Zambia’s annual inflation rate reached a 26-month high at 13.8% in April amid a significant drought and currency devaluation. The kwacha’s depreciation against the USD, around 10% since March, combined with an El Niño-induced drought devastating crops, has heightened food import needs, pushing food inflation up to 15.7%. President Hichilema has sought approximately USD 900 mln in emergency aid to address the drought’s impact.