AGP Executive Report

National Mourning: Zambia marks five days of national mourning for former Vice President Guy Scott, with flags half-mast and entertainment programming cancelled or postponed until Monday’s interment in Lusaka. Election Tension in Lusaka: Opposition presidential candidate Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu drew big crowds on a Lusaka roadshow, but police fired teargas during the campaign, with Mundubile calling it intimidation. EU Election Monitoring Push: Mundubile presented a 10-point dossier to the EU Election Observation Mission, urging wider international monitoring ahead of the 13 August polls. Music & Awards Buzz: AFRIMMA 2026 nominees are out after a two-year break, with Davido leading the pack, followed by Burna Boy, Black Sherif and Diamond Platnumz. Streaming for Entertainment Fans: eMedia has launched Openview Stream, a free ad-supported FAST service rolling out across seven countries including Zambia. Sports Spotlight: Malawi’s Scorchers prepare for their historic first WAFCON appearance, while Zambia’s sprint star Muzala Samukonga defends his title in Hungary.

Health & AI Regulation: Portugal has become the first EU member state to join HealthAI’s Global Regulatory Network, a move meant to push safer, fairer AI use in health systems. Electoral Transparency: Zambia’s ECZ is praised for opening up ballot paper printing in Dubai, letting parties, civil society and media verify key steps, including Braille jackets for voters. Sports Medals: Zambia celebrated 155 sports medals at mid-year, led by Judo Association of Zambia with 56. Track & Field: Muzala Samukonga defended his Gyulai István Memorial 400m title in Hungary with a 44.02 Season’s Best. Women’s Football (WAFCON): Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie says there are no “minnows” at WAFCON and urges a match-by-match approach as teams arrive in Morocco. Music (AFRIMMA): Davido leads 2026 AFRIMMA nominations with five nods, as the awards return with a Dallas music festival. Streaming & Media: eMedia launched Openview Stream, a free ad-supported FAST service rolling out across several African countries including Zambia. Public Safety: Police in Lusaka are investigating suspected child trafficking after three missing children were found safe following an intelligence-led operation. Politics & Church: Zambians are reacting to a Catholic priest accused of turning a sermon into a political campaign platform.

Zambia mourns Guy Scott: Former Vice-President and Acting President Dr. Guy Lindsay Scott has died at 82 in Lusaka after a short illness, with President Hichilema announcing a State Funeral. Music & streaming buzz: Spotify data puts South African R&B star Tyla at the top of 2025 charts, while eMedia and RunnTV launch Openview Stream, a free ad-supported FAST service rolling out across Zambia and six other countries. AFRIMMA returns: The African Muzik Magazine Awards unveil 2026 nominees after a two-year break, with Davido leading the pack and a new AFRIMMA festival planned in Dallas. WAFCON focus: Nigeria’s Chiamaka Nnadozie urges Super Falcons to stay focused “one match at a time” as Zambia’s Barbra Banda is among CAF’s Stars Spotlight webinar guests ahead of WAFCON in Morocco. Local entertainment & business tech: FastClaims launches in Zambia to speed up motor insurance claims using AI. Sports on the move: Zambia’s Muzala Samukonga and Zakithi Nene feature in recent 400m results from Budapest. Public life: DEC denies claims of a political arrest order involving Brian Mundubile.

WAFCON Buzz: CAF will host the second “Stars Spotlight” webinar on 15 July ahead of WAFCON in Morocco, featuring Zambia’s Barbra Banda alongside Nigeria’s Asisat Oshoala, South Africa’s Refiloe Jane, Malawi’s Tabitha Chawinga and others—an early hype moment for African women’s football. Copper Queens Update: Zambia’s government says it has started dismantling Copper Queens’ owed dues and will clear outstanding allowances before the team’s WAFCON campaign, while FAZ confirms preparations and Zambia’s Group C fixtures vs Nigeria, Malawi and Egypt. Entertainment Tech: eMedia has launched Openview Stream, a free ad-supported streaming (FAST) service across Africa, pushing live TV and streaming without subscriptions. Sports Spotlight: Kenya’s Junior Starlets kept rising after a big win over South Africa to qualify for the 2026 U-17 Women’s World Cup, showing the next wave of talent across the region. Business & Media: FastClaims Solutions officially launches in Zambia to speed up motor insurance claims using AI-powered processing. Local Recognition: Kitwe’s Termites Meat Suppliers wins Leading Distributor of Meat Products in Southern Africa at SABQA in Lusaka.

Digital Insurance Expansion: FastClaims Solutions says Africa is ready for digital insurance, launching its AI-powered FastClaims Partnering Insurtech in Zambia and planning talks across Mozambique, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana and Zimbabwe. WAFCON Build-Up: Nigeria’s Super Falcons begin early camp in Casablanca, with captain Rasheedat Ajibade, Asisat Oshoala and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie among first arrivals; they’ll face Ghana in a friendly before Group C matches that include Zambia. Copper Queens WAFCON Prep: Zambia’s Copper Queens name a provisional squad and head to Algeria for friendlies ahead of the Morocco tournament. Streaming for Africa: eMedia unveils Openview Stream, a free ad-supported FAST platform bringing live TV and streaming across Africa. Tourism in Kafue: Anantara launches its first tented safari camp, Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River, inside Kafue National Park with solar-powered, low-impact stays. Sports Spotlight: Zakithi Nene takes third in the men’s 400m in Budapest, behind Zambia’s Muzala Samukonga. Opinion & Politics: Debate heats up ahead of August elections, with multiple opinion pieces and campaign claims dominating headlines.

WAFCON Focus: Nigeria’s Super Falcons kick off preparations in Casablanca with early arrivals including captain Rasheedat Ajibade and goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, with the team promising a “one match at a time” approach as they chase an 11th title and World Cup qualification. Zambia Football Spotlight: FAZ celebrates Zambia’s Copper Princesses for qualifying for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after a 1-1 draw with Ethiopia sealed qualification on aggregate. New Music Round-Up: KEXP’s New Music Reviews spotlight fresh releases like Baby Rose’s “YEARNALISM” and Kelela’s “new avatar,” giving DJs a taste of what’s next. Streaming & Media: eMedia launches Openview Stream, Africa’s first independent FAST platform, rolling out in Zambia and several other countries. Zambia Tourism & Luxury: Anantara opens its first tented safari camp in Zambia—Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River—bringing a new luxury stay inside Kafue National Park. Local Sports Transfers: Red Arrows confirm five new acquisitions ahead of the transitional season, including striker Eliya Mandanji and defender Owen Mwamba.

WAFCON Focus: Zambia’s Copper Queens are gearing up for TotalEnergies Women’s AFCON Morocco 2026, with a new campaign under coach Nora Häuptle and a clear aim to go beyond their best-ever third-place finish. Youth Football: Zambia also celebrated qualification for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup after holding Ethiopia 1-1 in Addis Ababa, advancing 3-2 on aggregate—FAZ President Keith Mweemba praised the team’s discipline and character. Local Football Transfers: Red Arrows confirmed five new signings ahead of the transitional season, adding striker Eliya Mandanji, forward Munda Phiri, defender Owen Mwamba, plus midfielder Elvis Mulenga and left back Amon Chulu. Streaming & Media: eMedia launched Openview Stream, Africa’s first independent FAST streaming platform, rolling out across Zambia and several other countries. African Cinema: Lusaka hosted the sold-out premiere of “77: The Festac Conspiracy,” a political thriller sequel tied to FESTAC ’77, spotlighting the growing momentum of African film. Sports & Culture Tech: Radiant diGiLog introduced a referral partner programme to turn trusted networks into business opportunities, with commissions for new customer subscriptions.

Entertainment & Culture (Zambia): Ten young Zambian performers are set to take “Afronauts” to Europe, a theatre production inspired by Edward Mukuka Nkoloso and Zambia’s 1960s space programme, with performances lined up for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and dates across the UK and Ireland. Music & Sports (Zambia): A Chambishi Copper Mine anthem has gone viral after workers recognised it as “our song,” with the NFCA band behind the stadium-style track that’s being compared to a World Cup vibe online. Football (Zambia): Former Copper Queens coach Bruce Mwape has been laid to rest in Chingola, with government and football stakeholders praising his role in building women’s football in Zambia. Politics & Entertainment (Zambia): Hichilema’s Eastern Province rally sparked debate after a bear-costumed performer in UPND regalia appeared alongside the President, while chants for musician Yo Maps added to the entertainment-politics mix. Health & Tech (Zambia): Zambia’s AI-for-Good conversation highlights how AI could support healthcare access, with young Zambians involved in the global push.

HIV & Health: Zambia’s rollout conversation is heating up after reports on lenacapavir (LEN) sparked questions on what the twice-yearly HIV prevention injection can and can’t do—highlighting the need for clearer public education alongside ARVs. Football & Tributes: Former Copper Queens coach Bruce Mwape was laid to rest in Chingola after his death following a short illness, with FAZ and government officials attending and Hichilema’s condolences read. Arts & Culture Abroad: Circus Zambia’s “Afronauts” is set for a Europe tour (England, Ireland, Netherlands) and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, bringing a Zambian story inspired by Edward Mukuka Nkoloso and the 1960s space programme. ICT & Awards: SPARC Systems (Africa) won two top honours at the Southern Africa Brand Quality Awards in Lusaka, including Leading ICT Solutions Provider of the Year. Sports Spotlight: Zambia’s football scene also gets a boost as Copper Princesses head to Ethiopia and FAZ preparations continue for major women’s competitions. Politics Meets Entertainment: Hichilema’s Eastern Province rally sparked debate after a bear-costume performer and popular music moments went viral, raising questions about campaign style and celebrity pull.

Music & Culture: Producer Xulfi’s Humnava residency is bringing Algerian desert blues, Pakistani folk and even Zambian talent together in Pakistan’s Hunza, with 10 weekly tracks released and a mission to turn the country into a hub for cross-border collaboration. Election Watch (Zambia): ECZ praised political parties and CSOs for unity during ballot printing in Dubai, while Lusaka Rural’s rallies are getting a pop-culture twist with a giant UPND teddy bear mascot leading the campaign vibe. Sports (Women’s Football): Zambia’s WAFCON build-up continues as Fazili names a 23-player Scorchers squad for Morocco, and Nigeria’s Plumptre confirms she’ll miss the tournament after foot surgery. Tech & Youth: Airtel Africa says it will connect 5,000 schools with free internet by 2027, and students in Mzuzu complain rising data costs are squeezing learning. Arts & Community: Africa Creative Market 2026 wrapped in Lusaka after six days of talks and the KWIMBO National Arts Festival, pushing Zambia as a creative and digital economy powerhouse. Health/Impact: A University of Sydney group delivered 1,000 menstrual cups to rural Zambia, reporting improved attendance. Aviation Safety (Zambia): Reports keep swirling after VP Mutale Nalumango’s helicopter crash-landing in Nakonde, with calls for calm and proper investigations.

UPND Campaign Watch: Lusaka Rural is roaring as President Hakainde Hichilema’s tour continues, with a giant dancing UPND teddy bear becoming a travelling crowd magnet. Election Rules Reminder: UPND has cautioned members against covering vehicle number plates with campaign posters, saying it’s unlawful and must respect traffic laws. Politics & Courts: Lusaka Magistrates’ Court set August 10 for a ruling in Raphael Nakacinda’s seditious case, tied to allegations he failed to comply with an ECZ summon. Health & Youth: Government says it will employ 2,600 health workers nationwide, with recruitment adverts planned for July 14. Digital Access: Airtel Africa targets connecting 5,000 schools by 2027 to tackle the online learning gap caused by high internet costs. Sports (Women’s Football): Ashleigh Plumptre confirms she’ll miss WAFCON 2026 due to a foot recovery setback, leaving Nigeria’s defence with a gap. Media & Culture: Africa Creative Market 2026 wrapped up in Lusaka after six days of talks and collaboration, pushing Zambia as a creative and digital economy hub. Aviation Shock: Zambia’s VP Mutale Nalumango survived a helicopter crash shortly after take-off in Nakonde, with all eight aboard reported safe.

Court & Politics: Lusaka Magistrates’ Court set August 10 for a ruling in Raphael Nakacinda’s seditious practices case, after the ECZ asked him to substantiate claims made in the Daily Nation. Election Rules: ECZ says running mate resignations will be handled after the August polls, and the winner will be declared within 72 hours of the last polling station closing. Health Workforce: Government plans to hire 2,600 health workers nationwide, with adverts expected to run from July 14 for three weeks. Digital Education: Airtel Africa targets connecting 5,000 schools across 14 countries by 2027 with free internet via UNICEF, building on 3,296 already connected in Zambia and beyond. Football & Women’s AFCON: Nigeria’s Super Falcons coach Justine Madugu names a 25-player squad to defend the Women AFCON title in Morocco, with Zambia in Group C. Zambia Football: Zanaco Ladies part ways with head coach Florence Mwila after five years; FAZ also mourns former Copper Queens coach Bruce Mwape. Sports & Community: Nkwazi begin preparations for the 2026 Transition League after returning to training. Entertainment & Film: British-Indian actor Himesh Patel lands a major role in Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ as Eurylochus.

Football & Culture: Nkwazi FC are back in training at Imboela Stadium as they build toward the 2026 Transition League, with coach Masauso Tembo pushing fitness, tactics, discipline and unity ahead of a September start. Women’s Football: Zanaco Ladies have parted ways with head coach Florence Mwila after five years, ending an “outstanding chapter” that included promotion and key Copper Queens coaching work. International Football: Zambia’s Under-17 Women’s team has arrived in Addis Ababa for the second leg of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Ethiopia, chasing a third straight World Cup appearance. Entertainment Spotlight: British-Indian actor Himesh Patel is in the spotlight for Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’, playing Eurylochus—his roots trace back to a family with links to Zambia and East Africa. Media & Society: Nation Media Group’s ownership shift in Uganda has left journalists bracing for change after shutdowns and a move toward digital-only operations. Sports Safety/Politics: A helicopter incident during VP Mutale Nalumango’s campaign tour in Nakonde left her and seven others safe, with investigations expected.

Helicopter Drama: Zambia’s Vice President Mutale Nalumango and seven others escaped unharmed after a military helicopter crash-landed shortly after takeoff during a campaign tour in Nakonde, with authorities saying she was checked and discharged. Football Loss: The Football Association of Zambia mourned former Copper Queens coach Bruce Mwape, who died at 67 after a short illness, credited with guiding Zambia to major milestones including the 2023 Women’s World Cup qualification. Women’s Football Update: Zanaco FC announced the departure of Ladies coach Florence Mwila after five years, praising her role in building the club’s women’s programme and helping it rise in the FAZ Women’s Super League. Sports on the Move: Zambia’s U-17 Women’s team departed for Addis Ababa ahead of the second-leg qualifier against Ethiopia, aiming to “finish the job” and book a World Cup spot. Mining & Business: Makor Resources’ CEO Brooke Bibeault will present at African Mining Week on its US$30m copper strategy in Zambia, while Arc Minerals prepares drilling at its Virgo project in Botswana and says Zambia legal disputes over Kabompo West are settled. Culture & Identity: Doek Drive brought a wave of cultural pride to Matabeleland South, celebrating traditional wrapping cloths and community unity. Film Buzz: British-Indian actor Himesh Patel is in the spotlight for Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’, playing Eurylochus. Tech & Health: An AI-powered ultrasound system is being developed to bring maternity care closer to women in areas lacking clinics and obstetric services.

Football Mourning: The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has announced the death of former Copper Queens coach Bruce Mwape, 67, after a short illness, with tributes highlighting his role in Zambia’s historic 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualification and Olympic appearances. Women’s Football: Zambia’s Under-17 Women’s team, the Copper Princesses, has departed for Addis Ababa for the second leg of the U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier against Ethiopia, chasing qualification after a narrow first-leg advantage. Zambia on the Move: A helicopter crash in Nakonde has left Vice President Mutale Nalumango safe and in good health, with authorities set to investigate the incident. Entertainment & Film Buzz: British-Indian actor Himesh Patel is in the spotlight as he stars in Christopher Nolan’s 2026 epic The Odyssey, playing Eurylochus. Music & Live Events: DJ Cleo says his Zambia and Tanzania gigs were cancelled after anti-immigration protests, claiming he was removed from line-ups. Tech & Media: ZICTA has won an ITU AI for Good award for “VentureWise,” an AI co-pilot supporting micro-entrepreneurs. Global Gambling Watch: UK-linked payment firms are reported to have processed huge sums for an unlicensed gambling network tied to Soft2bet.

Football Legacy: Zambia mourns legendary Copper Queens coach Bruce Mwape, credited with taking the team to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, multiple WAFCONs and a historic Olympic appearance. Media & Culture: Influencer marketing is reshaping Africa’s media landscape, with a Nigeria conference pushing brands and creators to adapt to digital-first storytelling and accountability. Music & Entertainment: DJ Cleo says he was removed from Zambia and Tanzania gig line-ups after the 30 June anti-immigration protests, sparking talk about how the backlash is affecting artists across borders. Tech & Recognition: ZICTA wins an ITU “AI for Good” award for “VentureWise,” an AI co-pilot supporting micro-entrepreneurs, highlighting Zambia’s growing role in AI for impact. Sports Countdown: WAFCON 2026 is set to kick off in Morocco on 26 July with 16 teams, including Zambia, and the tournament also doubles as a pathway to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Global Spotlight: The FBI reportedly probes Argentina’s football federation over a suspected US$300m money laundering scheme tied to US-based commercial operations.