespread stockout of ARVs or TB drugs in recent years. On the contrary, the country has made commendable progress, having achieved the ambitious 90-90-90 targets in most provinces: 90% of people with HIV knowing their status, 90% of those diagnosed on ARVs, and 90% of those on treatment achieving viral suppression. This would have been impossible if these drugs were being stolen and sold in private pharmacies, thereby making them inaccessible to the poor and vulnerable populations who rely on free treatment.
We must also consider the timing of this report. Just two months ago, the US abruptly halted its support to Zambia’s health sector a move widely condemned as baseless and harmful. One has to wonder: Is this report an attempt to retroactively justify that decision? Could it be that a reason is now being manufactured to fit an earlier political or diplomatic agenda?
In conclusion, the claims in the US embassy report are riddled with inconsistencies, logical flaws, and a glaring absence of evidence. Given the tight donor controlled drug distribution systems, the lack of public shortages, and Zambia’s continued progress in HIV treatment outcomes, it is difficult to accept that 95% of pharmacies were selling stolen donor drugs. Until a transparent, evidence-based investigation is presented, this report remains highly suspect and deeply troubling.
“I think myself happy, King Agrippa, because today I shall answer for myself before you concerning all the things of which I am accused by the Jews.”
Acts 26:2, NKJV
Friend, after being in prison for two years on false charges, the apostle Paul was brought before King Agrippa for his trial. The first thing Paul said was, “King Agrippa, I think myself happy.” You would think he would see himself as a victim, be bitter and angry. But he shows us a secret of how to overcome all that. He said, “I think myself happy.” He was saying, “I consider myself fortunate to stand before you even though my accusers want me to be put to death.”
You can think yourself depressed, you can think yourself into a bad mood, and you can think yourself a victim. Or you can do as Paul did and say, “Yes, I’ve had a lot of difficulties. I could be sour and live discouraged, but I’m going to think myself happy.” As long as you’re thinking about your hurts, what you didn’t get, how you were left out, you’re going to be discouraged. Don’t replay the loss, the disappointment, or the failure. Start thinking faith-filled, positive, hopeful, uplifting thoughts. That’s what you’re going to draw in.
A Prayer for Today
“Father, thank You that I can set my mind to be happy today and to be my best because You made this day. Thank You that I can keep it set when I meet the challenges of this day that want to push me toward being a victim. I am going to keep thinking faith-filled thoughts that strengthen me within. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”
President Hakainde Hichilema concluded a working tour of the Copperbelt Province with a renewed call for unity, development, and national pride following a series of impactful engagements that highlighted Zambia’s economic ambitions, infrastructure expansion, and social cohesion.
Reviving Luanshya’s Mining Legacy
On Friday, President Hichilema visited the revitalized Luanshya Copper Mines, where he inspected the ongoing dewatering of Shaft 28. The President described the project as “a beacon of hope” for the people of Luanshya, noting that the mine, once fully operational, is expected to generate up to 3,000 direct jobs. This, he emphasized, will not only provide employment but also catalyze economic and social activity in the district.
“Our goal is to achieve an annual copper production of three million metric tonnes. With projects like these, we are confident that Zambia’s economic future is bright,” the President stated.
During a community engagement in Mpatamatu, President Hichilema expressed deep gratitude to the people of Luanshya and Zambia at large for their electoral support in 2021.
“We owe a debt of gratitude to the people of Mpatamatu, Luanshya, and Zambia for placing their trust in us during the 2021 elections. Our unwavering commitment is to work tirelessly to enhance their quality of life,” he said.
He highlighted ongoing government efforts to uplift citizens through free education, the resumption of meal allowances for students, expanded bursary programs, and youth employment opportunities.
“Our vision is clear: to deliver development and advance Luanshya—and Zambia—FORWARD,” President Hichilema emphasized.
Water Security for Masaiti and Beyond
Later that day, President Hichilema officially commissioned the Kafulafuta Water Supply System Project in Masaiti District. The long-delayed project—initially funded by an Exim Bank loan during the previous administration—was stalled due to Zambia’s past debt challenges. Following recent debt restructuring by the government, the project was completed and is set to benefit over 17,000 residents across Ndola, Luanshya, Masaiti, and Mpongwe.
“Access to clean and safe water is a fundamental human right,” the President said. “This project is a testament to our resolve to complete all infrastructure—regardless of when it was started—so long as it benefits our people.”
He added that the Kafulafuta Dam will also support broader economic initiatives such as irrigation and aquaculture. Citizens were further encouraged to obtain National Registration Cards (NRCs) to maintain eligibility for vital services such as FISP, educational bursaries, and employment programs.
In his address, the President reaffirmed the government’s unwavering stance against corruption. “Corruption deprives our citizens of critical resources that should drive our development,” he said, stressing that transparency and accountability remain central pillars of the New Dawn Administration.
On Saturday President Hichilema capped off his tour by attending the 2025 ABSA Cup final at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola. The thrilling match saw Zesco United emerge victorious over Red Arrows, with the President praising both teams for their display of sportsmanship and talent.
“Football brings us together. It transcends political, tribal, and regional divides,” he said. The President also applauded ABSA Bank Zambia for its continued investment in Zambian sports, urging other private sector players to follow suit.
As he concluded the visit and returned to Lusaka, President Hichilema expressed heartfelt appreciation to the people of the Copperbelt for their hospitality.
“Thank you, ba Kopala, for your warm welcome. Together, we are building a Zambia that works for everyone,” he said.
Corruption is thriving on a massive scale under President Hakainde Hichilema. The reason is simple. President Hichilema lacks any serious commitment and the political will to fight corruption in a meaningful way. Any effective or serious fight against corruption requires three crucial elements.
The first is supportive or empowering legislation. There will be no serious fight against corruption in Zambia as long as the law that establishes the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) is not amended to address its longstanding weaknesses. The Anti-Corruption Act is not equipped to fight corruption. It is so flawed that one must be out of one’s mind to accept an appointment to the board because there is nothing serious that they are going to do. The Act provides for the board and the director general to be appointed by the president. This is an anomaly because it makes those in the ACC management feel answerable to the president, not the board. This limitation helps explain why former ACC director general Gilbert Phiri and his successor, Thom Shamakamba, showed contempt for the Musa-Mwenye board because they knew that there was nothing that the board could do to them, even if they failed to discharge their responsibilities. This should not happen. The ACC should be an independent body that must not be under the supervision of the president — himself a prime candidate for high-level corruption.
What is needed is to empower the board to choose the director general and the deputy so that the management officials are answerable to the appointing authority: the board. The board itself should be made answerable to the National Assembly, not to the president. This can only be possible with amendments to the existing law. As it stands, the ACC board has no control over the ACC management. The board can neither discipline nor fire those in the executive leadership. If Hichilema was committed to fighting corruption, the president would have first changed the law to address these structural inadequacies that undermine the work of the board before he appointed a new board in January 2025 to replace the Musa Mwenye-led ACC board that he dissolved in panic after one of his presidential aides is said to have informed him that the anti-graft body was preparing to arrest Solicitor General Marshal Muchende. After all, such a change requires a simple majority in the National Assembly and can easily be passed by ruling party MPs alone. After three and half years in office, and with a sufficient majority in parliament, what excuse does Hichilema have for his failure to enact the necessary changes to the anti-corruption law?
Any president of Zambia who is committed to fighting corruption would also have no problem amending the law to increase the sentences for those convicted of corruption. Currently the law provides for very short sentences for corruption offences, generally ranging from two to five years. The net effect of this lack of stiffer punishments is that potential offenders feel emboldened to engage in acts of corruption because they know that even if they are convicted and sent to jail, it would not be long before they are out to enjoy the loot, stolen from poor Zambians. Again, if Hichilema had the will to fight corruption, the president would have changed the law to ensure that corruption offences attract a life sentence or a minimum of at least 20 years in prison. This would serve as an effective deterrent because potential offenders would know the huge cost to pay for being corrupt. Since Zambia’s experience shows that most of those who engage in high-level corruption are members of the executive, we may understand the reluctance by Hichilema to enact stiffer penalties for corruption as entirely self-serving or deliberate.
The second element of a successful strategy of fighting corruption is the presence in anti-corruption bodies of people with proven integrity. Individuals who are appointed to the ACC board and management positions should be professionals with a clear track record of fighting corruption. This explains why the appointment of Mwenye as ACC board chairperson was met with widespread approval, given his distinguished record of opposition to corruption. What successive Zambian presidents have done is to appoint pliable executive heads of the ACC and seemingly strong-minded individual board members who cannot effectively supervise the pliable heads because of the structural constraints cited earlier. This is the strategy that Hichilema has now perfected. In appointing highly regarded professionals like Mwenye to the ACC board, Hichilema’s objective was never to fight corruption — noticeable evidence suggests that the president retains an extraordinary fear for competent and independent-minded people and has a penchant for surrounding himself with “yes people” — but rather to hoodwink Western actors into believing that he is committed to fighting corruption by hoisting a strong board that is however rendered ineffective by legal constraints and a pliant ACC executive leadership.
This strategy might explain why Hichilema recently appointed Daphne Chabu, a member of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), as the ACC director general while giving a veneer of seriousness to the anti-graft campaign by appointing individuals with generally respectable characters such as governance activists Engwase Mwale and Nalucha Ziba as board members. Until her appointment, Chabu was permanent secretary in the Ministry of Lands. Successive surveys by Transparency International Zambia (TIZ) have shown that the most corrupt ministries in Zambia are health and lands. How does anyone who is serious about fighting corruption appoint a controlling officer from one of the country’s most corrupt ministries — and potentially a corruption suspect herself — to head an anti-corruption body? Given her well known political ties to both Hichilema and the ruling party, can the new ACC director general be expected to prosecute her fellow party members including ministers involved in corruption? Simply put, what anti-corruption credentials does Chabu have that made her a suitable choice for the role she has been assigned?
What is needed for a successful anti-corruption fight, in addition to structural reforms, is having non-partisan individuals with a proven commitment to anti-corruption and moral wealth of character in both the board and the executive roles of the ACC. The best way of finding or recruiting such talent is through an open and transparent system of appointment where vacancies on the ACC board or management are advertised and interested people are invited to apply. This way, only the most qualified, competent professionals, and individuals known to be committed to the fight against corruption will be hired into the commission. For this to happen, the government needs to first create a merit-based system that would provide for formal qualifications and requisite qualities that interested candidates must possess. This approach would allow anti-corruption bodies to fill existing vacancies only after a thorough interview and public vetting process in which the presidency is hardly involved. It is one that I have consistently advocated, even when it comes to the appointment of other public officials such as judges.
Again, if Hichilema had the will and commitment to fighting corruption, he would have first established such a system, as opposed to maintaining the status quo and packing the ACC with his loyalists. It is difficult to know what non-subjective criteria is used to identify the ACC board members and management leaders for appointment. Where, for instance, is the evidence that the individual members who were recently appointed by Hichilema to lead the ACC have, both in their personal and professional lives, the DNA that is required to fight corruption? What track record does retired supreme court judge Evans Hamaundu, who succeeded Mwenye as chairperson of the ACC board, have of fighting corruption? If Hichilema was serious about anti-corruption, he would have considered creating merit-based systems that would ensure that those who end up in bodies such as the ACC represent the best talent available for the roles. There is surely no shortage of competent, impartial, and professional Zambians who can serve both on the ACC board and in the executive.
Any person who agrees to serve on the ACC board, as currently constituted by law and despite their knowledge of the challenges that the Mwenye-led board encountered, is potentially corrupt. This is because they are, in effect, accepting to be drawing public funds in form of allowances for doing nothing meaningful. I know that board members get very little money, but the main issue is the principle, not the amount. How does any self-respecting professional accept an appointment to a role where they know — ignorance is an even more serious defect — that they cannot make any meaningful change because of structural limitations? What exactly are they going to do? The point is that even if the ACC board and management positions are filled with professionals of proven integrity, they cannot do much about the fight against corruption if the law remains unchanged. Anyone who is seriously committed to fighting corruption will first check the enabling law and, once they realise that the law sets them up to fail, respectfully decline the appointment.
The third element of a successful anti-corruption campaign is having a president who shows a clear or demonstrable will to fight past and especially present corruption. Such political will can be demonstrated in several ways. One is to strengthen anti-corruption laws. Two is to deal decisively with the corruption of their officials or associates including those in the inner circle. The other is leading by example. A brief review of Hichilema’s record over the last three and half years shows remarkable failure on all three examples. The president has not initiated any meaningful changes to the Anti-Corruption Act. Neither has he sought to align the Act with Article 216 of Zambia’s Constitution that provides for the guiding principles relating to commissions:
“A commission shall —
(a) be subject only to this Constitution and the law;
(b) be independent and not be subject to the control of a person or an authority in the performance of its functions;
(c) act with dignity, professionalism, propriety and integrity;
(d) be non-partisan; and
(e) be impartial in the exercise of its authority.”
Since the Anti-Corruption Act was enacted before the 2016 constitutional amendment, it should have been amended to bring it in line with these constitutional principles. Hichilema has failed to preside over such changes while some of the officials he has appointed to executive roles in the ACC have, in subordinating themselves to his authority and acting in a manner that conveys partisanship or partiality, shown a clear lack of respect for these constitutional principles.
Furthermore, Hichilema has failed to lead the anti-corruption fight using personal examples. The president, who boasts of extensive business interests in several sectors of Zambia’s economy, has refused to publicly declare his assets and liabilities as a show of his commitment to transparency and accountability. This makes it difficult to work out to what extent his policies are benefiting companies in which he has an interest. Hichilema and his supporters like arguing that there is no law that requires him to publish their declarations, but as the US ambassador to Zambia, Michael Gonzales, correctly noted recently, “Leadership is not about only doing the bare minimum that is absolutely required by law, but going beyond and doing what is right and needed to lead and shape reforms.” In any case, if Hichilema truly has the political will to fight corruption, and after three and half years in office, what exactly has stopped his administration from passing a law that would make assets declaration and publication — both for his office and other senior government officials — an annual requirement?
Hichilema has also shown an incriminating reluctance to dismiss ministers and other senior government officials accused of involvement in corruption. The recent decision by the United States to cut aid to Zambia’s health sector due to systematic theft of donated drugs and medical supplies does not come as a surprise. It is a culmination of Hichilema’s cavalier attitude towards corruption and his tolerance of high-level government officials who are involved in corruption. Recently, after Hichilema, having previously sold the country’s food reserves left by his predecessor, embarked on begging assignments, donors gave Zambia money to buy food and address the adverse effects of drought on food security. Hichilema’s officials bought maize from Tanzania at 40 percent more than the actual price. No senior government official has been dismissed from their position for this blatant corruption.
There are also several credible reports of ministers and other public officials who buy votes or use government resources to campaign for the ruling party in parliamentary or ward level by-elections. These include reports from civil society organisations such as TIZ and the Christian Churches Monitoring Group. None of the errant senior officials serving in Hichilema’s administration have to date been dismissed from their roles or prosecuted for this blatant abuse of authority of office — an offence under the Anti-Corruption Act. As Gonzales argued, “There must be consequences for individuals who abuse their public positions for personal gain. They must lose their jobs, their assets, and/or their freedom. The costs of corruption must exceed the financial gain if we are going to stem corrupt practices.”
Given this abbreviated history of Hichilema’s poor record on fighting corruption including in his government, it is fair to conclude that Hichilema is himself potentially corrupt. If there is anything that Hichilema has done well over the last three and half years, it is to throw away any pretence that he is serious about the fight against corruption. I just wish the president could go a step further and change the name of the Anti-Corruption Commission to the more appropriate Pro-Corruption Commission (PCC).
I repeat: Hichilema lacks serious or demonstrable political will to fight corruption. His strategy on this subject appears to be covering his tracks and hiding corruption. The president knows voters despise graft — a key reason they ejected his predecessor — and he is determined to prevent not so much corruption itself but the perception of it under his administration or among his senior officials. I made this point as early as two years ago when I noted that Hichilema’s anti-corruption fight was nothing but a sham. See here: https://africanarguments.org/2023/06/zambia-president-hichilema-five-point-plan-stay-power/…. At the time, not many people paid attention, perhaps because they wanted to give the President more time, while his vociferous supporters such as University of Zambia law lecturer O’Brien Kaaba and Privilege Hang’angu, a Senior Policy Advisor at the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, publicly rose – as they have repeatedly done to my criticism of Hichilema’s leadership actions – to his defence. See here: https://africanarguments.org/2023/06/the-zambia-president-hichilema-desperate-plan-to-stay-in-power-a-response-sishuwa/…
“Jesus wept.” — John 11:35
The shortest verse in the Bible. Yet, behind its brevity lies a depth of sorrow too heavy for words. Yesterday, Zambia lived its own version of that verse.
At a solemn press briefing in Lusaka, U.S. Ambassador to Zambia, Michael Gonzales, stood not just as a diplomat, but as a witness to a betrayal too painful to bear. As he announced the United States’ decision to slash K1.4 billion (US$50 million) worth of medical aid to Zambia, his eyes welled with tears. The image of a mzungu—a white man—shedding tears for Zambia became a piercing symbol of just how far we have fallen. Mzungu alila. A white person has cried.
And indeed, so should we all.
The aid cuts are not a matter of politics. They are about life and death. For the thousands living with HIV, battling tuberculosis, or fighting off malaria, this announcement means medicine shelves will run empty, clinics will turn away patients, and lives that could have been saved will be quietly lost in silence.
But these tears were not sudden. Ambassador Gonzales explained that since 2021, the U.S. government had uncovered massive theft in Zambia’s public health supply chain. Over 2,000 pharmacies were investigated—95% were selling stolen medical supplies. Nearly half of those stolen supplies had been donated by the American people, meant to be given freely to Zambians in need. The response from authorities? Silence, cover-ups, and token arrests of low-level individuals, while the real perpetrators remained protected.
How did we come to this? How did a nation that once stood as a beacon of democracy and hope become a place where even medicine for the dying is stolen for profit?
This is not just a funding crisis—it is a moral crisis. And the consequences will be devastating:
• Fewer antiretroviral drugs for HIV patients.
• Interrupted treatments for tuberculosis and malaria.
• A crippled healthcare system pushed further to its knees.
• A broken trust between Zambia and one of its longest-standing development partners.
Ambassador Gonzales’ tear was not just for stolen medicine—it was for stolen integrity, stolen lives, and a stolen future.
Now, Zambia must decide whether that tear will be ignored—or whether it will become the spark of reckoning and reform. Will we allow this to be remembered as the shortest day in our nation’s history, or the turning point?
The world is watching.
And Heaven, too, has already wept.
Keith Mweemba has been elected as the new Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) president after securing 45 votes during the reconvened elective Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Kabwe on Friday.
The Lusaka-based lawyer will commence his four-year term from 2025 to 2029, succeeding Andrew Kamanga, who led FAZ from 2016 to 2025.
Mweemba beat a field of four other contenders, with incumbent Kamanga polling 20 votes, former FAZ General Secretary Adrian Kashala finishing with 17 votes, while Francis Hafwiti and Emmanuel Munaile failed to register a vote.
The elections, which were the only agenda item on the day as unanimously agreed by the Congress, were conducted under the supervision of a FIFA, CAF and COSAFA delegation led by FIFA’s Senior Manager for Member Associations Governance, Ahmed Harraz.
In the Vice Presidential race, the position will be decided by a runoff later today after none of the three candidates secured the required 50 percent plus one vote.
Incumbent Justin Mumba received 41 votes, while Mutale N’gandu came close with 40 votes. Christopher Kasale polled one vote, and will not proceed to the second round.
Meanwhile, Col. Priscilla Katoba was ratified as the FAZ Women’s National Representative, having gone unopposed. Her nomination was proposed by Green Buffaloes Women FC and seconded by FC MUZA.
Every year, the world celebrates World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) to raise awareness about birds and the plight they face while migrating along routes known as flyways. Annually, millions of birds undertake the world’s longest and largest migrations, traveling thousands of kilometres, traversing continents in search of breeding, feeding and resting grounds. During migration, birds play key roles in the environment including controlling pests, pollinating the crops humans depend on for food,and providing economic benefits through bird watching.
This year’s WMBD theme Creating Bird-friendly Cities and Communities highlights the need for healthy coexistence between birds and humans, in the face of expanding urban developments, made worse by the changing climate. Birds are key indicators of environmental health, which makes them global barometers for assessing human impacts on ecosystems. Rapid urbanization, experienced in Africa and elsewhere poses a significant risk to birds and biodiversity. Many at times, these developments take place without careful consideration of the bird populations needs, thus damaging their habitats. Habitat disruption also creates opportunities for invasive alien species to thrive, consequently affecting ecosystems.
According to a 2024 study, urbanization has led to a decrease in the variety of birds species in addition to shrinking of their roles in the ecosystem. In contrast, rural or less developed areas support a wider diversity of bird species. Further, the study noted that urbanization is driving out specialized species, despite the critical role played by these species in maintaining a healthy and balanced environment.
Considering this, there are a number of measures that can be taken in urban areas to ensure that migratory birds are protected. Critical sites like grasslands and wetlands which migratory birds depend on are under threat, thus developing green spaces by planting native trees and shrubs e.g.parks and creating urban wetlands can provide safes places for birds.Collisions with glass buildings is another major cause of bird mortality, resulting in the deaths of millions of birds annually. Use of bird-friendly glass is critical in reducing bird mortalities. Bird friendly glass incorporates patterns or designs that help birds detect the glass as a barrier, thus minimizing collisions.
Migratory birds rely on natural light along their migration routes. Light pollution can interfere with the natural environment adversely impacting birds and other species. Many migratory birds,especially those travelling at night, fly over areas of intense urban development where they experience high levels of artificial light, which may impact migration timing and other seasonal behavior. For instance, birds may misinterpret artificial light at night as a longer period of daylight and begin migration earlier than species not exposed to artificial light. This migration mistiming means that the birds end up using up their energy reserves, putting them at risk of exhaustion,collision with buildings and other infrastructure and predation among others. This can be tackled through reducing light emission by dimming or turning off unnecessary lights, avoiding high-intensity lighting, or using light shielding among other measures.
Invasive species including cats, rats, and plants among others, pose significant threats to migratory birds through disrupting ecosystems, causing habitat loss and increasing predation and food competition. Rodents including rats and mice negatively impact seabird colonies including migratory species, preying on eggs. chicks and adults, ultimately leading to population declines or even local extinctions. Further, these invasive species compete with birds for food and nesting sites. Thus, it is
vital to put in place effective programs that minimise the effect of these species on migratory bird populations.
Integrating biodiversity conservation into urban planning, protecting green spaces, and promoting wildlife friendly policies is imperative for protection of ecosystems that sustain biodiversity and human life. As we mark World Migratory Bird Day, let us remember that building bird friendly cities and communities is a shared responsibility, and we all can make a difference.
By Alex Ngari, Migratory Birds & Flyways Programme Manager for Africa, BirdLife International
Imagine we are at the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic and the United States decides to donate vaccines and masks to Zambia, but half of these get stolen by people at the Ministry of Health so that they can sell them to the public secretly. Would it make sense for the US to say “we won’t send you any more COVID vaccines and life-saving masks any more”? This would be a strange decision because many more lives would be lost without such assistance, even if it is tainted by corruption and theft.
That imaginary situation is exactly identical to the recent shocking decision by the US to withhold medical assistance to Zambia without warning. Yes, there is rampant theft involved in the medical aid “business,” but is withholding such aid the most practical solution? Surely there are other ways the US can impose accountability measures on the Zambian government without endangering the lives of so many people who are dependent on this assistance.
Personally, I am ultimately against the existence of all such aid because it makes poor countries too dependent on the discretion of the benefactor. It is risky to put the health of your people at the mercy of a foreign government, and the Zambian government should find a way of weaning the country from all such dependence. But it can only be done after finding self-sustaining alternatives to the status quo. It is therefore quite inhumane for the US to withdraw such aid before they could first ensure that the country they have helped become dependent on them finds another way to provide healthcare to its people. It doesn’t take one day to build a new system of health provision if your entire healthcare infrastructure was built on the promise of aid.
The bottom line is that lives are being saved by these donations even when theft is involved in the process, just as vaccines or masks were saving lives even if crooked middlemen were no doubt involved in their distribution. This does not mean we are defending the evil and greedy thefts at the ministry of health; it only means we encourage a more humane solution that considers the risks of instant withdrawal.
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. You can follow him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/chandachisala.
In Zambian politics, memory is fragile. To enter the corridors of power means leaving your convictions at the door. One day, a man stands tall on principle; the next, he’s bowing at the altar of convenience. And few recent conversions have been as swift—or as sorrowful—as that of Dr. Elias Munshya.
Once a bold and eloquent voice against injustice, Munshya earned respect for his incisive commentary while studying in the United States. He criticized the Lungu regime with courage, drawing on legal acumen and moral clarity. He even cited my own work, showing the intellectual independence that once defined his public presence.
Then, his phone rang from the Plot One.
“Dr. Elias. This is President Hakainde Hichilema. You are appointed Zambia’s High Commissioner to Australia.”
Munshya’s once prophetic voice first softened, then fell silent—only to reappear, oddly upbeat and devoutly loyal to the god he now serves. Like Pilato before him, he traded in his prophetic independence for the purse. But at what cost?
I don’t believe every public servant should become a sycophant. It is possible to serve and still speak the truth to power. But Munshya has chosen the path of complicity, not conscience. His defense of the widely criticized Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act—rebranded under UPND as a mere “improvement”—reeks of hypocrisy and shame. This is the same law Hichilema once passionately opposed.
Even more disconcerting is Munshya’s endorsement of constitutional amendments and the controversial delimitation of constituencies—moves that Hichilema, not long ago, condemned as anti-democratic. The President even quoted the Holy Bible to justify his opposition. Lungu listened and didn’t do it. But why is HH so busy trying to do it? Can Munshya answer us? Seriously, I wonder if Munshya’s legal and theological training failed him, or only suppressed to impress his god.
As both lawyer and theologian, Munshya should know better. Instead, his recent online appearances veer into the surreal. In one video, with an unnerving smile, he claims to be “hated” by PF loyalists—wearing their scorn like a crown. But this isn’t hatred; it’s heartbreak. The disappointment in his Facebook comments is palpable. People aren’t angry because he’s changed roles. They’re grieving because he has lost his ubuntu.
He boasts about falling fuel prices and a strengthening kwacha, but conveniently ignores the full picture. The dollar is wobbling under global pressures, and the Trump-era tariffs have shaken markets far beyond Zambia’s influence. And what about the $20 million in drought relief that vanished without a trace? Or the $3 billion in corruption losses recently flagged by the U.S. Ambassador? On these matters, Munshya is suspiciously silent.
Of course, a diplomat lives off government allowances. Silence can be bought—but not dignity and decency. The people see through it. They know when a man has gone from advocate to apologist. They can equally tell when a sharp mind has dulled into a political mouthpiece of useless propaganda. And they mourn the decency that was lost in the trade.
I don’t think Dr. Munshya isn’t just defending Hichilema’s politics, he’s auditioning for him. Whether he’s angling for a cabinet post or praying for a political resurrection, the performance is in full swing. We can all see it.
But there is something every politician should remember–there is life after politics. Sadly, dignity and decency, once traded, can hardly be reclaimed. In politics, after the applause fades and the titles vanish, it won’t be party loyalists who write your legacy, but the people who remember who you used to be.
I pray Amb. Elias Munshya still has a chance to reclaim that man. But for now, all I can pray is, God help him. God help me too.
Kapya Kaoma
Renowned entrepreneur, educator, and innovator to lead three impactful initiatives — business education, responsible gaming, and road safety!
International betting company 1xBet proudly announces the appointment of Suzyo Shawa, CEO and founder of Magnate, as its official brand ambassador in Zambia. The announcement was made at a press conference in Lusaka, where the company unveiled three collaborative initiatives with Magnate aimed at supporting youth and promoting responsible betting in society.
Magnate is a well-known entrepreneur, UNZA lecturer, and digital expert whose experience and charisma will be key in driving the brand’s social projects forward. “Becoming a brand ambassador is not just a title; it’s a deepening of a relationship built on trust, shared values, and a common mission,” said Magnate during his speech. “These projects are not just about talk — they’re about real action, real impact, and real change.”
1xBet x Magnate: A Partnership for Change
By combining Magnate’s expertise in education, entrepreneurship, and media with 1xBet’s mission to support local communities, the brand is launching three social projects focused on Zambia’s key areas: education, responsible betting, and road safety.
1xBusinessHub: A Business School for Youth
This educational initiative for young entrepreneurs featuresMagnate as the main lecturer and mentor. The program includes:
• Three lectures covering the basics of business, finance, and affiliate marketing;
• A special session on betting basics and responsible gaming;
• An online version of the course available to all registered users.
Upon completion, participants will submit their business plans. The top three will pitch their ideas live to a jury led by Magnate. The winner receives a grant to launch their project — a real chance to turn ideas into reality.
“I know what it’s like to start from zero. And I know how much it means to have someone believe in your potential,” emphasizes the new 1xBet ambassador.
1xBalance: Responsible Gaming Campaign
Together with Magnate, the brand is launching a campaign to promote responsible betting, featuring:
• Magnate’s video tips on bankroll management and betting strategies;
• Live streams discussing betting and principles of healthy play;
• An online quiz to test knowledge of responsible gaming rules;
• A social media challenge and content series under the hashtag #1xBalance.
The goal is not only to inform but to cultivate a new culture of safe, risk-free gaming.
“Freedom means choice — but choice should be informed. We want betting to stay fun, safe, and smart,” says Magnate.
Safety on the Road: A Culture of Driving Responsibility
1xBet and Magnate join forces to promote responsible road behavior through the Safety on the Road campaign. This initiative targets all road users — from drivers to pedestrians — with the aim of making Zambia’s roads safer for everyone.
Magnate actively supports the mission:
“Every day, we face risks on the roads. Through media, through public events, through personal example — I want to be part of the solution.”
As project ambassador, Magnate will take part in:
• Three TV segments addressing road safety and infrastructure;
• Masterclasses and “road-talks” for drivers — practical sessions on real-life road scenarios;
• A video tour with Magnate behind the wheel, sharing his perspective on road safety;
• A night roadshow as the campaign’s grand finale and a public call to action.
Each project will include educational media coverage, a dedicated website section, social media support, and integration with local influencers and media outlets.
“This is more than just a partnership. It’s an opportunity to do something meaningful together with a brand that genuinely cares about people,” says Magnate.
1xBet = Responsible Gaming, Responsible Driving, and Responsible Education
1xBet has long been known as a brand that supports local initiatives and invests in societal development. Its partnership with Magnate goes beyond traditional ambassadorship — it’s a strategic collaboration to elevate financial, educational, and social awareness in Zambia.
“There’s a lot of work ahead — but I’m ready. And I know that together, we’re going to do something truly valuable for Zambia.”
1xBet continues to deliver social messages through innovative formats: live streams, educational platforms, media projects, and offline events. In 2025, the brand — alongside Magnate — will focus on responsibility, progress, and meaningful development.
Stay tuned to 1xBet Zambia’s social media and official website for more updates.
In betting, the concept of “bankroll” refers to a specific amount of money
allocated for betting. It’s not your salary or savings, but rather funds set aside for
entertainment. It is a separate gaming budget that allows you to play comfortably
and enjoyably, without feeling stressed.
Such clear financial boundaries help avoid impulsive decisions and increase the
game quality. Bankroll keeps your funds under control – it’s a tool for a conscious
approach that makes the game a part of life, not the other way around.
How to set your ideal bankroll?
The main rule: use only money that is not needed for basic expenses. Betting is
entertainment, not a guaranteed source of income.
Make a monthly budget
Subtract mandatory expenses (rent, food, transportation)
Divide the rest: 10–15% – this is your “comfort zone” for the game
Tip: Keep track of your spending in a spreadsheet or app — it will help you better
understand your habits.
Formulas that work
Bankroll formula:
Bankroll = 10% of free income
For example, if you have 5,000 available, you allocate 500 — this is a safe amount
for betting.
Betting formula:
Bet = 1–5% of bankroll
With a bankroll of 500, it is wise to bet 5–25. It allows you to play longer and more
confidently.
How to adapt bankroll to your playing style?
Flat is a stable strategy where each bet is the same (for example, 3% of the
bankroll).
Martingale is a strategy with increased risk. It requires deep understanding and
a careful approach.
Long-term bets – reserve part of the bankroll, as the funds do not return
immediately.
How to control your bankroll every day?
Create a separate wallet for the game Record all bets – manually or in special apps
Keep your own statistics and analyze the results every week
Use the self-control tools available on modern platforms, including spending
limits and viewing betting history.
1xBet offers many convenient features and tools for self-monitoring and analysis.
The brand is currently conducting an educational project, 1xBalance, on
responsible betting, which helps players better understand their habits and maintain
a healthy balance between gaming and life.
Educational initiatives: 1xBet supports responsible gaming
A smart game is a style that players worldwide strive for. As a socially responsible
brand, 1xBet is implementing the #1xBalance project to help users better
understand themselves and play consciously.
An interactive test will help assess the level of self-control
Educational materials teach how to manage a budget and avoid mistakes
SMM campaign delivers messages through advice, stories, and experiences of
other players
Visual formats (infographics, videos, posters) – make the topic accessible and
understandable
Responsible betting is not about restrictions, it’s about freedom. The freedom to
play confidently, knowing your limits.
Bankroll is a skill that brings pleasure
Bankroll is not just about numbers; it’s also about mental discipline. The sooner
you build it, the more comfortable and positive your game will be.
Join the #1xBalance initiative and follow the brand on its social media. Play
responsibly with 1xBet!
