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Banking & Finance

Financial markets, banking, insurance, taxation, investment, fintech, and economic reforms.

Bar chart showing Zambia public debt falling from 101.0 per cent of GDP in 2024 to 87.6 per cent in 2025, alongside a note that the Debt Sustainability Analysis still rates the country at high risk of debt distress.

Zambia Mobile Money Levy 2026: What It Actually Costs You

The mobile money levy is charged per transaction, not per kwacha. That single feature decides whether it costs you a little or a lot. Here are the numbers.

TEThe Zambian Economist · 29 Jul 2026 · 4 min read

Bar chart comparing Zambia policy rate of 13.25 percent with the average commercial bank lending rate of about 28 percent in 2026

Banking & Finance

What the Bank of Zambia Policy Rate Means for Your Loan

The policy rate is 13.25% but the average lending rate is near 28%. Why the gap exists, what actually moves your repayment, and the three questions to ask…

TEThe Zambian Economist · 28 Jul 2026 · 6 min read

Chart showing the kwacha strengthening from about 29 to the dollar in March 2025 to 18.70 in July 2026, with a summary of which parts of the Zambian economy gain and which pay

Banking & Finance

Why a Strong Kwacha Is Not Always Good News for Zambia

The kwacha is up 20% this year. It cuts import costs and inflation - but squeezes exporters, tourism and the government revenue base. Who wins, who pays, and…

TEThe Zambian Economist · 28 Jul 2026 · 5 min read

Line chart showing Zambia annual inflation falling from 12.3 percent in September 2025 to 6.5 percent in June 2026, back inside the Bank of Zambia 6 to 8 percent target band

Banking & Finance

Zambia Inflation Rate 2026: What the Numbers Actually Show

Zambia's inflation fell to 6.5% in June 2026, back inside the Bank of Zambia target band. What drove it, which parts are temporary, and what it means for…

TEThe Zambian Economist · 28 Jul 2026 · 4 min read