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United Party for National Development (UPND) deputy spokesperson Elvis Nkandu says he is confident the ruling party will secure a second term in the August 2026 general elections, citing what he described as the fulfilment of 80 percent of its 2021 campaign promises.

Zambians are expected to go to the polls in August, with the UPND seeking a fresh mandate after coming into power in 2021, when it defeated the Patriotic Front (PF).

Mr. Nkandu, who also serves as Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, said voters should assess the ruling party based on the commitments it made when it formed government.

“We need to be judged on the promises we made to our people. A lot of the promises that were made in 2021 have been fulfilled. That is how you judge whether a political party has performed or not,” Mr. Nkandu said.

Mr. Nkandu stated that government had achieved about 80 percent of its pledges.

“We said we were going to enhance the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), and we have done that. We said we were going to introduce free education, and it has been done. We said we were going to pay retirees, and it has been done,” he said.

He acknowledged that not all promises had been fully implemented but emphasized that significant progress had been made.

“I am not saying we have done everything 100 percent. We need to continue working hard so that even what we have not yet done can be completed. But I believe that 80 percent of what we promised our people has been fulfilled, and that is a distinction,” Mr. Nkandu said.

The UPND deputy spokesperson further said government had grown the economy from a negative growth rate of 2.5 percent to about five percent and appealed to Zambians to give the ruling party more time to consolidate its efforts.

“My appeal to the people of Zambia is to give us time. We know where we are taking this country. There is a lot that we have done,” he said.

Mr. Nkandu added that government was working round the clock to reduce the cost of living and improve the welfare of citizens.

Livingstone Mayor Returns to Court as Judgment Day Arrives

General News

Guest Editor

February 2, 2026

Livingstone Mayor Returns to Court as Judgment Day Arrives

Livingstone Mayor Constance Muleabai is today expected to return to the Livingstone Magistrates’ Court, where judgment is finally set to be delivered in a long-running corruption case involving K180,000.

The matter comes after weeks of delays, with the ruling having failed to proceed on two previous occasions. Judgment was initially scheduled to be delivered by Resident Magistrate Kalifano Manyepa and later by Senior Resident Magistrate Trevor Kasanda, who was unable to travel to Livingstone at the time.

Senior Resident Magistrate Kasanda is now expected to preside over the case today, bringing to an end months of anticipation in one of Livingstone’s most closely followed court proceedings.

Mayor Muleabai has been on trial over allegations that between August and September 2023, she solicited K120,000 and later received K180,000 from businessman Mark Gabites. The prosecution alleges that the money was meant to induce the mayor to facilitate a 100 percent remission of property rates owed to the Livingstone City Council by Zamnuka Farming Limited.

Earlier in the proceedings, Magistrate Kasanda ruled that the State had established a prima facie case, meaning there was sufficient evidence for the mayor to be placed on her defence.

Muleabai, however, has consistently denied the allegations. In her defence, she admitted knowing one of the witnesses, Monde Sumbwa, describing their families as long-time friends, but rejected claims that she worked with Sumbwa or anyone else to obtain the alleged gratification. She has maintained that she neither solicited nor received the money in question.

With judgment expected today, residents of Livingstone and the wider public are keenly watching to see whether the mayor will be acquitted or face legal consequences after nearly a year of court proceedings.

Chamber welcomes Army intervention at Kikonge mine

General News

Guest Editor

February 2, 2026

Chamber welcomes Army intervention at Kikonge mine

North-Western Province Chamber of Commerce and Industry president, Amos Kapi, has welcomed government’s move through the Zambia Army to restore order at Kikonge gold mine in Mufumbwe District.

Mr Kapi said while some informal enterprises may experience temporary setbacks following the clampdown on illegal miners, the broader economic and social benefits far outweigh the short-lived disruptions.

He explained that the continued presence of illegal miners was linked to violent, illicit and uncontrolled activities that undermine public safety, law and order and sustainable development.

Mr Kapi added that their removal will help curb lawlessness, restore stability and promote formal economic growth while attracting credible investment to the province.

Mr Kapi further noted that the operation will strengthen government oversight, improve compliance with mining regulations, and safeguard national resources.

He stressed that illegal mining has deprived the government of much-needed revenue as such activities fall outside the tax net.

Meanwhile, Mufumbwe Youth Movement chairperson, Silverster Lumbwe , also welcomed the intervention, stating that it will restore order and curb illicit behaviour at the site.

Mr Lumbwe explained that local youths, despite forming cooperatives and receiving artisanal mining licences, have been unable to benefit due to lawlessness by illegal miners.

He thanked the Zambia Army for conducting the operation peacefully without injuries or loss of life.

And Solwezi-based youth, John Kimba, described the removal of illegal miners as a decisive and commendable intervention.

He said illegal mining deprives the country of substantial revenue, undermines lawful economic activities and fuels illicit trade.

Mr Kimba added that the area had attracted illegal immigrants from neighbouring countries, worsening the situation and commended government’s timely efforts to curb the vice.

Stronger Kwacha delivers fuel price relief

Feature Economy

Guest Editor

February 2, 2026

Stronger Kwacha delivers fuel price relief

A Lusaka based Economist has attributed the reduction of pump prices for February to stronger Zambian Kwacha against the dollar, combined with easing international oil prices.

Mr Kelvin Chisanga explained that the reduction follows the Kwacha appreciation of over 10 percent against the US dollar in January 2026, which significantly lowered the landed cost of imported petroleum products, alongside softer global oil prices.

In a statement made available to the media, Mr Chisanga said the outcome deeply demonstrates the effectiveness of Zambia’s market-based fuel pricing mechanism, which transparently links domestic prices to external cost drivers.

He added that the lower fuel prices are disinflationary, easing transport and logistics costs and helping to moderate non-food inflation.

“Households benefit through reduced transport expenses, while businesses particularly in transport, agriculture, mining and manufacturing gain from lower operating costs and improved margins,” Mr Chisanga said.

Mr Chisanga observed that the reductions were achieved in previous months without fuel subsidies, reinforcing fiscal discipline and policy credibility.

He however indicated that sustained stability will depend on exchange rate strength, foreign exchange liquidity and continued policy interventions as well as continuous investment in fuel supply infrastructure.

Effective 1 February 2026, petrol will be selling at K27.88 per litre, down from K29.92, diesel at K24.50 per litre, from K25.11, kerosene at K22.24 per litre, from K23.88, while Jet A-1 is priced at K23.80 per litre, down from K25.53.

Chitimukulu congratulates UPND in Kasama Mayoral win

Feature Rural News

Guest Editor

February 2, 2026

Chitimukulu congratulates UPND in Kasama Mayoral win

Paramount Chief Chitimukulu of the Bemba has congratulated the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) on winning the Kasama mayoral by-election, describing the electoral process as a sign of political maturity.

Paramount Chief Chitimukulu made the remarks when Presidential Advisor on Political Affairs, Levy Ngoma, paid a courtesy call at his palace in Mungwi to introduce the newly elected Kasama Mayor, Bywell Simposya.

The Mwinelubemba also expressed happiness with the peaceful nature of campaigns and described the just ended electoral process as a sign of political maturity.

“We appreciate the way the elections were conducted. It is showing maturity. Personally, I must congratulate the UPND for scooping the position,” the Mwinelubemba said.

He expressed confidence in Mayor Simposya’s leadership.

“He is going to deliver. I have interacted with him on a number of occasions. He has brilliant ideas,” the chief said.

Paramount Chief Chitimukulu also thanked President Hakainde Hichilema for his continued support, especially during his bereavement following the death of his wife.

The traditional leader further highlighted challenges of traffic congestion and overcrowding in Kasama that require urgent attention.

Earlier, Mr Ngoma explained that he had been sent by President Hichilema to bid farewell before returning to Lusaka and to introduce the new mayor.

Mr Ngoma commended the Paramount Chief for encouraging political parties to conduct peaceful campaigns, noting that players adhered to his call without resorting to insults or negative incidents.

Mr Ngoma also conveyed the President’s appreciation for the hard work of farmers in Northern Province, revealing that the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) purchased a significant portion of maize from the region.

“Government had budgeted for 500,000 metric tonnes but ended up purchasing about 2 million metric tonnes. This shows how much farmers produced,” he said,

He also acknowledged delays in payments and assured improvements in the system.

Govt orders quick fix on vandalised Mkushi-Serenje road

Feature Rural News

Guest Editor

February 2, 2026

Govt orders quick fix on vandalised Mkushi-Serenje road

Central Province Permanent Secretary, Milner Mwankampwe, has directed that remedial works on the vandalised section of the Mkushi-Serenje road be completed within one and a half days to ease traffic congestion.

Dr. Mwankampwe instructed the Road Development Agency (RDA), Zambia National Service (ZNS) and Mkushi Town Council to work together to ensure inconveniences to motorists are minimized.

He noted that the disruption has delayed travel, affected trade and hindered access to services and socio-economic activities.

“We need to create passage on either side of the road. I’m not going anywhere until this traffic is cleared,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary, who is camped at the site 30 kilometres from Mkushi town on one of the country’s busiest trunk roads, described the vandalism of culverts as sabotage and warned that perpetrators will be held accountable.

“We will be vigilant and ensure that anyone found involved in this act of sabotage is brought to book,” he added.

And RDA Regional Engineer, Main Chama, said the Agency will replace the 10 stolen Armco pipes with concrete culverts, explaining that vandals had unscrewed bolts to remove the pipes.

Meanwhile, Mkushi District Commissioner, Jonathan Kapungwe, said traffic police officers were immediately dispatched to the area to control congestion following the incident.

Nine-year-old girl drowns in Lumezi

Feature Rural News

Guest Editor

February 2, 2026

A nine-year-old girl of Chilulo Village in Mwanya Chiefdom, Lumezi District, Eastern Province, has drowned in Katondolo River.

Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer, Robertson Mweemba, confirmed the incident to the media, which was reported by the girl’s grandfather, 60-year-old Keston Njobvu.

The juvenile, a Grade Three pupil, had gone out to play with three friends on January 31, 2026, around 16:00 hours.

Mr Mweemba said when she failed to return home by 18:00 hours, her parents began searching and that at about 19:00 hours, one of her friends revealed that the group had gone swimming at Katondolo River, where the girl drowned.

He explained that community members joined the search and managed to retrieve her body at around 21:30 hours.

The matter was reported to Mwase Waminga Police Post.

Police inspected the body and found no physical injuries, ruling out foul play.

The body has since been handed over to relatives for burial.

Veep expected in Dubai for World Government Summit

Feature General

Guest Editor

February 2, 2026

Veep expected in Dubai for World Government Summit

Vice President Mutale-Nalumango has left the country for Dubai, United Arab Emirates to attend the World Government Summit.

According to a statement issued to the media by the Press Aide to the Vice President, Njenje Chizu, Mrs Nalumango left the country yesterday Sunday February 1 2026.

Mr Chizu explained that the Summit will be held from February 3rd to 5th, 2026, under the theme, ‘Shaping Future Governments’.

“This high-level global platform convenes leaders and experts to deliberate on emerging governance models and innovative approaches to public administration,” he said.

He added that this year’s Summit has drawn an unprecedented participation of over 35 Heads of State, 150 Governments and 500 Ministers, with the discussions centred on international cooperation, technological advancement, sustainability and economic growth.

Mr Chizu therefore indicated that the Vice Presidents participation reaffirms Zambia’s dedication to engaging with international partners, advancing national development priorities and contributing to global dialogue on effective governance.

According to the United Arab Emirates authorities, the 2026 edition is projected to be the largest and most diverse gathering in the Summit’s history, underscoring its growing significance on the global stage.

Ghanaian President to visit Zambia

Feature General

Guest Editor

February 2, 2026

Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Rodney Sikumba has announced that President of the Republic of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama will undertake a State Visit to the Republic of Zambia from February 4^th to 6^th , 2026, at the invitation of Mr Hakainde Hichilema.

According to a press statement issued to the media in Lusaka today, Mr Sikumba disclosed that the State Visit is a reciprocal engagement following President Hichilema’s State Visit to the Republic of Ghana in July 2023 and builds on the outcomes of the Second Session of the Zambia-Ghana Joint Permanent Commission, held in Lusaka in October 2025.

Mr Sikumba observed that the visit underscores the long-standing cordial relations between Zambia and Ghana, founded on Pan-African solidarity, shared values and a mutual commitment to advancing Africa’s development agenda.

The Minister added that during the visit, the two Heads of State will hold bilateral talks at State House in Lusaka to provide strategic direction on priority areas of cooperation.

He noted that the discussions are expected to advance the implementation of existing Memoranda of Understanding between Zambia and Ghana across various sectors, with a view to promoting trade, investment and private-sector partnerships.

The Minister further stated that, President Mahama will, on February 5^th 2026, address the Parliament of the Republic of Zambia and that the address will provide an opportunity for the President of Ghana to engage Zambia’s legislators on shared democratic values.

Mr Sikumba said President Hichilema and his counterpart are further expected to attend the Zambia–Ghana Business Forum on February 6^TH 2026.

He explained that the business forum is aimed at promoting trade and investment opportunities, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Mr Sikumba highlighted that priority areas of cooperation to be advanced during the visit include agriculture and food security, energy, mining value addition, waste management and the circular economy, trade and investment, commodities exchange systems, as well as skills development and emerging technologies, including Fintech.

He observed that Zambia and Ghana remain strategic partners with a shared vision of a prosperous, integrated, and self-reliant Africa.

“This State visit will, therefore, provide a vital platform to deepen bilateral ties, strengthen economic cooperation and reinforce collaboration at continental level for mutual benefit,” he said.

President Mahama is expected to depart Lusaka immediately after his official engagements.

Economic Performance of the UPND Government (2021–2025).

Columns
Economy

Chief Editor

February 2, 2026

Economic Performance of the UPND Government (2021–2025).

By Frank Mwansa

1. Introduction

This write up evaluates the economic performance of the UPND government from 2021 to 2025 using empirical evidence across key indicators: GDP growth, inflation, debt management, fiscal policy, external financing, structural reforms, and socioeconomic outcomes.

2. Context and Objectives

Prior to 2021, Zambia’s economy faced a high external debt burden, elevated inflation, low growth rates, and weak investor confidence. The UPND government under President Hakainde Hichilema set out to:

Stabilize and revive the economy,
Restructure debt,
Stimulate growth and investment,
Improve service delivery and social welfare,
Create jobs, and
Strengthen public financial management (National Assembly of Zambia, 2025).

3. Macroeconomic Performance

3.1 GDP Growth

Restoring economic growth was a central objective of the UPND government. Zambia’s economy rebounded significantly after the contraction associated with the COVID-19 pandemic and debt crisis.

Real GDP growth averaged approximately 5.2% between 2021 and 2024, compared with an average of 1.5% between 2017 and 2020 (National Assembly of Zambia, Sept. 12, 2025.).

IMF projections indicate continued growth of 5.2% in 2025 and 5.8% in 2026 (IMF, Jan. 27, 2026.).

These figures demonstrate a recovery to growth rates above historical averages, supported by macroeconomic stabilisation and structural reforms.

3.2 Inflation and Price Stability

Inflation, a major socioeconomic concern, declined substantially during the UPND administration:

Average inflation fell from approximately 23.1% in early 2021 to 15.5% by 2025 (National Assembly of Zambia, Sept. 12, 2025).

In early January 2026, inflation declined to single digits (around 9.4%), a level not recorded since 2018 (Open Zambia, Jan. 29, 2026.).

This improvement reflects tighter monetary policy, fiscal consolidation, and greater exchange rate stability, contributing to improved consumer purchasing power and business confidence.

3.3 Debt Management and Restructuring

Upon assuming office, the UPND government inherited a severe debt crisis following Zambia’s 2020 default.

Key achievements include:

Over 92% of Zambia’s external debt was restructured through negotiations under the G20 Common Framework reducing debt servicing pressure and restoring fiscal space (National Assembly of Zambia, Sept. 12, 2025).
Public debt declined from approximately 112% of GDP in 2021 to about 87.6% in 2025, with further reductions projected (IMF, Jan. 27 2026,).
Completion of the IMF Extended Credit Facility (ECF) programme restored international credibility and unlocked additional financing (Reuters, 2025).
The fiscal deficit shrank significantly from over 9 % of GDP in 2021 to about 3.5 % in 2024, while reserves increased, improving import cover (Lusaka Times,2025).

These developments reduced debt distress, strengthened fiscal sustainability, and improved Zambia’s international risk profile.

4. Fiscal Policy and Governance

4.1 Fiscal Consolidation

The UPND government prioritised fiscal discipline through expenditure control and revenue-enhancing measures.

Economist Dr. Lubinda Haabazoka rated UPND fiscal discipline at 9.2 out of 10, citing improved budget credibility and reduced deficits (Lusaka Times, Oct. 21, 2025.).

Although fiscal deficits persist, the overall trend reflects improved alignment between expenditure and sustainable financing.

4.2 Decentralisation and Social Development

The Constituency Development Fund (CDF) increased from approximately K1.4 million in 2021 to over K30.6 million by 2025, significantly enhancing local development capacity.
The introduction of free education and expanded social support programmes has contributed to improved access to public services (Open Zambia, 2024).

These measures aimed to promote inclusive development and reduce regional disparities.

4.3 International Partnerships

Re-engagement with international institutions, particularly the IMF, was central to economic stabilisation.

Successful implementation of the IMF ECF programme marked a turning point in Zambia’s international relations and policy credibility (IMF, Jan. 27, 2026).

This has facilitated access to concessional financing and technical assistance.

5. Challenges and Critiques

Despite macroeconomic progress, several weaknesses remain:

5.1 Institutional Capacity

Institutional reform remains incomplete, constraining governance outcomes.

5.2 Structural Vulnerabilities

Public debt, although reduced, remains elevated and constrains fiscal space.
Economic growth remains heavily dependent on copper exports and global commodity prices.

These challenges highlight the limits of macroeconomic stabilisation without deeper structural transformation.

6. Conclusion

Empirical evidence indicates that between 2021 and 2025, the UPND government made significant progress in stabilising and reviving Zambia’s economy. Key achievements include:

Sustained economic growth above historical averages.
Substantial reduction in inflation and improved price stability.
Successful debt restructuring and improved public debt sustainability.
Enhanced fiscal discipline and restored international credibility.

However, institutional capacity issues, reliance on extractive industries and persistent socioeconomic vulnerabilities suggest that economic success remains partial rather than complete. Sustaining gains beyond 2025 will require continued policy consistency, economic diversification, and stronger institutional governance.

Sports minister Elvis Nkandu is a top notch politician!

Feature Sports

Chief Editor

February 2, 2026

Sports minister Elvis Nkandu is a top notch politician!

Elvis Nkandu is not only a top notch politician, but he’s also kind hearted and very generous. In this treatise, we seek to elaborate the reasons behind this hypothesis.

Early 2000s we led members of Action Against Vandalism (AVA) on a marathon walk from the mining town of Chingola to Ndola to raise awareness on vandalism. During those years, vandalism of public infrastructure was rife in the country, including draining oil from the ZESCO transformers for whatever reasons! AVA was an NGO that existed to prevent and raise awareness on the scourge.

We set-off from Chingola around mid day and got to Kitwe as the sun was retiring for the night. By that time, ominous dark clouds had already swiftly begun to assemble…..it was just a matter of time before the skies above opened up and drenched us to the bone! We desperately needed a place to stay for the night.

Left with limited options, we plodded into the sprawling Chisokone market in search of the office for ZANAMA. We finally hobbled into the office, haggard and emaciated, and found Elvis Nkandu, Chairman of the association at the time addressing a meeting.

Upon being ushered into his office, we introduced ourselves and presented our predicament to him. He seemed to listen with avid interest as we narrated events leading us there.

“In short Mr. Chairman,” we cut the long story short. “We’re stranded and need a place to stay for the night….”

“That is not a big deal!” Was the immediate response.

As if on cue, he instructed his ‘kandiles’ to immediately go around the market stands with a begging bowl and collect enough food for us. The effort yielded fish, vegetables and mealie meal! Actually, enough food to last us the duration of the walk was gathered! He gave us some pocket money and also ordered his men to move the furniture around and create enough space for us to sleep.

If this isn’t the epitome of utmost kindness and generosity, then what is?

Coming to politics, very few politicians can beat the Sports minister at this game. He’s a household name in Kaputa for obvious reasons! For instance, look at the multitudes that turn up to welcome him whenever he’s in his constituency? This one has already campaigned and won the seat….. anyone who would contemplate challenging him both within and outside the party would be wasting their time and precious resources!

As if this wasn’t enough, Elvis keeps delivering victory wherever he’s assigned by the President during the by-elections. He went into Kasama and single-handedly demolished and wrestled the mayoral seat from the jaws of PF/Tonse. He has also previously delivered Kawambwa constituency, among others. The minister would venture into an area and effortlessly unveil his campaign message, punctuated with jokes and songs.

As they say, alaa Elvis wakulefafye! Some of us are even left wondering why he hasn’t yet been elevated to one of the deputy secretary general positions, previously occupied by Mubanga Mucheleka, as he’s the right fit for the job. With a possible combination with the vibrant Youth Chairman, Gilbert Liswaniso, the UPND national Secretariat would never be the same again.

Salute!

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst
Zambezi

PF President Lubinda Vows Loyalty to Party and Tonse Alliance

Headlines

Lusaka Times Editor

February 1, 2026

PF President Lubinda Vows Loyalty to Party and Tonse Alliance

Patriotic Front (PF) President Given Lubinda has pledged his full support to the Patriotic Front, the Tonse Alliance, and to the party’s flag bearer who will be democratically elected before the end of February.

Speaking in Lusaka at a Tonse Alliance and Patriotic Front signing ceremony, Lubinda adopted a measured and conciliatory tone, emphasising unity, discipline, and respect for internal democratic processes as the party prepares to select its presidential candidate.

Lubinda stated that the forthcoming flag bearer does not necessarily have to be himself, noting that several members within the Patriotic Front have expressed interest in leading the party. He stressed that the decision regarding who will carry the party’s banner rests entirely with the membership.

He described the selection of a flag bearer as a serious responsibility rather than a symbolic event, warning that the process must be approached with humility and a clear understanding of the national duty that comes with leadership. Lubinda said whoever emerges from the process will be entrusted with a demanding mandate and must therefore receive the unreserved support of both the Patriotic Front and its alliance partners.

In remarks that highlighted continuity and party identity, Lubinda publicly pledged allegiance to the Patriotic Front as founded by Michael Chilufya Sata and later stewarded by Edgar Chagwa Lungu. He reaffirmed his loyalty to the Tonse Alliance, which he reminded attendees was established to strengthen unity among opposition political parties.

Lubinda committed himself to backing, without qualification, the individual who will be elected as the Patriotic Front’s flag bearer. He said his position was informed by a desire to safeguard internal democracy and to ensure that the party presents a united front ahead of national elections.

With the end of February approaching, Lubinda appealed to Tonse Alliance partners to play a stabilising role during the PF’s internal electoral process. He described the Patriotic Front as the anchor party within the alliance and urged members and partners to guard its cohesion carefully during what he acknowledged would be a sensitive period.

He emphasised that the credibility of the forthcoming conference would depend on the process being free, fair, and accepted by party members. Lubinda said only a leadership choice grounded in unity and consensus could produce a candidate capable of commanding confidence beyond party structures.

Lubinda deliberately refrained from commenting on how other political parties are managing their internal elections. He said such matters were outside his concern, adding that each political formation must ultimately live with the outcomes of its own decisions.

The PF President framed his remarks within a broader reflection on political responsibility, stating that leadership must be guided by principles rather than personal ambition. He said his focus remained on strengthening democratic practice within the party and ensuring that the Patriotic Front remains aligned with its founding values.

Closing his address, Lubinda said his overriding wish is that, when Zambia’s political history is written, he will be remembered as having stood firmly on the side of democracy. He indicated that his actions during the flag bearer selection process would reflect that commitment.

The Tonse Alliance and Patriotic Front signing ceremony brought together party officials and alliance representatives, marking another step in preparations ahead of the PF’s internal electoral timetable.

Pump Prices Reduced as Kwacha Strengthens and Oil Prices Fall

Headlines

Lusaka Times Editor

January 31, 2026

Pump Prices Reduced as Kwacha Strengthens and Oil Prices Fall

The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has revised fuel pump prices downwards for February 2026, citing a decline in international oil prices and a significant appreciation of the Kwacha during the month of January In a press release issued by the Board, the ERB stated that the international price of petrol declined by 7.89 percent since the last fuel price review conducted on 31st December 2025. The price fell from US$73.25 per barrel to US$67.47 per barrel over the review period.

Diesel prices on the international market also recorded a reduction, declining by 3.80 percent from US$79.93 per barrel to US$76.89 per barrel. Similarly, the combined price of kerosene and Jet A-1 declined by 4.05 percent, falling from US$82.00 per barrel to US$78.68 per barrel.

In addition to movements in international oil prices, the ERB noted that the exchange rate performance during January 2026 played a major role in the pump price review. According to the Board, the Kwacha appreciated by 10.6 percent over the course of the month.

The exchange rate strengthened from an average of K22.30 to the United States dollar at the beginning of January to an average of K19.94 per dollar at the end of the month. The ERB stated that the appreciation helped reduce the landed cost of petroleum products.

Based on these developments and the need to manage pump price volatility, the ERB announced that it had revised the pump prices of petrol, diesel, kerosene and Jet A-1 downwards with effect from February 2026.

The pump price of petrol has been reduced from K29.92 per litre to K27.88 per litre, representing an absolute reduction of K2.04 per litre. This translates into a price decrease of 6.82 percent.

Diesel pump prices have also been adjusted downwards from K25.11 per litre to K24.50 per litre. The reduction represents an absolute decrease of K0.61 per litre, equivalent to a 2.43 percent change.

Kerosene has recorded one of the larger percentage reductions, with the pump price falling from K23.88 per litre to K22.24 per litre. This represents an absolute reduction of K1.64 per litre, or 6.87 percent.

The pump price of Jet A-1 has been revised from K25.53 per litre to K23.80 per litre. This reflects an absolute reduction of K1.73 per litre, equivalent to a 6.78 percent decrease.

The ERB also announced revised Posted Airfield Prices (PAP) for Jet A-1 at international airports. The new PAP has been set at K23.80 per litre at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka and Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport in Ndola.

At Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone, the Posted Airfield Price has been set at K24.61 per litre, while Mfuwe International Airport will have a PAP of K27.04 per litre.

According to the ERB, the revised pump prices will come into effect at midnight on 31st January 2026 and will remain in force until the next review is conducted by the Board.

The ERB further stated that wholesale and pump price build-ups for February 2026 are available on its official website. The Board reiterated that fuel price reviews are conducted in line with prevailing international market conditions and exchange rate movements.

The press release was issued on Saturday, 31st January 2026, by order of the Board and signed by ERB Board Chairperson James Banda.

Six-year-old drowns in Chasefu shallow pit

Rural News

Guest Editor

January 31, 2026

Six-year-old drowns in Chasefu shallow pit

A six-year-old boy from Sinyota Village in Magodi Chiefdom, Chasefu District, has drowned in a shallow pit after attempting to swim with friends on his way home from school.

The incident occurred on January 29, 2026 when the boy, who was the first to dive into the pit after removing his school uniform, failed to resurface.

His friends rushed to the village for help, but he was retrieved lifeless.

Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba confirmed the incident, stating that the boy died before resuscitation could be administered.

Mr Mweemba added that police inspected the body and ruled out foul play.

Govt hands over ablution blocks in Luangwa schools

Feature Rural News

Guest Editor

January 31, 2026

Govt hands over ablution blocks in Luangwa schools

Lusaka Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Alex Mapushi has commissioned three ablution blocks at two schools in Feira Constituency, Luangwa District, constructed at a cost of over K1.9 million under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

The facilities include one block at Mandombe Primary School and two at Mwavi Secondary School, catering for both girls and boys.

Mr Mapushi said the demand for more infrastructure has been driven by increased school enrolment following the government’s free education policy.

He noted that the new ablution blocks will end open defecation practices and improve hygiene and sanitation in schools.

“These ablution blocks that have been constructed and handed over to the school will end the open defecation practice that has been practiced due to lack of a modern water borne infrastructure,” he says.

He urged school management and learners to safeguard the infrastructure, stressing that proper care will help prevent diarrheal diseases such as cholera.

Mandombe Primary School Headteacher Evelyn Njobvu appealed for more teachers’ houses, while Mwavi Secondary School Headteacher Christopher Kabamba requested a kitchen and dining hall for the school’s 613 pupils, including 400 boarders who currently eat under trees.