Monetary Policy: The Bank of Zambia cut the Monetary Policy Rate by 250 basis points to 10.75%, citing easing inflation and an improved outlook, with the aim of lowering borrowing costs and supporting growth. IMF Talks: Zambia has opened talks with an IMF mission on a successor programme to the Extended Credit Facility, targeting stability plus more focus on investment, exports and jobs, with discussions running until October 10. Energy & Power: Zambia is pushing for more alternative energy as El Niño risks threaten hydropower, while Maamba Solar begins feeding 100MW into the national grid and private solar expansion continues. UAE Investment Drive: President Hichilema secured UAE agreements worth about US$2.4bn, including a US$2bn Medical City in Lusaka, plus deals on logistics and technology, alongside talks on digitalisation and fuel price stability. Agribusiness Finance: Indo Zambia Bank says its agriculture portfolio has reached about K3.3bn, with nearly K400m disbursed to over 3,600 farmers, and more funding planned for soybeans and wheat. Governance & Rule of Law: Church bodies renewed calls for independent probes and due process after the 2026 election period, while Archbishop Alick Banda was released on bail after a night in jail. Mining & Markets: First Quantum provided an update on Cobre Panamá, and Gemfields’ first-half 2026 results showed widening losses amid operational challenges.