AGP Executive Report

Sports Sponsorship: Zambia Sugar PLC has flagged off the 2026 Golf Invitational at Mazabuka Golf Club, reaffirming support for golf and youth sports development, with organisers expecting about 180 players as the club marks 100 years. Opposition Politics: Brian Mundubile’s Tonse Alliance campaign launch in Kitwe drew thousands, where he promised a “second independence,” including raising mining local content to 50% and reviewing cybercrime laws. Bill 7 Fallout: Former Mwinilunga MP Newton Samakayi rejected President Hichilema’s claim that he voted against Bill 7, insisting “I voted for Bill 7,” setting up a direct dispute over parliamentary records. Public Safety Data: Zambia Police report 10,231 GBV cases in Q1 2026, down 8.5% from the same period last year. Debt & Economy: Government hailed Zambia’s $1.36bn Eurobond buyback as a debt-management “masterclass,” citing near-unanimous bondholder approval and reduced future costs. Finance Risk Watch: Bank of Zambia warned of rising non-performing loans linked to payroll-based lending practices among public service workers.

Debt & Power: Zambia’s debt buyback is being framed as a “global finance masterclass” after government hailed a $1.36bn Eurobond liability management deal that secured 97.85% bondholder approval and is linked to future grid investment. Banking Watch: The Bank of Zambia flagged rising non-performing loans among public workers, warning about off-payroll borrowing, misrepresentation and weak lender underwriting. Election Discipline & Bill 7: President Hichilema renewed calls for party loyalty after remarks targeting MPs who defied the party position on Bill 7, reigniting debate on collective responsibility and constitutional discipline. Free Education: Dora Siliya praised free education as a lifeline for poor learners, echoing claims that it has restored access to exams and reduced hunger-related school barriers. Defence & Politics: Zambia’s Defence Force was urged to stay non-partisan and uphold the rule of law as elections approach. Sports: Cameroon’s federation is reportedly considering Hervé Renard to replace David Pagou as Indomitable Lions coach. Corruption Cooperation: Zambia’s anti-corruption delegation concluded a study visit to Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor to share investigative and prosecution practices.

Constitutional Court Challenge: Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha has asked Zambia’s Constitutional Court to dismiss a petition challenging President Hakainde Hichilema’s eligibility to stand in the 2026 election, arguing he meets constitutional requirements and that internal UPND disputes can’t invalidate his nomination. Anti-Corruption Cooperation: Zambia’s ACC delegation has wrapped up a three-day study visit to Ghana’s Office of the Special Prosecutor, focusing on investigative methods, asset recovery, digital forensics, and prosecution strategies. Election Security Push: Zambia Police in Lusaka denied claims of bias in political violence cases, saying action depends on formal complaints and that officers will work with ECZ and parties to protect voters ahead of August 13. Campaign Season Warnings: President Hichilema urged UPND members not to declare victory early (“tawina kudala”) and Traditional Healers Association of Zambia warned politicians against paying for “election victory” charms. Sports—Volleyball: Zimbabwe women staged a comeback to beat Zambia 3-2 in a CAVB Zone VI dress rehearsal, setting up a decisive final rematch. Sports—Combat: Miracle Chipito says she’s mentally ready after face-offs with Heidi Ahmed ahead of PFL Africa in Lagos. Mining Safety: OHSI and Safety Champions Zambia held sensitisation for artisanal miners in Chingola on the Occupational Health and Safety Act No. 16 of 2025.

UPND Campaign Push: President Hakainde Hichilema urged UPND supporters to keep campaigning and avoid “tawina kudala,” warning elections are won by turnout and organisation, not premature celebration. Manifesto & Economy: He launched the UPND 2026 manifesto, pitching seven production targets to drive about US$65bn in annual value, alongside promises to cut the cost of living. Debt Relief Update: Zambia refinanced its second Eurobond, cutting annual debt servicing from about US$2.3bn to US$900m and freeing roughly US$1.4bn for programmes like free education and expanded Constituency Development Funds. Political Violence & Police Response: Police denied bias in handling political violence cases, saying action depends on formal complaints and investigations, while Tonse Alliance leaders renewed calls for a level playing field. Opposition Economic Debate: Socialist Party leader Fred M’membe attacked the advertised K179.99 mealie-meal price as an election “vote snare,” as economic messaging heats up. PeP Leadership Change: Patriots for Economic Progress (PeP) elected Eng. Chanda Katotobwe as president, replacing Sean Tembo, and vowed to focus on poverty reduction through industrialisation. Agriculture Results: Central Province reported maize output rising to over one million tonnes, crediting timely FISP inputs and extension support. Sports & Regional Ties: Zambia’s Lameck Banda extended his Lecce stay to 2027, while Zambia and Zimbabwe women’s volleyball teams set up a CAVB qualifier dress rehearsal ahead of finals.

UPND Manifesto & Election Push: President Hakainde Hichilema launched the UPND 2026 manifesto in Lusaka, promising faster growth, lower living costs and jobs—telling voters that if relatives are unemployed, they will be “among the next to be employed”—while outlining pillars on economy, connectivity, service delivery and financing the future. Public Gatherings Bill: The Law Association of Zambia welcomed HH’s decision to refer the Public Gatherings Bill back to Parliament, urging inclusive consultations with civil society, parties and the public. ECZ Court Challenge: ECZ, the Attorney General and Registrar of Societies told the Constitutional Court that HH is eligible to contest the August 13 election, saying he met nomination requirements. Tazara@50: Zambia and Tanzania’s railway authority unveiled month-long golden jubilee plans under “From Liberation to Transformation,” framing the 50th anniversary as a shift toward corridor-led economic transformation. Mining & Environment: Chinese-owned U-Metals in Chingola reportedly resumed operations after a shutdown over pollution concerns, reigniting environmental and public health debate. Army Social Media Warning: Zambia Army cautioned against misuse of social media and AI-generated content that could mislead the public or incite division. Culture 2030 Progress: Zambia reported progress on UNESCO Culture 2030 indicators, linking culture to heritage, education, jobs and inclusion. Sports: Harambee Starlets’ WAFCON preparations took a reality check after a Four Nations tournament showing, while Zesco’s George Lwandamina is reportedly set for a possible return as head coach.

UPND Alliance Politics: Former PF mobiliser Charity Banda says she “loves President HH” and won’t apologise for backing the ruling party, as more ex-opposition figures shift toward the UPND ahead of August polls. Election Courtroom Clash: The ECZ says Hichilema and running mate Mutale Nalumango met constitutional nomination requirements, responding to a court challenge by Charles Longwe. Unity vs Division: President Hichilema warns against “small groups” trying to polarise Zambia, urging national unity as reforms deliver results. Asset Disclosure Debate: State House says HH doesn’t need to be compelled to disclose assets, after Citizens First leader Harry Kalaba publicly declared K58 million. Mazabuka Tensions: Garry Nkombo alleges police intimidation and campaign suspension in Mazabuka, while Tonse Alliance women condemn the Chipata raid and ejection of an opposition candidate. Economy & Markets: SEC reports strong LuSE performance in Q1 2026, with the LASI up 5.29% and market cap rising to K341.87bn. Public Service Payments: Government releases K48m to settle ZAMPOST retirees’ terminal benefits. Health Alert: Health Ministry activates precautionary Ebola measures and advises against travel to affected countries.

Traditional Leadership & Unity: President Hakainde Hichilema hailed Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV as a unifier and patriot during the Chipata burial, praising his 44-year reign, support for Free Education and the Constituency Development Fund, and his push for unity across cultures. Investment & Jobs: Zambia Development Agency figures show diversification momentum since 2021, with manufacturing leading job creation and agriculture attracting about $643m in actualised investments. Retiree Welfare: Government released K48m to settle ZAMPOST retirees’ terminal benefits under a first-retired, first-paid process. Capital Markets: Bank of Zambia-linked improvements and falling inflation helped drive growth on the LuSE in Q1 2026, with equities up and investor numbers rising. SME Finance: BoZ committed K5bn to the Small Business Growth Initiative, targeting MSMEs with credit guarantees and support services. Power Stability: ZESCO says nationwide load shedding is not expected to return this year, citing better generation and stronger partnerships. Elections & Security: Police moved to curb electoral violence, with ECZ suspending campaigns in Mazabuka Central and arrests reported in Chawama. Sports: Zambia won the Four Nations Cup after beating Zimbabwe 3-0; Copper Queens coach Nora Hauptle says the team is on track for WAFCON in Morocco.

Postal Benefits: Government released K48 million to pay terminal benefits to Zambia Postal Services Corporation (ZAMPOST) retirees, with disbursements set on a first-retired, first-paid basis to ensure fairness and transparency. Water & Tax: Vice-President Mutale Nalumango says water treatment chemicals have been zero-rated to cut costs for utilities and improve access to safe drinking water, as Zambia pushes water and sanitation coverage under ZAWAFE. Mining Update: Shuka Minerals reports strong zinc grades from a third drill at Kabwe Zinc Mine and starts a fourth hole to test the orebody’s western extension. Sports—Women’s Football: Copper Queens thrashed Zimbabwe 3-0 to win the Four Nations Tournament, boosting confidence ahead of WAFCON, while Harambee Starlets settled for bronze after beating Lesotho. Sports—Volleyball: Olympic qualification heats up in Harare as Zambia and Zimbabwe men’s and women’s teams battle for the LA28 ticket. Politics & Elections: TI-Z urges investigations into alleged vote-buying and calls parties to publish 2026–2031 manifestos; meanwhile, ECZ suspended Mazabuka Central campaigns after violence concerns. Tech & Media: MTN launches One TV in Zambia and South Africa, aiming to compete with Netflix and YouTube Premium using low-cost viewing options.

Free Education Law: President Hakainde Hichilema has signed the Education (Amendment) Bill, 2026, making free education a legal right so no child is denied schooling over fees. Elections & Campaign Tensions: Opposition figures Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu allege police surrounded a hotel in Chipata during Paramount Chief Mpezeni’s funeral, sparking fresh claims of intimidation ahead of August polls. Chief Mpezeni Funeral Fallout: Hichilema urged Zambians to bury the dead with dignity, while debate continues over burial protocols and who should attend. Health & Borders: IOM’s “HIV Knows No Borders” initiative in Beitbridge is shifting attitudes on HIV testing and child protection among mobile communities. Energy & Finance: Zambia launched a grid resilience programme linked to a sovereign bond buyback deal involving the AfDB, aiming to modernise electricity distribution. Sports: Copper Queens beat Zimbabwe 3-0 to win the Four Nations tournament, with Prisca Chilufya scoring twice; meanwhile, Mighty Warriors set up a Zambezi showdown against Copper Queens in the final. Business & Trade: Zambia and Zimbabwe elevated ties via a bi-national commission, with a services business mission running June 9–11 in Lusaka.

Elections & Public Order: The ECZ has suspended all campaign activities in Mazabuka Central after violence concerns, including a police tear-gassing incident involving independent candidate Gary Nkombo, and also condemned disturbances in Kabwe Central and Chawama. Digital Governance: Zambia deepens its digital sovereignty push with a Huawei AI partnership to power AI infrastructure for government services across 25 ministries, including plans for a national data centre. Health & Safety: Vice President Mutale Nalumango says Zambia is on high alert to prevent Ebola from entering the country, citing lab testing and negative results on suspected cases, alongside public awareness efforts. Traditional Leadership: Zambia bids farewell to Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV, with President Hichilema expected in Eastern Province for the burial and calls for peace during mourning. Sports: FAZ president Keith Mweemba and Charles Chakatazya head to Mexico for the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony, while Zambia’s football leadership links the trip to FIFA business discussions. Business & Industry: Jubilee Metals resumes full Molefe mine-to-Sable refinery deliveries after expansion work, signalling progress in its Zambia copper strategy.

Digital Governance: Zambia is deepening its digital sovereignty with a Huawei AI partnership to support AI and national cloud infrastructure across 25 ministries, including plans for a national data centre to keep critical data in-country. Elections & Misinformation: The ECZ has urged voters to verify information before sharing, refuting an AI-generated video claiming ECZ chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis was arrested and stressing no ballot papers have been printed. Ebola Preparedness: Vice President Mutale Nalumango says Zambia is on high alert to prevent Ebola entry from the DRC, with testing already in place and negative results from suspected cases, while UNICEF scales up supplies in the region. Wildlife Conservation: KAZA states meeting in Victoria Falls is pushing a united front on wildlife conservation and elephant trade, with EU funding to update regional conservation plans. Politics & Courts: The Mabumba Royal Establishment demands the release of detained Liberal Democrats candidate Xavier Chungu, alleging bail was ignored and he was re-arrested. Local Campaign Tensions: Police and independent candidate Gary Nkombo trade accusations over a cancelled Mazabuka campaign launch, with claims of teargas and harassment. Business & Skills: The Entrepreneurship Train initiative is set to mentor young entrepreneurs on a train route from Lusaka to Livingstone, while ZMA warns against fear-mongering that hospitals are “k!ll!ng people.”

Elections 2026 Watch: A new ISS Today analysis warns Zambia’s August 13 polls could be judged through legal manoeuvres rather than ballots, with ECZ capacity and opposition fragmentation set to be tested as 26 presidential candidates vie for victory. Campaign Clash in Mazabuka: Police and independent candidate Gary Nkombo trade accusations after police used tear gas to disrupt his campaign launch, citing an unauthorized venue and schedule breach. ECZ Symbol Controversy: Dr. Larry Mweetwa says ECZ’s move to interfere with the “Candle” symbol for independents could trigger a constitutional crisis, raising concerns over fairness and political rights. Ebola Preparedness: Vice President Mutale Nalumango says Zambia is on high alert, with testing systems operational and no confirmed cases linked to the current DRC outbreak. Lake Kariba Boundary Marking: Zambia and Zimbabwe are preparing to install floating buoys to make the Lake Kariba boundary visible and reduce fisher conflicts. Sports & Pride: Zambia’s Jereem Richards won bronze at the Diamond League in Stockholm, while Team Zambia closed SACA U18-U20s with seven medals. Women’s Football Build-up: Super Falcons coach Justine Madugu says the team will be more aggressive against Senegal in a second friendly ahead of WAFCON in Morocco.

Police & Elections: Zambia Police dismissed social media claims linking Chawama OIC Francis Mulundu’s transfer to recent violence, saying the reports are false and part of routine postings. Campaign Tensions: Separate reports say five people were arrested after clashes between Tonse Pamodzi Alliance and UPND supporters in Chawama left injuries and damage, with investigations ongoing. ConCourt Politics: UPND SG Batuke Imenda and President Hichilema asked the Constitutional Court to dismiss a petition challenging Hichilema’s eligibility for the August 13 polls. UPND Internal Fallout: UPND says Gary Nkombo is no longer a party member after filing as an independent, warning against burning party regalia. NAPSA Reform: An explainer breaks down NAPSA’s biggest shake-up in 30 years, including more flexible access to pension savings and higher minimum payouts. Sports (Zambia): Copper Queens beat Kenya on penalties after a 1-1 draw to reach the Four Nations final; Mighty Warriors set up a derby final against Zambia after beating Lesotho 3-1. Athletics: Zakithi Nene wins Stockholm Diamond League 400m; Sinesipho Dambile takes silver in the 200m. Business/Tech: Energia appoints Tai Oshisanya as independent non-executive director; Zambia’s sports stadium is poised for CAF clearance.

Election Courtroom Drama: UPND SG Batuke Imenda and President Hakainde Hichilema asked the Constitutional Court to dismiss a petition challenging HH’s August candidature, calling it an abuse of process. Running Mate Qualifications: ECZ told the court that Socialist Party candidate Fred M’membe’s running mate Dolika Banda lacks a Grade 12 equivalent because her O-Level certificate reportedly has no English, with AG Mulilo Kabesha urging invalidation. Party Fallout in Mazabuka: UPND says Gary Nkombo is no longer a member after resigning late and filing as an independent; the party also warns against a planned regalia-burning event. Traditional Affairs: Ngoni leaders say Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV will be buried at Ephendukeni Kraal, not the Feni royal grave site, citing custom. Sports—Women’s Football: Zambia’s Copper Queens beat Kenya 4-1 on penalties to reach the Four Nations final against Zimbabwe, while Zimbabwe’s Mighty Warriors also booked the final after a 3-1 win over Lesotho. Social Policy—NAPSA: An explainer outlines NAPSA’s biggest shake-up in 30 years, including new flexibility for accessing part of pension benefits and higher minimum payouts.

Election Politics: NRPUP presidential candidate Brian Mundubile stepped up outreach in Lusaka, telling aspiring candidates from Southern Province that Zambia’s biggest fight is against political, regional and tribal division as he pushes a “national movement” for unity. Party Discipline: UPND secretary general Batuke Imenda ordered Mazabuka members to disassociate from independent candidate Gary Nkombo, alleging he plans to publicly burn UPND regalia and warning it is a criminal offence. Court Challenge: The Constitutional Court is hearing a petition over Socialist Party running mate Dolika Banda’s qualifications, with ECZ arguing her O-Level certificate lacks English Language required for Grade 12 equivalence, while the Attorney-General urges invalidation of her nomination. Sports—Women’s Football: Zambia’s Copper Queens reached the Four Nations final in Ndola after beating Kenya on penalties, and will face Zimbabwe after the earlier Zimbabwe- Lesotho win. Governance & Social Policy: Government released additional Constituency Development Fund money—bringing 2026 disbursements to K2.2 billion—and President Hichilema signed free education and pension reforms into law.

Free Education Push: President Hakainde Hichilema signed the Free Education and Pension Bills into law, locking in free schooling for millions and building on the return of 2.6 million learners since 2021, with school feeding also expanded. Local Development Funding: Government released an extra K500 million for the Constituency Development Fund, taking 2026 disbursements to K2.2 billion, with projects already approved across all 116 local authorities. Election Court Drama: The Constitutional Court is hearing a challenge to Socialist Party running mate Dolika Banda’s nomination over alleged Grade 12 qualification and equivalence requirements. Political Realignment: PF faction leader Miles Sampa endorsed Hichilema for August, citing achievements including free education and pension reforms. Traditional Leadership & Unity: As Zambia mourns Paramount Chief Mpezeni, leaders urged citizens to stay united and avoid division. Sports—LA28 Road: Zambia is set to host Zone VI volleyball qualifiers in Harare next week, with Zambia among the teams chasing LA28 qualification.