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Dollar could fall 10%, investors to prepare for major shift

Chief Editor
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Dollar could fall 10%, investors to prepare for major shift

The US dollar could slide by as much as 10% over the next 12 months, according to analysts at deVere Group, one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory and asset management organizations.

The analysis joins a growing chorus of major financial institutions forecasting a deeper downturn for the greenback amid slowing growth, aggressive rate cuts, and global trade disruption.

The US Dollar Index, already down nearly 10% from its February highs, is forecast by deVere to tumble further, potentially hitting levels not seen since the early stages of the pandemic.

The fall, if realised, would mark one of the most significant annual declines in over a decade.

“Investors need to brace for a pronounced decline in the dollar’s value,” said Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group.

“The combination of a shifting interest rate landscape, intensifying trade headwinds, and the recalibration of global capital flows is likely to weigh heavily on the currency. The US no longer holds the same interest rate advantage it once did, and that gap is only going to widen as cuts accelerate.”

deVere’s projection aligns with recent warnings from top-tier US banks and other international financial institutions, though its 10% forecast is among the most bearish.

The anticipated rate cuts from the Federal Reserve — as much as 175 basis points in total over the next year — are central to the outlook.

“This policy shift is expected to compress yields and erode the dollar’s attractiveness relative to its major peers,” notes Nigel Green.

“While 10-year Treasury yields remain elevated for now, we believe they’re nearing a peak, with a sharp descent on the horizon as the Fed pivots more decisively.”

He continues: “With a slowing domestic economy and growing political unpredictability, especially on the trade front, global investors are increasingly questioning the dollar’s dominance.

“This is a moment of reassessment — not only of US economic resilience but also of the role the dollar plays in the world’s financial architecture.”

Sentiment toward the dollar has already deteriorated markedly. Commodity Futures Trading Commission data show speculative positioning on the dollar remains far from bullish extremes, leaving room for a more aggressive unwind. Meanwhile, a Bloomberg gauge of the currency slipped again on Monday, continuing a trend that reflects a broader rethink of exposure to US-denominated assets.

As the dollar weakens, investors are already pivoting. deVere notes increased demand for traditional safe-haven currencies — including the yen, euro, and Swiss franc — all of which stand to gain as the dollar retreats.

“The winners in this shift will be those who position now,” said Green. “Foreign exchange markets are forward-looking, and many of the tailwinds that propped up the dollar are now becoming headwinds.

“A passive stance could mean missed opportunities — or worse, significant losses.”

For companies and investors with international exposure, this shift is already influencing strategy.

Exporters and multinationals are hedging more actively, while portfolio managers are reassessing allocations to non-dollar assets and emerging markets that could benefit from a weaker US currency.

“The world is watching the US not just for monetary signals but also for stability,” adds Green. “When confidence erodes — as it is now — the consequences extend beyond FX charts. Investors should prepare accordingly.”

He concludes: “The dollar is facing a tougher 12 months ahead, and those who act early will be best placed to seize the inevitable opportunities.”

Cyber Law or Cyber Muzzle? Zambia’s Rights Body Warns Against Erosion of Expression Freedoms

Lusaka Times Editor
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Cyber Law or Cyber Muzzle? Zambia’s Rights Body Warns Against Erosion of Expression Freedoms

Cyber Law or Cyber Muzzle? Zambia’s Rights Body Warns Against Erosion of Expression Freedoms

By Chester Banda

Lusaka, Zambia – Amid rising public concern over the recently enacted Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act, the Human Rights Commission (HRC) has issued a strong advisory urging citizens not to surrender their constitutional right to free expression out of fear or intimidation.

The Commission’s caution comes at a time when digital space in Zambia is undergoing a transformation that some critics say could jeopardize civic freedoms under the guise of national security. While government officials have defended the laws as essential for protecting the public from cybercrime, others worry that vague provisions may be weaponized against whistleblowers, journalists, and everyday citizens expressing dissent.

In a press statement delivered this week, HRC Spokesperson Mweelwa Muleya emphasized that the new cyber legislation should not be interpreted as a tool for censorship. “Freedom of expression is not a privilege; it is a fundamental right enshrined in our Constitution and protected under international human rights conventions to which Zambia is a party,” he said.

Mr. Muleya urged law enforcement and regulatory bodies to uphold proportionality and legality in the enforcement of these laws. “It is crucial that any application of the cyber laws is done in a manner that is necessary and proportionate to the intended goal — which must be public safety, not political control,” he added.

The Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act, passed earlier this year, introduces new offenses such as cyber harassment, fake news dissemination, and illegal access to information systems. Proponents say it is a timely response to the growing threats of cyber fraud, online abuse, and digital misinformation. However, civil society groups have sounded alarm bells over clauses that allow for sweeping surveillance powers and punitive penalties for vaguely defined offenses.

“What Zambia risks now is a chilling effect on free speech, where citizens begin to self-censor for fear of arbitrary arrest or intimidation,” said Chileshe Mwamba, an information rights advocate with the Centre for Digital Freedom. “We’re seeing laws that could be used more to silence critics than to protect victims.”

This is not Zambia’s first foray into controversial digital legislation. In 2021, a version of the Cyber Bill was shelved following public outcry over similar concerns. The current iteration was passed with modest amendments but remains contentious.

According to legal analysts, a key weakness lies in the lack of clarity in enforcement guidelines, raising the possibility of abuse by overzealous authorities or politically motivated actors. Already, some citizens have reported increased caution in sharing political views online, and there have been a handful of arrests linked to social media posts deemed defamatory.

Despite the unease, the HRC insists that citizens should not retreat from public discourse. “Democracy thrives on robust dialogue, and it is the duty of every Zambian to keep that dialogue alive — responsibly but boldly,” Muleya affirmed.

He also called on the government to conduct broad-based civic education to ensure the public understands the scope and limits of the law. “The law should serve the people, not intimidate them. It must be transparent, fair, and consistently applied.”

As Zambia transitions further into the digital age, how it balances freedom and security will define not just its technological evolution, but the health of its democracy. For now, the message from the Human Rights Commission is clear: fear must not replace freedom  and silence must not become the new status quo.

President Hichilema Commends the Church as a Development Partner

Lusaka Times Editor
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President Hichilema Commends the Church as a Development Partner

President Hichilema Commends the Church as a Development Partner

Hichilema Applauds Church’s Development Role, Urges Continued Partnership in Education, Health, and Food Security

By Moses Chimbolyo

Choma, Zambia – President Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed the church’s place as a vital development partner in Zambia, calling on faith-based institutions to expand their efforts beyond spiritual guidance into nation-building activities that uplift communities.

Speaking during a worship service hosted by the Brethren in Christ Church at Choma Secondary School grounds, President Hichilema praised the church’s longstanding contributions to the health and education sectors. “The church has always been there when our people needed support  when the country lacked enough schools, clinics, or even food,” the President said.

He noted that the government cannot achieve its developmental goals alone. “We are in a collective struggle to uplift the lives of every Zambian. That struggle requires unity, shared values, and trusted partners  and the church remains one of those partners,” Hichilema emphasized.

He also urged churches to harness their agricultural potential and contribute surplus food toward national food security goals, particularly in rural areas hit hard by erratic rainfall patterns. “Our food systems need resilience, and the church has land, community reach, and moral authority. You can help feed the nation, literally and spiritually,” he said.

President Hichilema’s remarks come amid growing calls for inclusive development approaches that leverage the influence of faith-based organizations. Historically, churches have been pivotal in Zambia’s education and health evolution, particularly in underserved regions. Many mission hospitals and schools still rank among the most trusted institutions in the country.

At the same event, the President spoke directly to students, encouraging them to stay focused, disciplined, and optimistic about the future. “The country is changing,” he said, “and it will need sharp minds, strong hearts, and bold souls to keep it moving forward.”

Observers note that Hichilema’s outreach to religious institutions may also serve a political function, as churches continue to wield considerable influence in shaping community sentiments, especially in a polarized political environment. However, analysts view the renewed emphasis on cooperation as largely positive.

“The President’s tone was pragmatic,” said development strategist Dr. Twaambo Zulu. “He sees the church as a delivery partner, not just a moral voice. That signals a shift toward multi-sectoral development thinking.”

Church leaders, for their part, welcomed the engagement. A senior pastor from the Brethren in Christ Church said, “We are ready to work with government, as long as our voice remains free and our efforts are respected.”

With general elections a year away and the country still recovering from economic shocks, partnerships like these may become the backbone of Zambia’s resilience.

Zambians Urged to Hold Government Accountable to Its Promises

Lusaka Times Editor
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Zambians Urged to Hold Government Accountable to Its Promises

Lusaka, Zambia – With public frustration mounting over stalled projects and poor service delivery, prominent development expert Dr. Charity Musamba has issued a clarion call for Zambians to take a more active role in monitoring and evaluating the government’s development promises.

Speaking in Lusaka on Monday, Dr. Musamba emphasized that Zambia’s progress depends not only on policies and funding, but on the vigilance of citizens in demanding accountability. “If we leave the government unchecked, we become co-authors of our own underdevelopment,” she said. “The people must insist that every promise made is a promise kept.”

Her remarks come amid continued concern over poor implementation of key government programs, from youth empowerment initiatives to rural electrification and infrastructure rollouts. According to Dr. Musamba, inefficiencies in program execution have eroded public trust and slowed socio-economic progress.

“The administration may have vision, but implementation is where the state is faltering,” she said. “It is unacceptable to see competent professionals sidelined while critical positions are handed to political loyalists who lack the skills to deliver.”

Dr. Musamba further warned that without serious introspection and action within the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), the credibility of its development agenda could collapse. She encouraged the government to conduct internal audits on implementation agencies and to remove incompetent officers from sensitive delivery roles.

Her advocacy aligns with increasing public discourse on transparency, fueled by civil society, youth activists, and independent media. Several watchdog groups have launched scorecards to track policy rollouts and budget allocations, especially in sectors like health, education, and local governance.

Political commentator Dr. Yona Mwale says this signals a maturing democracy. “We are witnessing a shift. Citizens no longer see elections as the only form of participation. They are demanding continuous performance,” he said.

Zambia’s recent history offers mixed lessons in this regard. While successive governments have made ambitious pledges, many projects have either stalled or underperformed due to bureaucracy, weak procurement systems, and corruption.

Dr. Musamba believes the solution lies in institutional reform and civic empowerment. “Zambians must stop romanticizing politics. We need technocrats at the forefront of development, not just campaign loyalists,” she stressed.

She also called on the media to go beyond reporting events to investigating timelines, deliverables, and budget adherence in public projects. “Let journalism drive oversight,” she said.

The UPND government, elected in 2021 on a platform of economic recovery and good governance, has made notable strides in debt restructuring, free education, and CDF disbursements. However, critics argue that operational inefficiencies threaten to dilute these gains.

Nakacinda Questions ECZ’s Capacity to Disqualify Violent Parties

Lusaka Times Editor
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Nakacinda Questions ECZ’s Capacity to Disqualify Violent Parties

Lusaka, Zambia – As the Lumezi parliamentary by-election approaches, political temperatures are rising and so is skepticism over the Electoral Commission of Zambia’s (ECZ) ability to hold violent political actors accountable.

Raphael Nakacinda, Secretary General of the opposition Patriotic Front (PF) faction and a spokesperson for the Tonse Alliance, has challenged ECZ’s recent warning that it may disqualify political parties found inciting violence during campaigns. Speaking in an interview with Hot FM News, Nakacinda dismissed the Commission’s threat as “mere posturing,” alleging a pattern of selective enforcement that undermines the electoral process.

“The ECZ is not neutral. In Petauke, our senior members were assaulted in full view of the public. No action was taken — not by the police, and certainly not by ECZ,” Nakacinda claimed, referencing past incidents he says prove institutional reluctance to discipline the ruling party, United Party for National Development (UPND).

The ECZ, in its recent advisory, had urged youths in Lumezi District to report violence and assured that any party found culpable would be penalized, including through disqualification. But such assertions now face a credibility test.

Political analysts are divided on the implications of Nakacinda’s accusations. Some argue they are strategic — meant to preemptively delegitimize ECZ decisions in the event of PF losses. Others believe the claims echo a broader concern about institutional strength and impartiality.

“Electoral commissions must do more than issue threats. They must act decisively and be seen to apply the law evenly,” said governance expert Dr. Mwaka Chisanga. “If voters perceive bias, the legitimacy of any election outcome is compromised.”

Electoral violence has marred several recent by-elections in Zambia, raising alarm among observers and civil society groups. Lumezi is considered a potential flashpoint, and the ECZ’s ability to guarantee a peaceful and credible election there could serve as a bellwether for future polls, including the 2026 general elections.

For its part, the ECZ has maintained that it is committed to enforcing the Electoral Process Act, which allows the Commission to suspend or disqualify political players found to be violating the electoral code of conduct. However, critics argue that enforcement has been inconsistent and often reactive rather than preventive.

Youth movements and peace advocacy groups are now calling for greater voter education, real-time monitoring, and the deployment of non-partisan observers during the campaign period.

“The ECZ’s authority is only as effective as its willingness to use it,” said Judith Tembo of the Zambia Election Peace Coalition. “We want equal accountability across all parties, whether ruling or opposition.”

As political campaigns intensify in Lumezi, eyes will be on whether the ECZ can turn its rhetoric into action. For now, the public is left weighing whether Zambia’s electoral referee is still fit for the ring  or just playing to the crowd.

Expired Menstrual Products Pose Health Risk, ZABS Warns

Lusaka Times Editor
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Expired Menstrual Products Pose Health Risk, ZABS Warns

Lusaka, Zambia – The Zambia Bureau of Standards (ZABS) has issued a critical warning on the health dangers posed by expired menstrual hygiene products, urging tighter oversight in distribution channels and greater awareness among consumers, especially young girls in schools.

Speaking at a Learning Event hosted by the NGO WASH Forum in Lusaka, ZABS Assistant Documentation and Information Officer Thandiwe Pasi highlighted growing concerns over improperly labeled and expired sanitary products that are circulating in Zambian communities, including school environments.

“These products may look new on the shelf, but many are either beyond their expiry date or lack vital information such as manufacture date, usage instructions, or proper labeling,” Pasi said. “Using expired sanitary pads or related products can lead to infections, skin irritation, and other health complications.”

ZABS emphasized the need for strict packaging and quality control of menstrual hygiene products entering the Zambian market. Many such items are either imported through informal trade routes or produced by unregulated suppliers with little oversight, exposing vulnerable users to considerable health risks.

Schools, particularly in rural and low-income areas, have become focal points in this crisis. Often relying on donor-supplied or subsidized sanitary packs, some institutions unknowingly distribute expired products, putting students’ health in jeopardy. Teachers and parents are rarely equipped with the knowledge or tools to detect substandard goods.

Recognizing this gap, Zambia NGO WASH Forum Coordinator Bubala Mumba called for more inclusive and youth-centered approaches to menstrual hygiene management. “It’s not just about access to pads it’s about dignity, education, and safety,” Mumba said. “We must involve girls directly in these conversations to make sure solutions are not only practical but protective.”

She further argued that the silence surrounding menstruation in schools contributes to poor awareness and limits the reporting of bad experiences related to product use. “Menstrual health remains a neglected issue in public health discourse. We need to change that narrative,” she urged.

The call for better oversight comes as Zambia joins global efforts to push for menstrual equity and hygiene rights. According to the World Bank, one in 10 girls in Sub-Saharan Africa misses school during their periods due to lack of menstrual supplies or inadequate sanitation infrastructure. In Zambia, the issue is compounded by poverty, stigma, and now, risks associated with expired or low-quality products.

To counter the problem, ZABS is encouraging procurement officers, school administrators, and even parents to verify labeling on menstrual products and avoid bulk purchases from unverified suppliers. The agency also plans to strengthen collaboration with the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA) and the Ministry of General Education to improve standards enforcement in schools.

Meanwhile, calls are growing for the government to consider a national sanitary product subsidy program tied to certified vendors, which would reduce market entry for substandard brands while boosting local manufacturing capacity under regulatory scrutiny.

Zambian Government Confronts Health Sector Tensions as Doctors Demand Action

Lusaka Times Editor
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Zambian Government Confronts Health Sector Tensions as Doctors Demand Action

Zambian Government Confronts Health Sector Tensions as Doctors Demand Action

By Lawrence Haachipuka

Lusaka, Zambia – Mounting frustration over poor working conditions and delayed payments has triggered an emergency response from the Ministry of Health, as government officials scramble to pacify unrest within the medical fraternity.

On Monday, the Ministry of Health announced it had convened an urgent meeting with the Resident Doctors Association of Zambia (RDAZ) in a bid to address escalating grievances among medical professionals. The move follows a public outcry by RDAZ over continued delays in the formal employment of medical doctors and what the association has described as a “steady decline in workplace dignity.”

Minister of Health Dr. Elijah Muchima, while acknowledging the legitimacy of the complaints, expressed concern over the association’s decision to air its frustrations through the media. “These matters are best resolved through engagement, not public spectacle,” Dr. Muchima stated during a press briefing. He emphasized that ongoing fiscal constraints remain the primary bottleneck in resolving the employment backlog and improving remuneration packages.But for many doctors, patience is wearing thin.

According to RDAZ insiders, over 800 trained doctors have remained unemployed for months, despite having completed their mandatory internships and passing licensure requirements. Hospitals are also said to be experiencing shortages of basic supplies and medical personnel, adding to the burden of already stretched healthcare staff.

“We are not demanding luxuries. We are simply asking for the conditions that allow us to save lives without risking our own health or falling into financial ruin,” said one Lusaka-based doctor who asked to remain anonymous for fear of professional backlash.

Health sector unions and civil society organisations have begun rallying in solidarity with the doctors, warning that failure to address systemic failures could lead to broader disruptions in public health services, especially as the country braces for potential disease outbreaks during the rainy season.

Economist and public policy expert Dr. Nchimunya Malama believes the standoff reflects a deeper crisis. “We’re seeing symptoms of long-term underinvestment in healthcare infrastructure and human resources. The crisis is not just financial,  it’s structural.”

The situation has reignited debate over the government’s budgetary priorities. While Zambia’s 2025 national budget increased allocations to health by 14%, critics argue that the disbursement of funds remains sluggish, often hindered by bureaucratic red tape or misallocated due to weak oversight mechanisms.

Dr. Muchima maintains that the government remains committed to improving the sector. “We will continue to hire and improve conditions, but this must be done within the framework of our economic recovery plan,” he said, referring to the country’s ongoing efforts to manage external debt and streamline public expenditure.

Meanwhile, the Ministry has invited the RDAZ to the negotiating table with promises of dialogue, though no timeline for action has been publicly announced.

Observers warn that if concrete progress is not achieved swiftly, Zambia risks not only a health workforce exodus but also a collapse of morale among front-line staff. This scenario could have long-term repercussions for national development.

As the government and doctors prepare to meet behind closed doors, the nation watches closely. At stake is not only the future of medical professionals but the integrity of Zambia’s healthcare system itself.

Government Concerned With Increasing Defilement Cases

Chief Editor
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Government Concerned With Increasing Defilement Cases

Government has expressed concern over the continued increasing levels of defilement cases in the country.
Minister of Justice Princess Kasune, says the rate at which cases of defilement and rape are happening, calls for serious interventions.
Speaking during a consultative engagement meeting with stakeholders on the proposed constitutional Amendment Bill 7 of 2025 in Chinsali, Ms Kasune lamented that the unfortunate rise of such vices needs punitive measures.
“This is an alarming situation and hence you will see in the amendment that we are going to ensure that there is consistency in the definition of who is a child and that does not excuse any form of rape, incest nor defilement,” she added.

The Fuel of Betrayal: How Zambia Pays the Price While Angola Pumps Prosperity

Lusaka Times Editor
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The Fuel of Betrayal: How Zambia Pays the Price While Angola Pumps Prosperity

In a world where a mere kilometer can separate abundance from austerity, Zambia stands as a cautionary tale  a nation paying triple for fuel while its oil-rich neighbor Angola practically gives it away. The numbers are damning. The irony is heartbreaking. And the silence? Deafening.

In Angola, a liter of petrol goes for just $0.327. In Zambia, the same liter costs $1.163 an unforgiving difference of $0.836 per liter. It’s a pricing gap that transcends economics. It screams geopolitical miscalculation. It exposes a failure of vision. And it leaves Zambian households, transporters, and small businesses crushed under the weight of a commodity that should be affordable in a region so rich in resources.

Angola isn’t just lucky — it’s strategic. Ranked as Africa’s fourth-largest oil producer and 18th globally, Angola pumps out about 1.2 million barrels of crude oil every day, yet consumes only 150,000 barrels domestically. The rest  over 1 million barrels daily  is exported, earning the country a staggering $31.4 billion in 2024 alone. China, Spain, India, France, and the Netherlands are top destinations for Angolan crude. But not Zambia. Never Zambia.

Instead, Lusaka turns 7,000 kilometers eastward to import refined petroleum from the Middle East, burning through nearly $1.8 billion annually for approximately 2 million metric tons of petroleum products. The irony? Zambia and Angola share 1,110 kilometers of border, are both members of SADC, and sit just 2,300 kilometers apart by road. Yet one pumps prosperity while the other imports poverty.

This is not a story about oil alone. It is a story of the betrayal of potential. A story of how Africa’s borders, drawn in Berlin and maintained in boardrooms, continue to suffocate cooperation. Why has Zambia failed to ink a bilateral fuel deal with Angola, especially when doing so could cut pump prices by nearly $0.60 per liter  even at Angola’s retail price?

The answer lies in decades of dependence. In systems designed to keep Africa externally reliant. In politics that reward inefficiency and diplomacy that lacks boldness. And in leaders more willing to fly to Dubai than to drive to Luanda.

The consequences are not abstract. For Zambians, high fuel prices mean higher transport costs, more expensive food, shrinking disposable income, and stalled development. A boda rider in Lusaka pays more per liter than an Uber driver in Madrid. This isn’t just unfair  it’s enraging. And yet, it doesn’t have to be this way.

Imagine an Africa where borders mean opportunity, not isolation. Where Angola supplies oil not just to the West, but to its neighbors  under African terms. Where Zambia, DRC, and Malawi enter joint refining and distribution agreements. Where infrastructure is built to connect, not to divide. Where policy is driven by Pan-African logic, not colonial hangovers.

Africa has been cheated by others   yes. But it is also cheating itself. And that must stop.

The Zambian government has a duty to act not tomorrow, but now. Negotiations with Angola should not be diplomatic dreams but operational realities. Establish a corridor. Sign a deal. Build a refinery. Bring fuel home.

Because until Africa learns to do business with itself, it will continue buying back its blessings  at a premium.

This is a call to rethink. To revolt  gently, wisely, and purposefully — against the systems that no longer serve us. It’s time we stopped being grateful for crumbs while we sit on gold.

Let Zambia be the last country where a liter of fuel costs a mother her meal, a child their school fees, and a nation its dignity when help is just across the border.

Message For Today:By His Stripes

Chief Editor
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Message For Today:By His Stripes

Today’s Scripture

But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed.
Isaiah 53:5, NKJV

By His Stripes

Friend, imagine Jesus sitting at the right hand of the Father and hearing us pray, “Lord, if it’s Your will, You can heal me.” He says to the Father, “So after I took all those stripes, endured all that pain for them, to take their sickness, now they’re wondering if it’s My will?” That doesn’t honor God. After the price He paid, the way to honor God is to have the attitude: “Lord, I know You want to heal me.”

We see all through the Scripture that healing is His will. One of the best things we can do is to remind God of what He says. If you want to pray with confidence, bring His stated will to Him. Pray what He promises. “God, You say You will restore health to me. You say You took my infirmities, carried my sickness, and by Your stripes I have been healed. You say You wish above all things that I prosper and be in good health.” When you pray the promises, you won’t say “if it is Your will,” because you know His will.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that You have come into my life as my Savior, as my provider, and as Jehovah Rapha, the Lord my healer. Thank You that it is Your stated will to heal and restore. I will trust You to keep me strong and healthy, always taking new ground. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

President Hichilema Unveils JCHX Mining as Strategic Investor in Lubambe Copper Mine

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Unveils JCHX Mining as Strategic Investor in Lubambe Copper Mine

President Hakainde Hichilema officiated the unveiling of JCHX Mining Limited as the new strategic investor in Lubambe Copper Mine Limited, marking a significant milestone in Zambia’s mining sector. The ceremony, held in Chililabombwe, also featured the groundbreaking of the mine’s deep ore body project—an initiative aimed at boosting Zambia’s copper production in line with the national target of 3 million tonnes annually by 2031.

In his address, President Hichilema described the occasion as a critical inflection point in the country’s journey to unlocking its vast mineral wealth. He emphasized that Zambia’s economic transformation hinges on attracting investments that yield measurable outcomes for both citizens and the national treasury.

“We were honoured to participate in this historic moment,” the President said. “Our economic vision is anchored on attracting investment that delivers measurable impact. We cannot build a resilient nation if we consume more than we produce. That path leads to unsustainable debt and missed opportunities.”

He reiterated the importance of productive sectors such as mining and agriculture in generating long-term employment, fostering entrepreneurship, and increasing revenue for national development.

The President commended Lubambe Copper Mine and ZCCM-IH for sustaining operations through turbulent periods and applauded the Minister of Mines and Minerals Development for his role in securing this pivotal transaction.

“This spirit of partnership, rooted in mutual trust and shared values, is essential for driving sustainable economic growth,” Hichilema added.

The entry of JCHX Mining—a Chinese-based mining services firm—into Lubambe is expected to revitalize operations at the site, injecting both capital and technical expertise. This collaboration comes at a time when Zambia is actively seeking to position itself as a global leader in copper production amid growing demand for green energy minerals.

Faith Bwalya Makes History for Zambia at Miss World 2025

Chief Editor
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Faith Bwalya Makes History for Zambia at Miss World 2025

Faith Bwalya has etched her name in Zambia’s history books by becoming the nation’s first representative to reach the Top 40 at the Miss World pageant. The 24-year-old medical professional from Kitwe achieved this milestone during the 72nd Miss World Grand Finale held at the HITEX Exhibition Centre in Hyderabad, India .

Bwalya secured her spot in the Top 40 through the Head-to-Head Challenge, where she impressed judges with her eloquence and advocacy on global issues . Her advancement marks a significant achievement for Zambia, highlighting the country’s growing presence on the international pageant stage.

First Lady Mutinta Hichilema extended her support to Bwalya, stating, “Wishing Faith Bwalya all the best as she steps into her moment of truth at the 72nd Miss World Grand Finale in India. Your journey to the top 40 has already made history, and now, with Zambia behind you, may you shine even brighter on the global stage. Whatever the outcome, your grace, intelligence, and passion have made your nation proud. Go forth with confidence” .

The Miss World 2025 title was ultimately awarded to Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand, marking the country’s first win at the pageant .

Bwalya’s accomplishment has been celebrated across Zambia, with many expressing pride in her representation and the positive spotlight she has brought to the nation. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many and underscores the potential of Zambian talent on global platforms.

Ambassador Chibesakunda Presents Letters Of Credence To Polish President

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Ambassador Chibesakunda Presents Letters Of Credence To Polish President

Her Excellency Mrs. Winnie Chibesakunda presented her Letters of Credence to His Excellency Mr. Andrzej Duda, President of the Republic of Poland, at the Belvedere Palace in Warsaw on Wednesday 28th May 2025, accrediting her as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Zambia to the Republic of Poland on a non-resident basis.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Chibesakunda conveyed to President Duda the warmest and cordial greetings and best wishes from President Hakainde Hichilema and the people of Zambia to the Government and people of Poland.

And during a private meeting with the Ambassador, after receiving her Credentials, President Duda recognized the important relations that exist between Zambia and Poland and reaffirmed his country’s desire to enhance areas of cooperation such as Education, ICT and Energy.

In response, Ambassador Chibesakunda thanked President Duda for the support that Zambia had received from Poland during the evacuation of Zambian students from Ukraine at the inception of the war.

Ambassador Chibesakunda also informed President Duda that Zambia is open for investment and partnerships for mutual benefit, which will in turn lead to development and employment creation.

She noted that Zambia’s food security was greatly affected as agriculture is largely rain fed, adding that the Zambian Government has put in place measures and new projects to counter the negative effects of the devastating drought experienced during the 2023/2024 farming season.

Ambassador Chibesakunda appealed to President Duda for investments from the Polish private sector in mechanized agriculture, which is inclusive of irrigation systems and water harvesting methods, and Investment in alternative energies to avoid dependency on hydro power.

She thanked President Duda for the role the Polish missionaries and nuns have played in Zambia over the years, noting that the Kasisi Orphanage was one example of the dedication and compassion the Polish people have shown to some of the vulnerable people in Zambia.

President Duda assured Ambassador Chibesakunda of his country’s support during her tour of duty and looked forward to further cooperation between the two countries

Issued by Lubinda Kashewe
First Secretary-Press
Embassy of the Republic of Zambia- Germany

Trump’s new tax clause will deter foreign investment: deVere CEO

Chief Editor
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Trump’s new tax clause will deter foreign investment: deVere CEO

A clause tucked into President Trump’s latest budget bill could prove deeply destabilizing for markets and US industry, warns Nigel Green, CEO of deVere Group, one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory and asset management organizations.

Section 899, passed last week by the House of Representatives, would give the US authority to impose heavier taxes on businesses and investors linked to countries it deems to have hostile or discriminatory tax practices.

Nigel Green says: “The measure risks detonating investor confidence and could set off a damaging pullback of foreign capital just as the US needs it most.

“It punishes the very people whose capital keeps American businesses growing, whose investments fund US debt, and whose companies are employing millions of US workers.

“If Washington wants to repel foreign investment into America, this is exactly how to do it.”

The scope of the provision is far-reaching. It targets not only international firms with a US presence but also foreign investors in American equities and corporate bonds.

It also removes tax exemptions long enjoyed by sovereign wealth funds, which are key investors in US infrastructure and innovation.

The deVere CEO warns this could fuel a quiet but accelerating exodus from US markets.

“There’s already a shift underway—foreign investors are pulling back from Treasuries, equity inflows are cooling, and confidence is more fragile than policymakers seem to understand,” he explains.

“This bill pours fuel on that fire.”

Data from the Treasury shows that overseas investors have been reducing their exposure to US government bonds, with cumulative holdings down sharply over the past year.

Meanwhile, the US is issuing debt at an unprecedented pace, putting enormous pressure on the market’s ability to absorb the supply.

“The US government is relying on global capital more than ever to fund its deficit. But with this kind of legislation, they’re actively discouraging that capital from sticking around. It’s reckless,” says Nigel Green.

“This isn’t just bad timing, it’s strategic self-harm.”

The deVere CEO is particularly concerned about the potential fallout for American jobs and competitiveness.

Foreign multinationals account for a major share of US employment in key sectors like automotive, pharma, and tech—many of which are located in parts of the country that have benefited from cross-border investment for decades.

“Let’s be clear: this won’t dent bureaucrats in Paris or Seoul—it will hurt factories in Ohio, research hubs in Texas, and small businesses in the Midwest that rely on international partnerships,” notes the deVere chief executive.

“This is about weaponizing tax policy in a way that risks backfiring on American workers.”

He also warns that the measure may provoke countermeasures from key trading partners—something markets are ill-prepared to digest.

“Other countries won’t sit idle while their firms and funds are penalised. They will respond. This means potential tax retaliation, trade frictions, and further fragmentation of an already fragile global economic order.”

He believes the bill contradicts the broader economic goals the administration says it’s pursuing—namely, job creation, reindustrialisation, and making the US more attractive for manufacturing.

“Investment doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It flows where it’s welcome. If the US signals it’s turning inward and becoming hostile to foreign capital, that money will find new homes.

“The consequences won’t be theoretical—they’ll be felt in payrolls, property markets, and capital costs.”

Nigel Green is calling for immediate reconsideration of the clause before it becomes law.

He concludes: “America’s strength has always come from its openness—its role as the go-to destination for global enterprise and investment. This budget clause sends the opposite message.

“It risks undoing decades of progress and deterring the very investment the economy needs most.”

Sunday Chanda Calls for Immediate Public Release of ECZ Delimitation Report

Lusaka Times Editor
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5
Sunday Chanda Calls for Immediate Public Release of ECZ Delimitation Report

Sunday Chanda Calls for Immediate Public Release of ECZ Delimitation Report

 Kanchibiya Member of Parliament Hon. Sunday Chilufya Chanda has issued a strong and principled call to the government to immediately release the full Delimitation Report prepared by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), citing transparency, fairness, and democratic accountability as the core reasons behind his appeal.

In a public statement released today, Chanda emphasized that the recent gazetting of “55” as the proposed number of new constituencies raises urgent questions that can only be answered through public access to the report. He stressed that delimitation though often viewed as a technical matter, is, in fact, a politically and socially significant process with major consequences for representation, resource distribution, and national development.

Below is the full statement as released by Hon. Chanda:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 31st May 2025

STATEMENT ON THE NEED FOR PUBLIC ACCESS TO THE DELIMITATION REPORT

As a Member of Parliament elected to serve the people of Kanchibiya and as a citizen deeply committed to the principles of transparency, equity, and democratic accountability, I wish to make a simple but important call to the Government on this Sabbath day.

It is in the spirit of national interest, beyond partisan lines, that I urge the Government to immediately make public the Delimitation Report prepared by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ). The recent gazetting of the figure ‘55’ as the proposed number of new constituencies makes the need for openness even more pressing.

Delimitation is not merely a technical or administrative exercise. It carries far-reaching implications for representation, political participation, resource allocation, and equitable development across our Republic. Citizens have a fundamental right to know how boundaries are being redrawn and how such decisions will affect their voice in Parliament and access to national resources.

The integrity of our democracy depends not just on the outcomes of elections, but on the processes that shape electoral frameworks. Transparency in delimitation will:

  • Build public trust;

  • Ensure stakeholder and citizen buy-in;

  • Reduce suspicions of gerrymandering; and

  • Affirm that we are all equal partners in Zambia’s democratic project.

This call is not about political advantage. It is about safeguarding democratic integrity and strengthening the institutions we all rely upon, regardless of political affiliation. The Constitution must not be treated as a tool of convenience, but a covenant that binds us all to fairness, equity, and the rule of law.

I reiterate: The people of Zambia deserve access to the full Delimitation Report. We cannot claim to deepen our democracy while withholding the very information that shapes its foundation.

Country first. Always.

Hon. Sunday Chilufya Chanda, MP
Member of Parliament – Kanchibiya Constituency

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