AGP Executive Report

Election Fallout & Courts: Opposition Tonse Pamozi Alliance spokesperson Emmanuel Mwamba alleges President Hakainde Hichilema used the military, “closed the courts” and influenced the electoral commission to secure re-election, with the claims aired widely internationally but not independently verified. CAF Football: Power Dynamos host Al Merrikh in a high-stakes CAF Champions League return leg in Ndola after a 1-0 first-leg deficit, with both sides stepping up training ahead of the weekend. Road to Bulawayo: Zimbabwean adventurer Nkosilathi Mathe arrives in South Africa after a 24,000km drive from the UK, with about 3,000km left and SOS Children’s Villages fundraising in the final stretch. Vehicle Safety Recall: Isuzu South Africa recalls about 2,500 RG19 D-Max bakkies across multiple countries including Zambia due to a possible loose brake pedal pivot pin; inspections and repairs are free. Local Politics & Development: New Lupososhi MP Shadreck Katuta pledges to tackle poor roads, youth empowerment and upgrades to schools, health and water services under the Grow Zambia agenda. Digital Identity Push: Altron Security marks a major Zambia milestone by completing the national public key infrastructure for secure digital identity and e-signatures. Arts & Heritage: A curator-led Nguni exhibition at Yale University spotlights Nguni art through cultural and geographic lenses, bringing regional history and creativity to a global gallery audience.

Zambia Film Festival: The 13th Zambia Short Film Festival wrapped in Lusaka with local titles taking major wins, including “Ntambi’s Choice” (Best Film, Best Director) and Abigail Nyirenda (Best Actress), while “Paradox” grabbed Best DOP, Best Editor and Best Actor. Miss World Spotlight: Adah Mushibi made history at Miss World 2026 by reaching the Top 12 and winning the Multimedia Challenge, sparking a “Buy Her a Benz” fundraising drive. Ballon d’Or Buzz: Football fans are counting down as the 2026 Ballon d’Or nominees were released, with the ceremony set for Oct. 26 in London and stars like Lionel Messi, Harry Kane and Lamine Yamal among the men’s shortlist. Media & Business Pressure: Zambia Daily Mail Limited managers were urged to strengthen risk management, while a separate opinion piece argues it’s “too expensive to run a business” in Zambia—especially for broadcasters. Health Awareness: Ndola Teaching Hospital joined a community campaign offering free screenings for hypertension, diabetes, HIV and prostate cancer. Education Concern: International PISA results point to a long-term drop in reading and maths performance, with Zambia listed among countries below the wider average.

Education & Youth: Zambia’s ECZ says OECD will release the 2025 PISA results on Sept 8, with the global study pointing to a sharp drop in reading and maths skills—raising fresh pressure on literacy-focused learning. Public Health & Inclusion: Kasama Municipal Council reports ZAPD provincial offices are over 99% complete, set to boost services and outreach for persons with disabilities in Northern Province. Sports (Zambia & Africa): Champions League 2026/27 Matchday 1 viewing guide is out, while CAF Champions League first-leg results include Power Dynamos (Zambia) losing 1-0 to Al Merriekh. Church & Politics (Zambia): PAOGZ defends Presiding Bishop Joshua H.K. Banda over claims tied to UN-related opposition leaders’ handling, insisting the church was assigned by church mother bodies. Road Safety (Lusaka): Police confirm one pedestrian died and another was seriously injured in two separate Lusaka accidents, including a hit-and-run. Security & Governance: Zambia Army warns against dragging the military into partisan politics, urging restraint and accuracy in public talk. Mental Health: Kafue District Commissioner says government is strengthening mental health services at primary healthcare level.

Aviation & Safety: Zambia Air Force (ZAF) has shut down social media claims of a recent “undisclosed crash,” saying the incident referenced actually happened on October 16, 2010 at Mukinge Airstrip and involved a Harbin Y-12 Two utility aircraft. Health & Community Care: In Kasama, a UK flying medical specialist linked rising motorcycle trauma to more hip-bone malformations, while a hip-surgery camp delivered free orthopaedic care with donated implants. Education Spotlight: ECZ says OECD will release Zambia’s 2025 PISA results on September 8 in Paris, marking the country’s first full global benchmark. Disability Infrastructure: Kasama’s ZAPD provincial offices are over 99% complete, funded via 2024 CDF, aiming to boost services and outreach for persons with disabilities. Sports (Zambia in focus): Zambia’s U-20 COSAFA qualifier run starts in Mozambique (Sept 18–27), while Patson Daka was dropped to the bench as Hamburg suffered a 5-0 loss. Entertainment/Arts: Eswatini’s International Theatre Festival (Oct 1–3) will feature 15+ productions and workshops with regional artists, including Zambia.

CAF Champions League: Al Hilal and Mangasport made strong starts in the first preliminary round, with Al Hilal winning 2-0 away and Mangasport taking a 3-1 home advantage as ties set up tense return legs. COSAFA U-20: Zambia are chasing a 13th Under-20 COSAFA crown in Mozambique (Sept 18-27), drawn with Malawi, Comoros and Botswana, with the top teams heading to the semis and finalists qualifying for the continental finals. Football (Zambia abroad): Chipolopolo striker Patson Daka was dropped to the bench as Hamburg suffered a 5-0 defeat to Mainz, with Zambia’s next AFCON qualifiers coming soon against Algeria and Togo. Miss World 2026 (Zambia in the spotlight): Dr Adah Mushibi advanced into the Top 40 after challenge wins, keeping Zambia in the running as the pageant heads toward the finale in Vietnam. Sports development: Government urged more youth participation in karate, praising the Japanese Ambassador’s Karate Cup for growing talent and discipline across Zambia. Road safety: A Rufunsa bus crash killed one and injured three, with police urging safer overtaking and speed control.

ZNBC Media: Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation has officially retired veteran TV personalities Innocent Kalaluka and Franklin Tembo Jnr, effective 31 August, thanking them for over 30 years of service and mentorship. Miss World 2026: Zambia’s Dr Adah Mushibi keeps flying the flag after making the Top 40/Top 12 mix, while Philippines’ Asia Rose Simpson advanced early and is being tipped among frontrunners as the pageant crowns its winner in Nha Trang. Politics & Rights: Former Constitutional Court judge Anne Mwewa Sitali remains in detention as the Human Rights Commission flags prolonged custody of election-related detainees and calls for charges or release. Courts & Elections: Post-election disputes are now heavily in court, with 67 parliamentary petitions filed after the deadline passed, keeping Zambia’s democracy debate in the spotlight. Entertainment & Culture: A reflective piece on the cancellation of Ukusefya Pa Ng’wena 2026 sparks debate on tradition and unity, while Ngoni cultural celebrations in the region highlight heritage through music, dance and community ties. Road Safety: Tragic crashes on the Great East Road and other routes left deaths and serious injuries, with police urging safer driving.

Miss World 2026: Zambia’s Dr Adah Mushibi is through to the Top 12 after winning challenges, while Philippines’ Asia Rose Simpson also advanced as the pageant heats up in Nha Trang. ZNBC Media: Zambia’s national broadcaster has officially retired veteran TV personalities Innocent Kalaluka and Franklin Tembo Jnr, effective August 31. Courts & Politics: Post-election tension continues as 67 parliamentary election petitions are filed across Zambia, with the wider dispute still shaping public debate. Citizenship Drama: Lusaka lawyer Celestine Mukandila says his Zambian citizenship was by descent through his mother, after authorities cancelled his National Registration Card and passport while he remains in custody. Sports: Bravehearts Ladies Basketball Club retained the International Basketball Challenge title, beating Zambia’s Green Buffaloes 93-55. Police & Safety: Zambia Police report a fatal shooting in Matero after an alleged machete attack on officers. Global Entertainment: Miss World crowned Dominican Republic’s Joheirry Mola, with Spain’s Elisabeth Reynés Alabern first runner-up.

Miss World 2026: Zambia’s Dr Adah Mushibi is through to the Top 20 after winning challenges, while the Philippines’ Asia Rose Simpson also advanced as pageant observers name frontrunners ahead of the finals in Nha Trang. ZNBC Media: ZNBC says veteran broadcasters Innocent Kalaluka and Franklin Tembo Jnr have retired effective 31 August, insisting it’s voluntary early retirement and fully compliant with labour rules. Entertainment & Culture: Africa TV’s The Bond Season 6 continues with Episode 2 on kiwifruit production, spotlighting innovation and farming links between China and Africa. Sports Development: Volleyball leaders met across Africa to push long-term growth, with Zambia among federations involved in the continent’s development push. Media Business: World Bank officials toured Zimpapers’ modern newsroom in Harare, praising the integrated TV, radio, print and online setup.

Miss World 2026 Buzz: Philippine bet Asia Rose Simpson is named a top frontrunner by Missosology, ranking 4th in the “Final Hot Picks” list ahead of the finals in Nha Trang, Vietnam. Zambia Citizenship Row: Celestine Mukandila publicly sets out his position on Zambian citizenship and the cancellation of his National Registration Card and passport, arguing he acquired citizenship by descent through his Zambian mother. Media & Court Drama: Hot FM chairman Oscar Chavula sues photographer Chellah Tukuta for defamation, seeking K20 million damages over a Facebook post alleging terrorism links. Zimpapers Upgrade: A World Bank director tours Zimpapers’ modern digital newsroom in Harare, praising the integrated media operation across TV, radio, print and online. Music Spotlight: Zamrock legends W.I.T.C.H. return to their roots on Sogolo, with coverage highlighting the band’s classic sound and legacy. Sports: Malkia Strikers lose the CAVB Women’s African Nations Volleyball Championship final to Egypt 3-0, taking silver. Global Map Talk: UN backs an African-led “Correct the Map” resolution with 164 votes in favour, including support from Zambia.

Hot FM Court Battle: Hot FM chairman Oscar Chavula has sued photographer Cornelius “Chellah Tukuta” Mulenga for defamation over a Facebook post alleging he promoted terrorism, seeking up to K20 million in damages. Volleyball Spotlight: Kenya’s Malkia Strikers were beaten 3-0 by Egypt in the CAVB Women’s African Nations Volleyball Championship final, ending their title defence and Olympic qualification hopes. Zambia Politics & Rights: Zambia’s Acting AG Marshal Muchende says treason suspects Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu are not political prisoners, while the Human Rights Commission urges police and prosecutors to charge, grant bond, or release at least 84 election detainees. Media Leadership Rumours: Reports claim Anthony Bwalya has been appointed Minister of Information and Media, reigniting debate over accountability. Zamrock Culture: W.I.T.C.H. returns to its roots on Sogolo, with the band’s legacy of Zamrock rock still drawing attention. Sports Moment: Chipolopolo captain Fashion Sakala opened his season scoring for Al-Fayha as they drew 2-2 with Al-Kholood.

UN Human Rights Pressure: Zambia’s Human Rights Commission has urged police and prosecutors to charge, grant bond, or release at least 84 election detainees held since the August 13 polls, warning prolonged custody without court appearance violates constitutional and international rights. UN vs Zambia Diplomacy: Government also hit back at UN Special Rapporteur Gina Romero, saying an UN envoy engaged constructively on the ground while the Rapporteur issued distant criticism—prompting fresh sovereignty and rule-of-law debate. Sovereignty Push: UPND legal chair Hon. Jack Mwiimbu “schooled” Romero on Zambia’s sovereignty, non-interference, and objectivity, while other statements accused the UN of one-sided, unverified assessments. Payments & Identity Tech: Paycode appointed Colin Digby as Chief Revenue Officer to expand revenue strategy for its offline-capable payments and digital identity solutions, including in Zambia. Consumer Safety: Woolworths and Zambia’s National Consumer Commission recalled WBeauty Complete Clarifying Shampoo after bacteria contamination concerns. Football Spotlight: Chipolopolo captain Fashion Sakala scored for Al-Fayha in a 2-2 Saudi Pro League draw. Sports Youth Update: COSAFA moved the Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations/COSAFA qualifier host to Mozambique, with Zambia drawn in Group C. Arts & Culture: Zambia’s entertainment scene also intersects with global media as Gloria Steinem’s legacy gets renewed attention through streaming film and TV picks.

Zambia Entertainment & Culture: Zambian hip-hop quartet Zone Fam is back after a 12-year break, teasing a new single “One Fight” dropping September 4 with a video, ending a long wait for fans. Music & Events: Afro-pop star Yo Maps headlines a weekend show at Zambezi Riverside Resort (Stone City) near Katima Mulilo, despite a council access denial that forced organisers to adjust plans. Sports: Zambia’s CAF U-20/COSAFA qualifier host duties shifted—Mozambique will stage the tournament after logistical issues, with Zambia drawn in Group C. Media & Talent: MTN’s Pan-African media innovation programme welcomed its first cohort, including Zambian journalists, aiming to strengthen newsrooms for the digital era. Health & Research: ZAMRA and NHRA signed an MoU to speed up clinical trial approvals and monitoring, including joint inspections and shared safety oversight. Tech & Business: Uber’s $16.9bn deal to acquire Delivery Hero could reshape delivery platforms across Africa, including Glovo operations in multiple countries.

Music Spotlight: Yo Maps is set to headline Rock Zambezi at Zambezi Riverside Resort in Stone City, near Katima Mulilo, this weekend—riding high on his hit “It’s Over” (over 8M YouTube views) and “Hello” (over 7M). Show Must Go On: Organisers say the concert will proceed even after Katima Mulilo Town Council denied access to the Waterfront due to the ongoing Zambezi Bream and Cultural Festival. Media & Growth: MTN Media Innovation Programme kicks off with Cohort 1, welcoming 42 journalists and editors from 10 African countries, including Zambia, to strengthen journalism for a digital era. Football (Zambia-linked): FC Rouge of Madagascar arrives in Zambia ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup tie against Red Arrows at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Saturday. Culture & Community: The World Peoples Assembly opens a Zambia representative office at the Lusaka National Museum, aiming to expand arts, culture, research and public diplomacy. Fashion Moment: First Lady Mutinta Hichilema turns heads in a red-and-white outfit at President Hichilema’s inauguration.

Regional Energy & Infrastructure: Mozambique and Zimbabwe broke ground on the CPMZ Beira–Harare fuel corridor expansion, boosting pipeline capacity by 67% to move an extra ~2 billion litres of fuel annually into Southern Africa, with supplies to markets including Zambia, Malawi, Botswana and DRC. Football (CAF): Malagasy side FC Rouge arrived in Zambia ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup preliminary clash versus Red Arrows at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, with coach Fenososa Maldini targeting a positive first-leg result. Arts & Culture: The World Peoples Assembly opened a Zambian representative office at the Lusaka National Museum, aiming to grow arts and culture links, research partnerships, and stage its “Leader of Public Diplomacy” contest in 2027. Faith & Environment: The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops launched the 2026 Season of Creation (Sept 1–Oct 4) under “Living Water,” urging practical action to protect water sources and wetlands. Lifestyle & Travel: A new feature spotlights Zambia’s Miombo herbal medicine retreat (Dec 1–7, 2026) at Nsobe Game Camp, blending traditional plant knowledge with safari experiences. Fashion Moment: First Lady Mutinta Hichilema turned heads at President Hakainde Hichilema’s inauguration with a coordinated red-and-white ensemble.

Swearing-In Spotlight: Hakainde Hichilema was sworn in for a second term at Heroes National Stadium, pledging to be a “servant President” and to push jobs, unity, and faster delivery across communities. Unity Message: Kenyan President William Ruto told Zambians elections settle who governs—not who belongs—urging rivals to disagree without breaking the nation. Sports & Entertainment: Power Dynamos head coach Osward Mutapa says his side will chase a first-leg advantage against Al Merrikh in the CAF Champions League preliminary round in Rwanda. Music & Culture: Chile One cleared up social media confusion about his “father” after opening up on fatherless upbringing and his mother’s sacrifices. Gaming Trend: A Lusaka/Ndola-focused piece says gaming entertainment is booming, driven by affordable smartphones and quick, addictive rounds. Mining Business: ZCCM-IH is considering selling a stake in its assets, while also eyeing big gains from formalising Zambia’s small-scale gold sector.

Zambia Inauguration Buzz: Hakainde Hichilema was sworn in for a second term at Heroes Stadium, pledging to be a “servant President” and to keep politics from turning into permanent divisions, while police also warned the public against inciting violence online. Election Fallout: The swearing-in comes as opposition leader Brian Mundubile remains at Mukobeko on treason charges, with observers and media reports pointing to serious irregularities around the August 13 vote. Unity Message: Global and political analyst Dr Abigale Mupambi urged Zambians to move beyond election-season divisions and focus on reconciliation as Zambia enters a new chapter. Regional Diplomacy: SADC congratulated Hichilema on his election victory, and Angola’s João Lourenço sent a message to the re-elected president. Arts & Entertainment: Chile One opened up about his fatherless upbringing and cleared social media confusion, while Zambia also hosted major creative-industry momentum through Africa Creative Market 2026. Sports & Culture: Zambia’s Shaolin temple spotlighted a softer face of China, and chess fans got a boost from the Malawi Open where Zambians featured prominently.