ZIPAR

How can refugee, former-refugee, and host-community farmers be integrated into commercially viable agricultural value chains?

This morning, ZIPAR presented the Summary Assessment Report on the Agricultural Roadmap for Rural Settlement Areas Hosting Forcibly Displaced People and Local Communities in Zambia during a Validation Workshop held at The Quorum in Lusaka.

The workshop brought together Government, UNHCR, development partners, private sector players, and other stakeholders to review and validate the assessment findings, while exploring practical pathways for strengthening agricultural productivity, market integration, livelihoods, and economic inclusion in Meheba, Mayukwayukwa, and Mantapala settlements.

The full report will be shared in due course.

Economic Shockwaves from the Middle East and Their Impact on Zambia

The Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR) participated in the First Quarter 2026 National Development Coordinating Committee (NDCC) Meeting, where national stakeholders discussed progress on the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP) and emerging risks and challenges arising from the conflict in the Middle East.

During the meeting, ZIPAR’s Interim Executive Director, Mr Zali Bryson Chikuba, delivered a special presentation on the economic implications of the ongoing US/Israel–Iran conflict on Zambia’s economy. The presentation highlighted how the conflict has evolved into a major global economic shock, driven by disruptions in energy markets, rising oil prices, global trade uncertainty, and increased transport and logistics costs.

The presentation showed that Zambia remains highly vulnerable to global fuel shocks due to its dependence on imported petroleum products, particularly from the Middle East. Since the escalation of the conflict, global crude oil prices have risen sharply, with domestic diesel prices increasing from K29.78 per litre in April to K33.99 in May 2026. The analysis further noted that if the conflict persists, Zambia’s growth prospects are likely to weaken, while inflation is projected to rise to approximately 9%, driven mainly by higher fuel and transport costs.

Further, the sectoral analysis revealed that the retail sector accounts for more than 97% of unleaded petrol consumption and over 40% of diesel consumption, implying that fuel price increases are quickly transmitted into transport costs, food prices, and the broader cost of living. Using the MicroZAMOD model, ZIPAR’s analysis showed that the fuel price shock could worsen extreme poverty from 48.6% to 51.9%, highlighting the disproportionate burden on poor and vulnerable households.

The presentation also underscored the risks to Zambia’s trade position, external sector stability, and household welfare, while emphasising the need for targeted policy responses to cushion vulnerable households, protect macroeconomic stability, and strengthen Zambia’s resilience to external shocks.

📌 Check out the detailed policy brief, which will be uploaded soon.

On this day, we celebrate the people behind ZIPAR's work, the dedicated team whose commitment continues to shape Zambia’s economic future.

Behind every policy brief, every research insight, and every recommendation is a team driven by purpose, professionalism, and a shared vision for national development. From rigorous analysis to meaningful stakeholder engagement, the work of ZIPAR reflects not just expertise, but a deep sense of responsibility to serve the public good.

Today is a moment to recognise that progress is built through collective effort. The strength of ZIPAR lies in its people, their ideas, collaboration, and dedication to evidence-based policymaking.

As we mark this day, we honour the value of work, the dignity it brings, and the impact it creates. Together, we remain committed to advancing policies that foster inclusive growth and sustainable development for Zambia.

Happy Labour Day.

Happy Labour Day!

Today, we celebrate the hard work, dedication, and resilience that drive our communities and economies forward. May this day be a reminder of the value of your efforts and the importance of fair, safe, and rewarding work for all.

Wishing you a restful and meaningful Labour Day!