Zambia Roundup: IMF agreement, former president Lungu makes return, TB deaths

IMF staff-level agreement

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has reached a staff-level agreement with Zambia, paving the way for the country to access $185 million from Special Drawing Rights, contingent upon approval from the IMF management and Executive Boards. This agreement stems from extensive negotiations concerning the Extended Credit Facility and underscores the Zambian government's dedication to implementing sound macroeconomic policies amidst challenges such as drought. IMF Chief of Mission Mercedes Vera Martin noted that Zambia’s medium-term growth is projected at 6.2% by 2025, buoyed by rebounds in crucial sectors and ongoing reforms. Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane has reiterated that this agreement demonstrates international confidence in the country’s economic strategies. 

Travel ban on South African opposition Malema lifted

Zambia has lifted a travel ban that previously restricted South African opposition leader Julius Malema from visiting. This ban, instituted by former President Edgar Lungu due to Malema's support for the current President Hakainde Hichilema, was rescinded as Hichilema emphasised African unity during the inauguration of Botswana's president Duma Boko.

Former president Lungu makes official political return

Former President Edgar Lungu has proclaimed his return to active politics, vowing to champion constitutional democracy and unify opposition forces ahead of the upcoming 2026 elections. Lungu has publicly reproached the current United Party for National Development (UPND) administration for its handling of economic matters and has called for collective efforts among political entities, civil society, and the citizenry to tackle Zambia’s pressing challenges. 

Decline in TB deaths among persons living with HIV

Zambia has witnessed a decline in tuberculosis (TB) deaths among individuals living with HIV, attributed to a substantial escalation in tuberculosis preventive treatment (TPT). Following a high prevalence of HIV-associated TB in 2018, the Zambian government prioritised TPT as part of its objective to eliminate TB by 2030. By the end of 2022, TPT coverage skyrocketed from 8% to 90%, with over 1.1 million individuals commencing treatment, leading to a remarkable 50% reduction in rates of HIV-associated TB. 

Improvements in eye care services

Zambia’s health minister Elijah Muchima has reported notable improvements in eye care services in the country. The minister said that the enhancement of local services has contributed to a decline in the number of Zambians travelling abroad for eye care. According to eye specialist Dr David Kasongole from Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, there are over 970,000 people living in Zambia who suffer from visual impairment.