Zambia reaches agreement with creditors to restructure $3bn Eurobonds
TLDR
- Zambia reached a breakthrough agreement with private creditors to restructure $3 billion of international bonds.
- The deal involves consolidating Zambia's three current instruments into two amortizing bonds, with one offering higher repayments based on economic improvements.
- President Hakainde Hichilema celebrated the agreement with Eurobond holders, marking a significant milestone for Zambia's financial stability and economic recovery efforts.
Zambia announced on Monday a breakthrough agreement with a consortium of private creditors to restructure $3 billion of its international bonds, marking a significant stride towards resolving its prolonged debt restructuring process.
The proposed deal entails consolidating Zambia's three current instruments into two amortizing bonds, with one offering increased repayments contingent upon the country's improved economic prospects and debt management capabilities.
President Hakainde Hichilema hailed the milestone on social media platform X, declaring, "History has been made! We are pleased to announce the agreement with our Eurobond holders." The southern African country's sovereign bonds rose after the agreement was announced, with the 2027 note up 1.8 cents to 73.85 cents on the dollar.
Key Takeaways
Zambia defaulted over three years ago and is currently undergoing debt restructuring through the Common Framework, facilitated by the G20 platform. This framework aims to streamline debt overhauls for low-income countries by bringing together major creditors such as China and the Paris Club of developed nations. Zambia's restructuring serves as a pivotal test case within this framework. However, the process has been plagued by prolonged delays, stifling much-needed investments, stunting economic growth, and exerting pressure on local financial markets. The situation has been exacerbated by a severe drought declared a national disaster, impacting hydropower generation and food production. In 2022, Zambia secured a $1.3 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund, contingent upon debt restructuring with other creditors, highlighting the urgency of resolving the country's debt crisis to facilitate sustainable economic recovery.
Think someone else should see this?
To invest in this opportunity and other opportunities across Africa
Download the daba finance app on your mobile through
Take action.
Download app
Start investing in Africa’s best opportunities, including stocks, bonds, startups, venture funds, and more.
Partner with us
Unlock exciting business opportunities and growth potential.
Join Daba
Become a part of our vibrant community and enjoy exclusive benefits.
Contact us
Reach out to us for inquiries, support, or collaboration.