Analysing Africa newsletter: An interview with Zambia’s president
The Economist
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
John McDermott, The Economist’s chief Africa correspondent, reflects on his 2016 meeting with Hakainde Hichilema (nicknamed “HH”), Zambia’s president. At the time, Hichilema was preparing for his sixth bid for the presidency, which would ultimately be successful. This interview provides insight into the political and economic landscape of Zambia under HH’s leadership.
Hakainde Hichilema’s rise to power in 2019 marked a significant shift in Zambian politics. The article highlights his focus on economic reforms, including efforts to stabilize the country’s finances and attract foreign investment. These measures have aimed to address long-standing issues like debt sustainability and governance challenges.
The piece underscores why this matters for global business readers: Zambia’s economic turnaround could set a precedent for other African nations. Hichilema’s policies aim to create a more business-friendly environment, which may influence regional and international trade relations. The article thus offers valuable insights into Africa’s political economy and its implications for global markets.
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Originally published on The Economist on 2/24/2026