Zambia Roundup: Inflation rate, US tariffs, mpox and cholera challenges

Zambian customs apprehend Indian in possession of over $2 million

Zambian customs officials apprehended a 27-year-old Indian citizen at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport attempting to transport over $2.3 million in cash and suspected gold valued at $500,000 to Dubai. The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) reported that the individual was intercepted by a multi-agency team, leading to ongoing investigations into the incident.

Inflation in Zambia expected to fall below 8% for first time since 2019

Zambia's inflation rate is projected to fall below 8% for the first time since 2019, with Secretary to the Treasury Felix Nkulukusa expressing confidence in reaching the central bank's target of 6-8% by year's end. This optimistic forecast follows a period of significant economic challenges, including a historic debt default and recent drought, suggesting a potential stabilisation of living costs for Zambians.

Zambian tech agencies urged to transition to paperless system

The Zambian Ministry of Technology and Science is advocating for a shift to paperless processes among its agencies, with Minister Felix Mutati emphasising the need for technological adaptation to improve service delivery. This initiative aims to eliminate manual systems and foster an environment conducive to economic transformation, reinforcing the importance of skills from the Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training Authority (TEVETA) in achieving these objectives.

U.S. tariffs threaten Zambian economy

The Zambia Consumer Association has warned that the U.S. tariffs—10% on African agricultural exports and 25% on copper imports—could severely impact the nation's trade prospects, reducing the competitiveness of Zambian products in foreign markets. Executive Director Juba Sakala highlighted existing issues, such as currency depreciation and rising costs of essential goods, exacerbated by the new tariffs.

Zambia faces mpox and cholera challenges

Zambia confirmed its second mpox-related death, with 49 total cases reported across six provinces. Health Minister Elijah Muchima stated that efforts are underway to trace and contain the outbreak while simultaneously addressing an increase in cholera cases, with 18 new cases bringing the total to 490 and nine deaths. The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with partners, is actively working to combat both public health challenges.