A guide to this week’s election in Zambia, a southern African country rich in critical minerals
Summary
Zambia is holding a presidential election to decide if President Hakainde Hichilema will serve a second five-year term. Since taking office, Hichilema has worked to fix the economy, reduced inflation, stabilized the currency, and restructured over $12 billion in debt, but many citizens still face high living costs.Key Facts
- Zambia’s election is on Thursday to possibly re-elect President Hakainde Hichilema.
- Zambia faced a debt crisis after defaulting on payments during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.
- Hichilema became president in 2021 and has led efforts to restructure Zambia’s debts.
- The economic recovery plan includes tripling the country’s copper production by 2031.
- Copper is a critical mineral used worldwide, and Zambia is one of the top producers.
- Hichilema’s strongest challenger is Brian Mundubile, leader of the Tonse Alliance.
- Despite economic improvements, many Zambians still struggle with high food and energy prices.
- Zambia has a population of about 22 million and uses the Kwacha as its currency.
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