Zambia Roundup: Visa-free travel extension, Africa’s fastest-growing economies in 2025, illegal immigrants
Visa-free travel extension
Zambia has extended visa-free travel to nationals of 53 additional countries, effective January 1, 2025, to boost its economy and tourism. Announced by Minister Jack Jacob Mwiimbu, this policy supports President Hakainde Hichilema's goals for economic diversification away from copper mining. Included in the waiver are countries from Europe, South America, the Middle East, and several African nations like Cape Verde and Morocco. The move aligns with Zambia's National Migration Policy and aims to enhance international accessibility while ensuring national security through an advanced passenger information system. This brings the total number of countries exempt from visa requirements to 167, marking a step towards making Zambia a global hub for tourism, trade, and investment.
Drunken officer detained after releasing suspects on New Year’s Eve
A drunken Zambian police officer, Detective Inspector Titus Phiri, released 13 suspects from the Leonard Cheelo police station in Lusaka on New Year’s Eve, allowing them to celebrate. Phiri forcibly took keys from a fellow officer and opened both male and female cells, telling the detainees they were free. The suspects, facing charges of assault, robbery, and burglary, are now at large, prompting a manhunt. Phiri is currently in custody but has not responded to the allegations.
Zambia forcasted to be one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies in 2025
Zambia is forecasted to be one of Africa's fastest-growing economies in 2025, with a projected GDP growth of 6.6%, ranking sixth on the continent, according to the IMF. This growth is attributed to improved weather patterns and resolved supply chain issues, alongside government reforms and the expansion of mining operations. Experts emphasise the importance of stable energy and favourable agricultural conditions to support this growth. With increased investment and ongoing reforms, Zambia aims to strengthen its economic position and achieve sustainable development.
Monkeypox case recorded
Zambia has reported its fourth monkeypox case, involving a one-year-old boy who likely contracted the virus through close contact with a known case. Health Minister Elijah Muchima stated the child is stable and under home isolation. The country previously reported two cases in December and its first case in October 2024. The World Health Organisation has declared monkeypox, or mpox, a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, amid a global outbreak of over 100,000 cases in 122 countries. Mpox spreads primarily through close contact, including skin-to-skin and respiratory interactions.
Detained illegal immigrants
The Department of Immigration detained 261 suspected illegal immigrants during a clean-up operation in Lusaka on December 27, 2024. The detainees included 156 Burundians, 57 Congolese, 24 Tanzanians, 14 Rwandese, and others from various nationalities. The operation, which started at 5:00 AM, initially apprehended 284 individuals.
