News Digest - Monday, February 2nd, 2026

Today's news reflects our nation's progress on multiple fronts, from economic resilience and political accountability to technological innovation and sporting pride. Key developments highlight the government's economic management, the private sector's role in safety and community welfare, and a much-needed boost for Zambian football on the continental stage.

Main Stories

1. Government Claims 80% Fulfillment of 2021 Election Promises Ahead of 2026 Polls
   UPND Deputy Spokesperson and Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Elvis Nkandu, stated that the ruling party has fulfilled 80% of its 2021 campaign promises, citing enhanced Constituency Development Fund (CDF), free education implementation, and payments to retirees as key achievements, urging Zambians to judge them on this record in the August 2026 general elections.
2. Economyango Shows Sustained Growth with Inflation in Single Digits - Musokotwane
   Finance Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane confirmed consistent year-on-year economic growth since 2021, highlighting rebounds in mining, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism, alongside inflation falling to single digits from nearly 17% a year ago and the Kwacha stabilizing around K20 to the US dollar, signalling a recovering economy for Zambians.
3. Banking Sector Loan Book Surges to K116 Billion, Fuelling Key Sectors
   The Bankers Association of Zambia reported a 117% growth in the banking sector's loan book, reaching K116 billion by September 2025 from K53 billion in 2021, driven significantly by lending to the manufacturing, agriculture, and wholesale and retail sectors, indicating increased credit availability vital for business growth and job creation across our economy.
4. Yango Zambia Enhances Safety and Support in 2025, Including Free Insurance and Road Safety Education
   Yango Zambia rolled out a free insurance program covering drivers, couriers, and customers during rides and deliveries, introduced new in-app safety features like PIN-code verification and an SOS button, and partnered with the Zambia Road Safety Trust to educate over 8,000 children through its Safer Journeys to School initiative, directly impacting user safety and community well-being.

Other Notable Stories

• Governance & Justice:
  • UPND Deputy Spokesperson Elvis Nkandu expressed confidence in the party's re-election chances in August 2026, based on their claimed 80% fulfillment of 2021 promises and economic growth from negative 2.5% to around 5%.
• Sports:
  • Power Dynamos secured their first CAF Champions League group stage win, defeating Nigeria's Rivers United 1-0 in Uyo, keeping their quarter-final hopes alive as they move to third place in Group A with two matches remaining.

Key Takeaways & Watchpoints

• Monitor the tangible impact of increased banking sector lending (K116bn) on manufacturing, agriculture, and retail growth in the coming months.
• Observe Kwacha stability efforts against potential external pressures, balancing the need for a competitive exchange rate.
• Track Power Dynamos' crucial next CAF Champions League match against RS Berkane as they push for a historic quarter-final spot.