The Bank of Zambia -BoZ- has raised the Monetary Policy Rate- MPR- by one-hundred and- 50 basis points to 12-point-5- percent to control inflation. This is an increase from 11-percent. Bank of Zambia Governor DENNY KALYALYA says the increase is aimed at steering inflation to the target band of 6 to 8 percent. | ZNBC Today

Zambia’s currency is stealing the spotlight. In early 2026, the Zambian kwacha has surged nearly 10% against the US dollar, hitting a two-year high after a sharp rally. So, what’s driving the move? Rising copper prices, aggressive dollar selling, new central bank rules, and a historic shift allowing mining taxes to be paid in Chinese yuan. As China pushes to internationalise its currency and African nations explore alternatives to the dollar, Zambia may be offering a real-world blueprint for de-

KWACHA KING: ZAMBIA’S CURRENCY SURGES AS DE-DOLLARIZATION TAKES ROOT In early 2026, the Zambian kwacha has hit a two-year high, surging nearly 10% against the US dollar. This rally, fueled by a 26% gain in 2025, makes it one of the world's top-performing currencies. KEY DRIVERS Copper Boom: Prices hit a record $13,090/ton, flooding the market with export revenue. The "Yuan Shift": Zambia is the first African nation to accept Chinese yuan for mining taxes, slashing US dollar demand. Central Bank

#FirstpostAfrica: Zambia’s currency is stealing the spotlight. In early 2026, the Zambian kwacha has surged nearly 10% against the US dollar, hitting a two-year high after a sharp rally. So what’s driving the move? Rising copper prices, aggressive dollar selling, new central bank rules, and a historic shift allowing mining taxes to be paid in Chinese yuan. As China pushes to internationalise its currency and African nations explore alternatives to the dollar, Zambia may be offering a real-world