Zambia Roundup: Food security, cybercrime, healthcare, IMF support

Corn production

Zambia's corn production is expected to drop by over 50% in 2024/25 due to drought, leading the country to import approximately 1 million metric tons of corn to maintain food security. The government has authorised private sector imports, but only genetically engineered free corn will be permitted. However, this limits imports to neighboring Tanzania, excluding corn from South Africa, the main producer in the region, Reliefweb reports.

Foreign healthcare volunteerism

Foreign healthcare volunteers in Africa, especially from the United States, have been found to harm relationships between local Zambian health professionals and patients. The Conversation reports that the presence of volunteers, who can provide higher quality care due to their privilege, has created division and resentment. This relational harm highlights the need for global health volunteers and organisations to consider the impact on local relationships and work towards strengthening them.

Cybercrime arrests

22 Chinese nationals were arrested in Zambia for cybercrime, involving deceptive conversations with mobile users and the use of SIM boxes. Leader Li Xianlin received 11 years in prison. Raid on Chinese-owned businesses led to the discovery of large-scale criminal operations. 77 people were arrested, including Zambians and a Cameroonian. According to Business Insider Africa, more than 13,000 SIM cards were confiscated, demonstrating the extensive reach of the operation.

Upgrades at Mfuwe International Airport

Mfuwe International Airport in Zambia will remain open for upgrades during the 2024 peak tourism season, allowing access to South Luangwa National Park, Travel Daily News reports. The upgrades will take place over 90 days starting on June 13. This decision will support tourism in Zambia and ensure the continued growth of the industry.

IMF support for Zambia

The International Monetary Fund has agreed to provide $574 million in financial assistance to Zambia to support the country after severe drought. This follows a request to increase a previous loan deal from $1.3 billion to $1.7 billion. Zambia's Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane said the agreement reflects the government's efforts to reform the economy and put its accounts in order. Jamaica Observer reports that the country has been struggling with a significant deceleration in GDP growth and a looming food crisis due to the drought.