AGP Executive Report

UPND Manifesto Launch: President Hakainde Hichilema is set to unveil the UPND’s 2026 election manifesto, promising faster economic growth, lower cost of living and more jobs, with claims that free education and meal support will continue if voters back the party. Election Court Battle: The Constitutional Court hears arguments that Hichilema is eligible to stand on the UPND ticket, with ECZ and the Attorney General saying he met all nomination requirements. Public Gathering Bill: State House says Hichilema declined to assent and sent the Public Gathering Bill back to Parliament over constitutional concerns about rights and freedoms. Debt and Eurobond Buyback: CTPD praises Zambia’s strong Eurobond buyback participation rate, saying it supports improved debt management and confidence, while noting long-term savings need deeper analysis. Tazara@50: Tazara announces month-long celebrations of its 50th anniversary, framing the “Uhuru Railway” as moving from liberation symbolism to economic transformation. Security Warning: The Zambia Army cautions the public against misuse of social media and AI-generated content that could mislead people and threaten peace. Environment Enforcement: Chinese-owned U-Metals in Chingola resumes operations after being shut over pollution concerns, reigniting debate on environmental compliance. Sports—WAFCON Prep: Harambee Starlets’ mixed Four Nations results leave them needing tougher work ahead of WAFCON, while Zambia’s football scene also watches coaching talk around Lwandamina’s possible return to Zesco.

Currency Outlook: Traders expect the Ghanaian cedi and Zambia’s kwacha to strengthen against the dollar next week, supported by improved liquidity and stronger copper prices. Public Order Law: Zambia’s Law Association of Zambia says it welcomes President Hichilema’s decision to refer the Public Gatherings Bill back to Parliament, urging inclusive consultations to protect constitutional freedoms. Election Politics & Courts: The ECZ defends Hichilema’s nomination before the Constitutional Court, saying all requirements were met, as an eligibility petition continues. Campaign Tensions: Independent candidate Gary Nkombo says police surrounded his Mazabuka home and he will seek explanations, while other political figures continue to trade accusations over campaign fairness and intimidation. Health Alert: Zambia’s Health Ministry activates Ebola precautionary measures, including screening at border points. Economy & Markets: The SEC reports strong capital market performance in Q1 2026, with the LuSE All Share Index up and market capitalisation rising. Water Project: Zambia and Germany plan a €6m water security project for the Kafue River to tackle pollution and improve access.

Unity & Culture: President Hichilema paid tribute to late Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV, calling him a unifier and patriot whose 44-year reign elevated Nc’wala and backed national development. Investment & Jobs: Zambia Development Agency data shows diversification since 2021, with manufacturing leading job creation and over US$16bn in actualised investments across sectors. ZAMPOST Benefits: Government released K48m to settle terminal benefits for ZAMPOST retirees in a first-retired, first-paid process. Campaign Trail: Hichilema visited Kapiri Mposhi to inspect projects at Mulungushi University and engage communities and aspiring candidates. Public Gatherings Bill: The President refused to assent and sent the Public Gathering Bill back to Parliament, citing constitutional and judicial inconsistencies. Ebola Alert: Health authorities issued travel advisories urging avoidance of Ebola-hit countries and heightened caution across other high-risk states, including Zambia. Capital Markets: Bank of Zambia-backed SME finance and SEC reports point to stronger LuSE performance and growing investor participation. Elections Security: Police and IG Musamba announced arrests and intensified operations after political violence in Mazabuka, Chawama and Kabwe. Sports: Wedson Nyirenda was unveiled as head coach of Malawi’s FCB Nyasa Big Bullets.

Retiree Payments: Government has released K48 million to settle terminal benefits for Zambia Postal Services Corporation (ZAMPOST) retirees, with disbursement set on a first-retired, first-paid basis to ensure fairness. Water Sector Tax Relief: Vice-President Mutale Nalumango says water treatment chemicals have been zero-rated for tax, cutting costs for water utilities and supporting wider access to safe drinking water. Mining Update (Kabwe Zinc): Shuka Minerals says it has completed the third drill hole at Kabwe’s No. 2 zinc orebody, returning 29.58% zinc over 19m, and has started a fourth hole to test extensions. Elections & Campaign Climate: ECZ suspended Mazabuka Central campaigns after violence concerns, while Gary Nkombo says police should leave him alone as he seeks to campaign freely. Court Matters: A Lusaka court convicted a man for indecent assault on his seven-year-old daughter at a hospital, committing him for sentencing. Sports (Women’s Football): Zambia’s Copper Queens won the Four Nations title after beating Zimbabwe 3-0, with Prisca Chilufya scoring twice; the Mighty Warriors also lost the final 3-0 to Zambia. Telecom & Markets: Airtel Zambia crossed US$1bn market capitalisation on the LuSE, becoming the fourth “unicorn” on the exchange.

Mazabuka & Chawama Security: Police reinforced security and suspended campaigns in Mazabuka Central after violence concerns, while opposition figures traded accusations over alleged targeting and regalia-linked unrest. Free Education Becomes Law: President Hakainde Hichilema assented to the Education (Amendment) Bill, 2026, making free education a legal right so children can’t be denied schooling over fees. Mpezeni Funeral Fallout: As Zambia mourned Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV, former minister Godfridah Sumaili alleged police terrorised mourners at a Chipata hotel, sparking fresh political heat. Copper Queens Win: Prisca Chilufya inspired Zambia to lift the Four Nations title in Ndola, beating Zimbabwe 3-0 in the final. Energy & Debt Link: Zambia launched a sovereign bond buyback tied to a grid resilience programme, committing up to $275m over 15 years to modernise electricity distribution. Elections & Symbols: Independent candidates complained after ECZ withdrew the candle symbol, saying it disrupted campaigns and costs.

Eurobond Update: Fitch says Zambia’s US$1.36bn Eurobond buyback is not a distressed exchange, noting the tender aims at redemption and depends on IMF debt-capacity outcomes. Food Prices: Mealie meal prices have eased to about K220–K230 nationwide as millers cut rates after a bumper harvest and a stronger kwacha. Health & Services: Kasama General Hospital will start advanced kidney care after training local staff, reducing the need for patients to travel to Lusaka. Energy & Public Sector: Government has commissioned an Energy Regulation Board 197KW solar system to boost renewable power use in public institutions. Elections & Peace: ECZ suspended Mazabuka Central campaigns following violence concerns, including clashes involving independent candidate Gary Nkombo. Governance: Chief Justice Mumba Malila urged newly appointed judges to avoid partisan politics and protect the Judiciary’s independence. Sports (Local): Copper Queens and Zimbabwe set for a Four Nations final in Ndola as Zambia targets WAFCON preparation.

Ebola Watch: Zambia is on high alert after the deadly Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo, with Vice President Mutale Nalumango saying tests on suspected cases have returned negative and preparedness measures are being strengthened nationwide. Health Infrastructure: Construction of the Michael Chilufya Sata General Hospital in Mpika is set to resume after re-tendering, with government confirming Phase Two works will begin. Elections & Misinformation: ECZ has urged voters to verify information before sharing, refuting claims that its chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis was arrested and warning of AI-generated misinformation ahead of August 13 polls. Police & Political Tensions: Police and opposition figures trade accusations over Mazabuka campaign disruptions involving independent candidate Gary Nkombo, while UPND says he is no longer a member after resigning and filing as an independent. Wildlife Conservation: Zambia is part of KAZA’s push for a united front on wildlife conservation and elephant trade, as ministers meet in Victoria Falls. Entrepreneurship Boost: The Ministry of SMEs backs the Entrepreneurship Train, a mobile mentorship programme taking selected young entrepreneurs by train to Livingstone.

Lake Kariba Border Clarity: Zambia and Zimbabwe are set to install floating buoys to make the international boundary on Lake Kariba visible, aiming to cut down long-running clashes among fishermen and boat operators. Mazabuka Campaign Tensions: Police used tear gas to disrupt independent parliamentary candidate Gary Nkombo’s Mazabuka Central campaign launch, saying he breached the agreed schedule; Nkombo disputes this and claims political persecution. Elections Watch: The Electoral Commission of Zambia has ordered independent candidates to replace “candle” and other light-based symbols, warning ballot preparations could be disrupted if they don’t comply by June 10, while also denying claims that its chairperson was arrested. Ebola Preparedness: Government says it remains on high alert as WHO hands over Ebola preparedness supplies, and Vice President Mutale Nalumango reiterates Zambia has recorded no confirmed Ebola cases linked to the current regional outbreak. Mining & Power Deal: Zambia is linking sovereign bond buyback to an AfDB-backed Grid Resilience Programme to strengthen electricity distribution and modernise the grid. Local Economy & Business: Omnia reports higher dividends and earnings growth, while ZESCO says power generation remains stable and supply will meet demand. Sports: Zambia’s athletes end SACA U18-U20 Championships with seven medals, and Super Falcons step up preparations for WAFCON with another friendly against Senegal.

Elections & Governance: The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has banned independent candidates from using candle, lamps or any light-based symbols, saying the “candle” symbol clashes with a registered party symbol, and has summoned affected candidates to submit replacements by Wednesday, 10 June. Public Safety: Police dismissed social media claims linking Chawama OIC Francis Mulundu’s transfer to recent violence, saying the reports are false and routine postings were already planned. Health: The World Health Organization handed Zambia a $22,000 Ebola preparedness medical supplies consignment, including PPE and lab reagents, to strengthen detection and response and support a wider continental plan. Water & Health Services: Government released K69.6 million to upgrade UTH’s water reticulation system, including a new supply line and alternative energy for boreholes. Sports (Women’s Football): Zambia’s Copper Queens booked the Four Nations final after beating Kenya 4-1 on penalties following a 1-1 draw; star Barbra Banda missed the Kenya match with a hamstring strain, and Zambia will face Zimbabwe in the final. Security (Western Province): At least seven people were killed in an armed attack on a remote Western Province village, with houses set on fire; investigations are underway.

Western Province Violence: Armed bandits attacked a remote village in Zambia’s Western Province early Saturday, killing at least seven people, including an infant, after setting houses on fire; police say investigations are ongoing. UTH Water Upgrade: Government released K69.6 million for a year-long rehabilitation and upgrade of the University Teaching Hospital water reticulation system, including a dedicated supply line and alternative energy for boreholes during power outages. Women’s Football: Zambia’s Copper Queens booked the Four Nations final in Ndola, beating Kenya 4-1 on penalties after a 1-1 draw; they face Zimbabwe, who beat Lesotho 3-1. Four Nations—Zimbabwe Advance: Zimbabwe’s Mighty Warriors also reached the final, defeating Lesotho 3-1, setting up a Zambia vs Zimbabwe women’s derby. Elections & Courts: UPND SG Batuke Imenda and President Hichilema asked the Constitutional Court to dismiss a petition challenging HH’s eligibility, arguing it abuses court process; meanwhile, ECZ urged parties to familiarise themselves with the new Electoral Process Act. Political Tensions: Police reported five arrests after a Chawama political clash, with charges including assault and malicious damage. Ebola Preparedness: WHO handed Zambia medical supplies worth $22,000 to strengthen preparedness and response for Ebola threats in the region. NAPSA Reform Explainer: A new NAPSA law brings major pension changes, including more flexibility for contributors and higher minimum payouts. Sports—Local Judo: GBJC dominated the MUSA National League Lusaka All Categories tournament at OYDC Judo Hall, leading the medal and club standings.

Ebola Preparedness: WHO has handed Zambia medical supplies worth $22,000 to boost readiness for Ebola threats from the DRC and Uganda, including PPE, specimen transport materials and lab reagents. Election Tensions in Lusaka: Police arrested five people after a Chawama clash between UPND and Tonse Pamodzi Alliance supporters, following reports of an attack and ransacking of a UPND ward office. Court Challenge to Nomination: ECZ told the Constitutional Court that Socialist Party running mate Dolika Banda lacks a Grade 12-equivalent qualification because her O-Level certificate reportedly does not include English, with the AG urging the court to invalidate her nomination. Political Realignments: UPND ordered Mazabuka members to disassociate from independent candidate Gary Nkombo, saying he is no longer a party member. Sports—Copper Queens: Zambia beat Kenya on penalties to reach the Four Nations final in Ndola, setting up a final against Zimbabwe. Health/UN Recognition: The UN honoured two Zambian peacekeepers who died serving with MINUSCA.

Election & Courts: The Kazembe Lunda Royal Establishment has demanded the immediate release of detained former ZSIS boss Xavier Chungu, saying bail was granted by the High Court but police kept him in custody and later re-arrested him on fresh charges. Politics & Campaigns: PF leader Miles Sampa says he was fired by the Bank of Zambia in 2010 “like a common criminal” and now backs President Hakainde Hichilema for August 13, arguing the choice is based on performance, not tribal politics. Governance & Spending: Government has released an additional K500m Constituency Development Fund, bringing 2026 disbursements to K2.2bn, with thousands of projects approved and roads, classrooms and health facilities among the priorities. Education & Pensions: Hichilema signed free education and pension-related bills into law, with ZCTU and CSOs weighing in as debate continues over reforms and the wider election climate. Economy: The kwacha has strengthened, breaking the K18 per US dollar mark and trading in the K17 range, as recovery gains momentum. Sports: Zambia’s Mighty Warriors and other regional teams are in action ahead of key qualifiers and WAFCON preparations.

World Environment Day: Zambia’s mining pollution victims, especially in Kabwe, are calling for real action as lead and other toxic waste continue to harm children and workers despite government licences and public “be part of the solution” messaging. Health & Rights: Africa CDC warns several countries including Zambia are at risk from Ebola, underlining how hard it is to stop outbreaks once they start. Education Policy: Zambia’s “earn-and-learn” model needs a rethink as higher education shifts toward students who must work to survive, pushing universities to redesign support and learning pathways. Elections & Governance: The ECZ urges stakeholders to study the new Electoral Process Amendment Act No. 12 of 2026, which expands proportional representation to local councils. Sports: Zambia is drawn in Nigeria’s Group C for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, after Toni Payne ended a near five-year goal drought in a Senegal friendly. Tourism: President Hichilema backs tourism as a development engine as ZATEX opens, targeting 2.5m visitors and $1bn revenue.

Election & Courts: The ECZ told the Constitutional Court it received concerns from the Examinations Council about Socialist Party running mate Dolika Banda’s Grade 12 status on May 21, but said it had already completed nomination validation and is now functus officio. Political Tensions: Former UPND Mazabuka MP Gary Nkombo has resigned from the party, citing an alleged assault and saying he will contest as an independent. Traditional Affairs: President Hichilema has accorded Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV an official funeral and declared June 9 a national day of mourning. Governance & Services: Government has assented to five bills covering free education and pension reforms, with NAPSA and unions welcoming the changes. Economy & Energy: ZCCM-IH signed with Chinese-owned Wonderful Group Services to build a 600MW coal plant to ease Zambia’s power shortfall. Business & Trade: ZimTrade will send over 30 Zimbabwean services firms to Lusaka for a mission targeting Zambia’s agriculture and construction market. Regulation: ZRA denies impounding Tonse Alliance campaign materials, while the IBA says it did not ban the Mundubile/Makebi campaign song.

Healthcare & Regulation: Senior health officials from across the region met in Nairobi to discuss safer use of nuclear and radiation technologies in healthcare, with Zambia among the participating countries. Pensions & Education: President Hakainde Hichilema signed five Bills into law, including four pension reform laws to raise minimum pensions and support NAPSA members, plus an Education Amendment Bill. Environment & Green Growth: ZEMA approved 103 development projects, including 300MW solar initiatives and recycling plants, ahead of World Environment Day. Food Security: The Office of the Vice President’s Resettlement Division has started harvesting maize at Kanakantapa, targeting over 700 bags for sale to the Food Reserve Agency. Copper & Industry: Vedanta-linked CopperTech Metals filed for a New York IPO, while Barrick and First Quantum continue backing Zambia’s copper expansion and Jubilee Metals reported Roan concentrator operations returning to full capacity. Traditional Leadership: Zambia declared an official funeral for Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV, with repatriation and burial arrangements underway. Public Health Supplies: Government received a bulk medicines consignment from Egypt via ZAMMSA to strengthen access in public facilities. Regional Mobility: Zambia repatriated 40 citizens from South Africa amid anti-immigration tensions.

Constitutional Court: Zambia’s Constitutional Court has set June 19 to hear a petition challenging President Hakainde Hichilema’s candidature, with the case questioning whether the UPND held a valid convention before adopting him. High Court Election Ruling: The Lusaka High Court dismissed an election petition seeking to disqualify 101 independent parliamentary candidates, ruling it was filed improperly for failing to meet required election-petition documents. Free Education & Pensions: President Hichilema is set to sign five bills into law today, including the Education (Amendment) Bill and pension reforms that raise the minimum monthly pension from K1,861 to K2,327. Kwacha Gains: The kwacha has strengthened further, trading in the K17.9 range per US dollar as copper earnings, a bumper harvest outlook, and improved debt management support recovery. Copper Sector Relief: Zambia has extended the 10% export duty waiver on copper concentrates to September 30 to ease stockpiles while smelters remain under maintenance. Mining & Industry: Jubilee’s Roan concentrator has restarted at full capacity after maintenance, targeting 30,000 tonnes of ore per month, while a Serbian firm FPM Agromehanika plans a Lusaka plant to assemble agricultural machinery for the region. Public Safety & Integrity: ZRA has dismissed social media claims it impounded political party goods, saying investigations found them false, and the ACC prosecutor appeared in court over alleged theft of K20,000 from its exhibits office. Sports: Zambia hosts the Four Nations women’s tournament this weekend, with Copper Queens and visiting teams using the games as preparation for WAFCON.