AGP Executive Report

Digital Learning Push: MBRGI and The Digital School will roll out a sustainable digital education initiative for 500,000+ learners and youth across Mauritania, Nigeria, Lesotho, Zambia, Namibia and Angola, including support for schools, digital learning spaces, teacher training and job-market readiness. Power Sector Deal: ZESCO has signed a power purchase agreement with Swarna Solar Limited to build a 470MW solar plant in Serenje, with equipment expected in August and the first 100MW targeted for March 27, 2027, creating 400–450 jobs. Election & Ballots: ECZ dismisses claims of extra ballot papers after Dubai printing concerns raised by Tonse, while the State argues independent candidates must meet the two-month party-out rule by election day. Campaign Violence: Police have detained a suspect over the killing of a campaign driver in Mazabuka, renewing fears of poll violence. Economy & Livelihoods: JCTR reports the cost of living basket for a family of five rose by K349.50 year-on-year, while Zambia’s June inflation fell to 6.5%. Agriculture & Exports: Tobacco sales reached US$104.9m by Week 11 of the 2025 marketing season. Sports Integrity: NOCZ president Alfred Foloko represents Zambia at an IOC–INTERPOL workshop on preventing manipulation of sports competitions.

Energy & Investment: Zambia’s region-wide power push gets a boost as Zimbabwe moves toward a $400m (over R6.5bn) Kariba floating solar project, targeting financial close by October and an initial 500MW to the grid. Mining & Exploration: Prospect Resources says its Mumbezhi step-out drilling in north-western Zambia hit strong continuation, reshaping expectations for the copper system. Sports: Zambia’s Copper Queens begin WAFCON preparations in Lusaka, with defender Margaret Belemu saying the Algeria friendlies will help gauge tactics ahead of the tournament; Zambia is in Group C with Nigeria, Malawi and Egypt. Politics & Elections: Organized People’s Party presidential candidate Dr Brian Mushimba says Andyford Banda has stepped down as running mate and the party has notified ECZ; meanwhile President Hakainde Hichilema wraps North-Western campaigning in Solwezi and Mwinilunga, urging unity ahead of 13 August. Public Finance & Services: Government releases K450m to clear UNZA and CBU pension and gratuity arrears. Fuel Costs: Excise duty and VAT relief on petrol and diesel extended for 90 days from July 1 to September 30. Security: Police in Kaputa nab suspects over the murder of a UPND supporter, while Zambia’s peacekeepers in CAR report injuries after an attack on a UN base.

Election Process in Focus: Zambia’s 2026 ballot printing is underway in Dubai, with Al Ghurair saying it will produce 9 million presidential ballot papers in 4–5 days, while an NRPUP delegation has travelled to observe the exercise. Campaign Trail & Political Tensions: President Hakainde Hichilema has ordered security agencies to investigate political violence in Kaputa and Mazabuka and bring perpetrators to justice, as campaigns intensify ahead of August 13. Opposition Burial Row: NRPUP presidential candidate Brian Mundubile says Edgar Lungu will only be buried if his party wins, keeping the long-running burial dispute at the centre of rallies. Energy & Climate: Chisamba Solar Plant has generated over 187.69GWh in its first year, exceeding expectations and supporting plans for more solar projects. Agriculture & Food Security: FAO opened its first Global Conference on Smart Farming, pushing climate-resilient, smallholder-friendly innovation. Business & Investment Sentiment: Citi says investors are returning to Zambia, citing stability and interest in mining, energy and agriculture. Wildlife Conservation: Zambia plans to reintroduce cheetahs to the Luangwa Valley after nearly 30 years as part of a government-led conservation programme.

Election & ECZ Process: Ballot paper printing for Zambia’s 13 August general election has started in Dubai, with ECZ saying it will proceed even after a presidential candidate withdrawal because the law allows no changes once printing processes are underway. Presidential Race: ECZ confirms at least 14 presidential candidates on the final ballot list, including incumbent Hakainde Hichilema and independent Given Katuta, while former intelligence chief Xavier Chungu remains on the list despite incarceration. Fuel Prices: The Energy Regulation Board announces July fuel cuts after lower international oil prices and a slight kwacha appreciation, with petrol, diesel, kerosene and Jet A-1 all dropping. Campaign & Security: President Hichilema orders security agencies to act decisively on political violence in Kaputa and Mazabuka, warning that violence will be prosecuted regardless of party. Food & Agriculture: Government signs an MoU with Food for Education to expand school feeding to over 5.6 million learners, while Grain Traders Association of Zambia targets about 600,000 MT maize purchases this season amid regional price pressure. Infrastructure & Economy: TAZARA revival is set to boost freight capacity and shift more cargo from road to rail to ease pressure on highways. Energy Independence: ZEMA approves a USD 1.1 billion crude oil refinery in Ndola, aiming to reduce reliance on imported refined fuel. Regional/Global Watch: Central banks across Africa back interoperable payment systems to speed cross-border trade. Sports: Power Dynamos confirm the departure of four players as contracts expire, while Zimbabwean boxers win WABA titles in Zambia.

Election & Governance: ECZ begins ballot paper printing in Dubai for Zambia’s Aug 13 polls, with only UPND and independent candidate Given Katuta sending representatives to witness the process; meanwhile, political debate over foreign exchange reserves and “cost of living” continues, with IMF warning fiscal pressures are intensifying and primary surplus projected at 1.1% of GDP. Mining & Accountability: Minerals Regulation Commission starts reviewing mining and non-mining licence applications, while Zambia scores 81/100 in its third EITI validation for extractive transparency; human rights abuse allegations in mining remain a concern. Cost of Living & Social Services: Government commits over K500m per annum to school feeding and partners with Food4Education to expand the programme to millions of learners. Public Safety & Justice: Zambia Air Force legal clinic opens as Attorney General Kabesha urges fairness, discipline and zero tolerance for abuse; in court, a Chisamba man accused of defiling a child has trial adjourned to July 8. Health & Community: Police report over 40 garment workers fall ill in Ashulia factories; Zambia also highlights maternity care gaps through rural support initiatives. Sports: Team Zambia ends the Johannesburg Judo African Open with four bronze medals, climbing to fifth overall.

Election Watch: ECZ says ballot paper printing for Zambia’s 13 August polls will begin in phases at Al Ghurair Printing in Dubai, with presidential papers set to start tomorrow; the Commission estimates about USD5m for printing and has sent a delegation to oversee the process. Campaign Politics: President Hakainde Hichilema defends Zambia’s US$6.5bn foreign exchange reserves and tells critics to “think before they talk,” while the Tonse Pamodzi Alliance counters that reserves won’t win elections if household conditions stay harsh. School Feeding: Zambia signs a four-year MoU with Kenya’s Food4Education to strengthen and scale the school feeding programme from 4.6m to 5.6m learners by end-2026, with technical support across policy, operations, data/digital systems, budgeting and infrastructure. Mining & Rights: A report says human rights abuse allegations in the mining sector continue to rise, as Zambia debates how resources should benefit local communities. Road Safety: Yango Zambia and ZRST expand “Safer Journeys to School” in Lusaka, adding more schools and reaching over 24,000 children with safer routes and school zone improvements.

Election Process: ECZ Vice Chairperson Vincent Mukanda says ballot papers for Zambia’s August 13 general election will be printed to quality standards after touring Dubai’s Al Ghurair Printing and Publishing Company; printing starts tomorrow, June 30, with stakeholders urged to witness the process. Economy & Mining: President Hakainde Hichilema says copper output is on track to hit about one million tonnes this year, projecting over US$14 billion in revenue, as he launches the UPND campaign and reiterates targets for wheat, sugar and beef exports. Public Finance Debate: Opposition and commentators continue trading blows over foreign exchange reserves, with critics arguing reserves don’t ease household suffering while government insists the buffer supports stability. Security & Information Integrity: Zambia Police warn against AI-generated misleading content targeting senior officials ahead of the 2026 elections, saying such acts are offences under the Cyber Crimes Act. Justice: A 50-year-old Lusaka man, Paul Nkokeisha, has been committed to the High Court for trial over causing death by dangerous driving. Livestock Health: Government says it is importing about four crore livestock vaccine doses—two crore each for Lumpy Skin Disease and Foot-and-Mouth Disease—while expanding local production to close supply gaps. Sports: FAZ urges fans to turn up for the Under-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Ethiopia at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, with electronic ticketing announced.

UPND Campaign Launch: President Hakainde Hichilema kicked off his re-election bid at Lusaka’s Heroes Stadium, drawing a massive “sea of red” crowd and leaning on promises to keep tackling the cost of living, sustain economic recovery and protect gains ahead of the 13 August polls. Political Tensions: The rally also sparked debate online after Hichilema’s dance moment stole headlines, while opposition voices traded barbs over credibility and campaign tone. Economy & Mining: Hichilema told supporters copper output is expected to hit about one million tonnes this year, alongside plans to lower living costs and expand production across provinces. Governance & Health: Government launched the Zambia Cancer Survivors Network, and Transparency International Bangladesh rolled out a multi-country project on transparency and accountability in sexual and reproductive healthcare, with Zambia included. Local Incidents: A canoe capsized in the Zambezi region, killing a 30-year-old man, while a Mazabuka Central parliamentary candidate was allegedly attacked by a security guard. Sports: Zambia rugby suffered a heavy 71-12 defeat to Namibia in Windhoek.

Election Campaign Pulse: President Hakainde Hichilema is set to launch his re-election bid at Heroes Stadium, with a “Bally Rally” drawing thousands in Lusaka as UPND turns mobilisation into campaign momentum. Western Province Spotlight: Tonse Alliance adviser Mutotwe Kafwaya’s remarks questioning the need for an international airport in Western Province have sparked backlash, with critics saying the comments dismiss the province’s economic potential. Opposition Tensions: Socialist Party president Dr Fred M’membe condemned violence at an SP rally, while UPND officials accuse Tonse of having no clear message and being unprepared to govern. Court & Electoral Developments: Zambia’s High Court quashed ECZ’s decision on the “Candle” symbol, and the Supreme Court ordered a re-hearing of the Chirundu parliamentary nomination petition. Economy & Reserves Debate: Analysts and officials renewed arguments that foreign exchange reserves are not “government money,” as campaign rhetoric heats up around IMF loans and reserve use. Food Security: Government stepped up El Niño preparedness with a framework for climate-resilient farming, irrigation, and stronger food reserve management.

SADC UniVisa Push: A ministerial push is bringing the SADC UniVisa project closer to approval, aiming to let travellers use one visa across 16 member states and ease visa hassles for countries including Zambia. Economy & Reserves Debate: Prof. Lubinda Haabazoka explains why foreign exchange reserves are not “government money” for spending, while Sean Tembo warns Zambia’s $6.5bn reserves don’t automatically mean good management—fueling a heated election-season argument over reserves versus jobs and living costs. Campaign Politics: Citizens First faces setbacks as Maxwell Chongu resigns and withdraws his Kafue West bid, with Richard Phiri also pulling out in Petauke Central; meanwhile, Tonse Alliance rallies intensify over reserves and campaign access claims. Culture & Food Security: VP Mutale Nalumango urges parents to preserve local languages and backs traditional ceremonies like Mutomboko, as government steps up El Niño preparedness with a framework for resilient farming and stronger food reserves. Sports & Community: Nkwazi players receive police promotions; Rotary Club of Lusaka Metro donates to Chainama Hills Hospital; and CAF launches the countdown to WAFCON Morocco 2026.

WAFCON 2026: Malawi coach Lovemore Fazili named a 32-member provisional squad for Morocco, led by captain Tabitha Chawinga and vice-captain Temwa Chawinga, with Zambia in Group C alongside Nigeria and Egypt; Malawi open camp in Blantyre and face the Super Falcons in Rabat on 28 July. Economy & Elections: Inflation eased to 6.5% in June, but analysts and politicians are arguing over what the numbers mean for households; Tonse Alliance’s George Chisanga says Brian Mundubile supports building reserves, while UPND critics say reserves talk must translate into relief. Foreign Reserves Debate: A fresh push-and-pull continues over whether Zambia’s $6.5bn reserves are “government money” or emergency savings, with opposition and former officials trading barbs over priorities. Health: ZAMMSA says medicine availability is now above WHO’s 80% minimum, as government stresses tracing medicines “until the last pill.” Politics & Courts: Lusaka Magistrates’ Court adjourned Xavier Chungu’s case to 8 July over missing committal papers, while ECZ’s candle symbol decision was quashed by the High Court. Football (Local): FAZ president Keith Mweemba says government remains the biggest financier of football and vows to build a financially sustainable association. Campaign: President Hichilema is set for a rally outside Heroes Stadium on Sunday, 28 June.

Diaspora & Liberation Legacy: Zimbabwe President Mnangagwa praised the diaspora’s role in liberation and development, noting Zimbabweans in Zambia helped fund missions and move cadres. Digital Economy: Out There Media and Pulse Africa announced a strategic partnership to build a continent-wide digital advertising push, starting with Nigeria and Ghana, using telco data and mobile ad tech. Healthcare Cooperation: Zambia commended a Chinese medical team for improving care at facilities like Levy Mwanawasa Teaching Hospital through outreach, training, and donated equipment. Elections & Politics: UPND defended its record and urged voters to back a second term, while Vice President Nalumango urged Zambians to scrutinize manifestos; meanwhile, PF’s Miles Sampa called for arrest of some opposition presidential candidates and for release of “Why Me.” Economy Debate: Economists and politicians traded barbs over foreign currency reserves versus citizens’ hardship, as ZamStats reported a K7bn trade surplus in May and inflation easing to 6.5%. Road Safety: RDA sent engineers to assess damage to Kankumba Bridge after a fatal crash; police later reopened the road. Sports Development: FAZ set a target of about US$30m to grow football over two years.

Economy & Policy: Vice President Mutale Nalumango says government has stabilised Zambia’s economy and will now push for growth, jobs and productivity, while energy diversification (solar and thermal) is meant to fix power shortages. Inflation Watch: ZAMSTAT reports annual inflation eased to 6.5% in June 2026 from 6.6% in May, with food and non-food prices both contributing to the drop. Central Bank Debate: Opposition claims about foreign exchange reserves and inflation drew sharp rebuttals, with economists and officials stressing reserves are an emergency buffer for imports, debt and shocks. Public Service Pensions: The Public Service Pensions Act No. 73 of 2026 is now in force, introducing a modern pension framework, a 6.5% contribution split, and flexible retirement options. Food Safety: Government is sounding the alarm over preventable foodborne diseases linked to poor hygiene and unsafe handling. Infrastructure & Trade: RDA says the weighbridge on the Chingola–Kasumbalesa Road is complete and will soon be operational to reduce congestion and protect road life. Governance & Elections: ECZ urges Copperbelt candidates to stick to the campaign timetable; EU will deploy election observers for the August 13 polls. Sports & Society: Zambia Athletics appoints provincial safeguarding officers nationwide, while FAZ pushes for stronger commercial structures to grow football’s economic value. Crime: A Chipata businessman was robbed of K74,800 (MK17m) by machete-wielding assailants.

Election Security Clarification: Government says Zambia Army Commander Lt Gen Geoffrey Zyeele’s election remarks were misread, stressing the army’s role is limited to lawful support while police lead election security. Lungu Burial Update: Zambia will not appeal South Africa’s court ruling on Edgar Lungu’s burial; the Lungu family is free to hold a private burial in Zambia without government interference, easing long-running uncertainty. Economy Watch: Inflation eased to 6.5% in June (lowest since early 2018) as GDP grew 7.7% in Q1, with agriculture driving much of the rebound. Digital Payments Push: Visa and FMBcapital sign a five-year deal to scale digital payments across Zambia and the region. Infrastructure & Growth: Mansa Airport upgrade worth over K740m is progressing, with major works expected to finish by December. Sports Transfers: Power Dynamos striker Moses Shumah has joined AmaZulu in South Africa; Brian Masanyinga leaves for Zambia Police Service. Politics on the Ground: UPND accuses opponents of paying youths to boo Hichilema at rallies, while campaign debate intensifies around “Mundunomics” and reserves/inflation.

Kwacha Watch: Zambia’s kwacha is expected to stay broadly steady, with support from hard-currency sales by local firms meeting month-end needs; banks quoted it around 18.20 per US dollar. Election Oversight: The EU has deployed a 32-member long-term election observer mission for Zambia’s August 13 polls, led by Michael McNamara, with experts arriving late June. Lungu Burial Fallout: Zambia’s government says it will not appeal the South African Supreme Court of Appeal ruling that lets Edgar Lungu’s family decide his burial site, though the family is still consulting on timing and logistics. Mining & Jobs: LS-MFEZ has approved US$100m in investments in the first half of 2026, targeting at least 1,687 direct jobs. Sports & Community: Shoprite handed K50,000 in sports equipment plus K10,000 cash to Kaizer Kalambo academy, backing grassroots football development. Business & Trade: Afreximbank reports intra-African trade rose 5.47% to $213.8bn in 2025, with Zambia among countries driving growth. Local Football Administration: A Lusaka businessman has reported selected FAZ officials over alleged assault during a dispute over unpaid suit supplies for youth teams.

Lungu Burial Fallout: Zambia’s government has reaffirmed it will not appeal South Africa’s Supreme Court of Appeal ruling, saying the burial arrangements are now a private matter for Edgar Lungu’s family, while officials also confirmed the Embassy Park grave site prepared in Zambia will remain unoccupied as authorities decide what happens next. Election Watch: The EU will deploy an Election Observation Mission for Zambia’s 13 August 2026 general elections, appointing Michael McNamara as Chief Observer. Food Security & Markets: The Millers Association of Zambia targets buying 2.2 million tonnes of maize for the 2026 marketing season to secure mealie-meal supply, stock feed production and export demand. Energy & Infrastructure: ZESCO says it is confident of exceeding the 1,000MW solar target by end-2026, and RDA reports the Lusaka–Ndola Dual Carriageway is at 78% completion with congestion easing on opened sections. Health & Safety: Zambia calls for renewed global HIV funding as resources dwindle, and police warn against the creation and circulation of misleading AI-generated content. Economy & Finance: Bank of Zambia begins phasing out cheques, with June 26 set as the final day for interbank clearing, pushing customers toward digital payments.