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Democratic Union leader, Ackim Njobvu, has urged the Zambian government to boost trade with Eastern countries such as China, India, and Russia, while reciprocating the recent decision by the United States government to increase visa bonds to US$15,000.
The U.S. Department of State had announced that starting August 20, 2025, Zambian and Malawian citizens traveling to the United States would be required to pay visa bonds of US$5,000, US$10,000, or US$15,000.
Njobvu told Zambia Monitor in a statement on Saturday that although the U.S. government aimed to curb illegal immigration, it was unfortunate that the decision undermined existing understandings between the two countries.
He called on the Zambian government to consider revising visa requirements for American citizens traveling to Zambia as a reciprocal measure and to expand trade relations with Eastern countries.
“We should consider revising the requirements for Americans accessing our country to match their demands. The sad part is that many of our students studying or hoping to study in the U.S. will face increased difficulties traveling there,” Njobvu said.
He emphasized that Zambia should strengthen trade ties with the Eastern bloc to avoid further deterioration of relations that could harm the economy.
Njobvu described the U.S. decision as unfortunate but predictable, citing policy changes under President Donald Trump’s administration, including cuts to health aid and threats to withdraw support from the United Nations, which is now considering relocating some offices to Kenya.
Read More: Zambia protests U.S. visa bond requirement for nationals, seeks clarity
Similarly, National Restoration Party leader, Ezra Ngulube, expressed disappointment over the high visa bond fees imposed by the U.S. government on Zambian and Malawian citizens.
“It is very disappointing that the U.S. government has introduced Visa bonds costing nearly K350,000 for Zambians and Malawians traveling to study, visit, or do business,” Ngulube said.
He supported Njobvu’s call for reciprocity, suggesting that Zambia impose visa fees of at least K600,000 on American visitors.
Ngulube urged the Zambian government to protect its resources, invest in building the facilities sought after by Zambians abroad, and safeguard the interests of its citizens.
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