28/10/2026
🇿🇲 DID YOU KNOW?
ZAMBIA'S BANKING JOURNEY BEGAN WITH JUST THREE (3) COMMERCIAL BANKS.
When Zambia gained independence in 1964, only three commercial banks were operating in the country: Standard Chartered, Barclays and ANZ Grindlays. By 1970, that number had grown to five.
More than six decades later, Zambia's financial landscape has evolved considerably. From traditional banking services to mobile money and digital payments, the ways people save, borrow, send and manage money have continued to expand.
One significant milestone is financial inclusion. According to the 2025 FinScope Survey, 80.1% of Zambians were financially included, compared with 69.4% in 2020. This reflects the growing reach of financial services and the important role they play in enabling people to participate in economic activities.
However, financial inclusion is about more than access. It is also about understanding the services available, making informed financial decisions, recognising financial risks and using financial products responsibly.
This is where the Zambia Institute of Banking & Financial Services (ZIBFS) and its financial education and professional development agenda becomes essential.
As the sector evolves, banking and finance professionals must continually strengthen their knowledge, uphold ethical standards and develop the skills needed to serve customers effectively and responsibly.
At the ZIBFS, and in partnership with Bankers Association of Zambia, Bank of Zambia, and other industry players and stakeholders, we contribute to this journey through education programmes, professional examinations, information-sharing events, and industry-relevant CPD training, all aimed at equiping current and future professionals with the competence and integrity our financial sector needs.
As we celebrate 62 years of independence this year, we recognise the remarkable journey of our financial sector and the people whose knowledge, dedication and professionalism continue to contribute to its development.
Still wishing Zambia a Happy 62nd Independence Day! 🇿🇲
One Zambia, One Nation. Celebrating our journey. Investing in knowledge. Developing financial professionals.