Copperbelt Deal: Vedanta’s Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) signed a $498m contract with China’s NERIN Engineering to build a copper recovery plant in Chingola, targeting 70,000 tonnes per year from tailings and supporting KCM’s push to lift output by 2031. Exploration Update: Koryx Copper says it has started fieldwork at Luanshya West and Mpongwe, including a maiden 2,500m diamond drill programme and plans for about 3,000 soil samples, alongside an amended option deal to raise its Zambia ownership to 80%. Forestry Finance: The World Bank says it is ready to support Zambia’s $102m Lobito Plantation Forest Economy programme, aimed at enabling private investment, building timber value-chain services, and creating jobs. Tax Relief Move: Zambia’s ZRA introduced a 100% waiver on accrued penalties and interest upon settlement of principal tax due, positioning it as a breather for businesses and revenue administration. Capital Markets Push: SADC is advancing exchange connectivity through an Exchange Gateway concept to enable cross-border trading and broaden investor access across the region. Democracy & Business Risk: A crackdown on opposition figures, including an Anglican bishop detained on treason charges, is raising concerns that political tensions could spill into investor confidence and operating conditions. Representation Reform: ECZ validated 40 proportional representation MPs under Zambia’s new system, with seats reserved for women, youth and persons with disabilities.