By John Chola

Zambia’s capital market is gaining fresh momentum, with the Lusaka Securities Exchange (LuSE) pushing its total market value close to US$17 billion following a strong performance in March 2026.

Driving this growth is the listing of Klapton Reinsurance, which debuted with 2.82 billion shares at K0.35 each—marking a major milestone as the first Moody’s-rated firm to join the LuSE Main Board. The move signals rising investor confidence and strengthens Zambia’s position as an emerging investment destination.

📈 The market posted steady gains, with the All Share Index rising by 1% to 27,289.81 points, while year-to-date returns reached 5.3% in kwacha terms and an impressive 20.7% in US dollar terms.

Top-performing stocks included AECI, ZCCM Investments Holdings, Zambeef Products, and ZESCO United Group—though some counters recorded declines, highlighting a selective investment trend.

💡 A standout development is the rapid rise in mobile trading, with users on the LuSE app growing by 9% to over 36,000. The platform is making it easier for everyday Zambians—especially young and first-time investors—to access the market in real time.

💰 Meanwhile, the bond market is also heating up, with turnover climbing to K6.5 billion, driven by increased demand for government securities and new benchmark bonds.

LuSE CEO Nicholas Kabaso says the outlook remains positive, with stronger retail participation, improved liquidity, and a growing pipeline of listings expected to sustain the market’s upward trajectory.

👉 Bottom line: Zambia’s stock market is not just growing—it’s becoming more accessible, dynamic, and globally attractive.