James Ndambo Sets Sights on 2026 Presidential Race, Stirring UPND Panic

By Mathews Mwanza | October 2, 2025

Zambia’s political stage is heating up as businessman and philanthropist James Ndambo prepares to enter the 2026 general elections, a move that could shake the country’s political balance.

Born on 18 April 1954, Ndambo is the founder of Africa Union Financial Services (AUFS), a South Africa–based firm long partnered with Belarus in promoting trade across the SADC region. But it is his charitable footprint in Zambia, particularly through the My Home Town initiative, that has won him admiration among youths and rural communities.

Insiders say the ruling UPND is quietly worried about Ndambo’s growing influence. His financial muscle, coupled with a strong grassroots connection, makes him a unique contender in a political arena where the opposition has struggled to unite against President Hakainde Hichilema (HH).

 “Ndambo’s ability to meet people at their point of need gives him a powerful edge. He is not just promising, he is already delivering,” one analyst observed.

UPND officials, however, dismiss talk of panic, stressing that President Hichilema remains focused on his development agenda and enjoys strong nationwide support.

Still, political commentators suggest that Ndambo’s entry could reshape Zambia’s opposition politics, injecting fresh energy into the race and forcing the ruling party to tighten its strategies ahead of 2026... Read more 

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