Debt & Markets: Zambia’s Eurobond buyback drew a 97.85% participation rate, with the government using AfDB financing plus an incentive to replace expensive debt and free funds for power expansion, though analysts say a full long-term savings check is still needed. Election Economy: President Hakainde Hichilema launched the UPND 2026 manifesto, promising jobs, lower living costs and targets like 10m tonnes of maize and 10,000MW of power—while opposition Harry Kalaba dismissed the “one million jobs” claim as unsupported. Capital Markets: LuSE market value rose to K342bn and Zambia’s capital markets posted strong Q1 growth, alongside new commercial paper activity and SME financing support via the BoZ SME Growth Initiative. Energy Finance: Standard Bank says power project financing is shifting beyond state-backed contracts toward models that assess private buyers and flexible commercial structures. Mining & Environment: Chinese-owned U-Metals in Chingola has resumed operations after a shutdown over pollution concerns, reigniting pressure on environmental compliance. Regional Trade & Infrastructure: Tazara marks its 50th anniversary with a month-long programme framing the railway as a corridor for economic transformation. Policy & Governance: Zambia’s Army warned against misuse of social media and AI-generated content that could inflame divisions ahead of elections. Business Moves: Marubeni’s deal to buy TiAuto (Tiger Wheel & Tyre) signals continued cross-border corporate reshuffling across southern Africa.