AGP Executive Report

AI & Power Struggle: New reporting warns AI is cutting the cost of authoritarian control across Africa, making it easier for states to crush reform before it even starts. Election Tensions in Zambia: ECZ moves to suspend UPND ward nominations after duplicate adoption-certificate chaos, while EU and UK officials push for fair policing, impartial courts, and violence-free voting ahead of August. Political Fallout: Nevers Mumba reportedly fell sick right after Hichilema named Mutale Nalumango as running mate, and Amutike Mongu is said to have relocated to South Africa after a setback over re-contesting. Regional Spotlight: Uganda’s locally built electric buses are scaling up, and South Africa’s xenophobia response is again under fire as migrant attacks resurface. Entertainment & Sports: Bongeziwe Mabandla kicks off a world tour in Johannesburg, and Zambia’s Copper Princesses aim to keep their Under-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier momentum against DR Congo.

SADC Diplomacy: South Africa’s Ronald Lamola opened the SADC Foreign Affairs retreat at Kruger National Park, setting a tone of shared history and regional cooperation. Conservation Boost: Zimbabwe secured a €2m KfW-backed shot for KAZA ranger housing in the Kavango Zambezi TFCA, aiming to lift frontline morale. Health Politics: A new US approach to global health is being slammed for “ransom-like” tactics—freezing vaccine funding and pushing bilateral deals over multilateral support. Zambia Election Tension: ECZ suspended UPND ward nominations after adoption-certificate chaos, with Lusaka mayoral filings thrown into confusion as TI-Z warns papers may be withheld. Sports Spotlight: Zambia’s Copper Princesses target a strong start in the U17 Women’s World Cup qualifiers vs DR Congo in Ndola. Business & Tech: IMF urges Africa to reset growth models for better jobs, while West Africa’s digifon pushes locally designed lifestyle tech. Entertainment & Culture: Bongeziwe Mabandla kicks off his tour with a new album in the works.

Electoral Chaos in Lusaka: ECZ has suspended UPND ward nominations in Kalumbila and temporarily halted Lusaka mayoral filings after duplicate adoption certificates sparked a tense standoff, with Lusaka mayoral aspirant Chitambala Mwewa later pulling out to avoid violence. Public Safety Push: ZCSA’s chief has urged shoppers to buy only from trusted outlets and check labels, expiry dates and manufacturing details. Cross-Border Inspiration: Uganda-to-Cape Town skateboarder Jason Vanporppal is nearing the finish line on day 103, already covering 6,400km across seven countries to raise funds for a skatepark in Uganda. Regional Tensions: South Africa’s xenophobia response is under fresh scrutiny as anti-foreigner protests resurface across the continent. Music Spotlight: Hil St. Soul drops “Nasalifya (Thank You),” a spiritual tribute album shaped by personal loss. Tech & Transport: Uganda’s electric buses are expanding on city routes, while Zambia’s ZDA and ZPEC move ahead with a major Ndola refinery protection deal.

Electoral Violence Crackdown: Twenty suspected political cadres were arrested in Mazabuka after an attack on former MP Gary Nkombo during nomination filing, as President Hakainde Hichilema condemned the scenes and warned Zambia is governed by law, not intimidation. UPND Adoption Chaos: The Lusaka mayoral race is in turmoil after two aspirants reportedly produced adoption certificates for the same position, triggering fears of violence and even a pull-out by Chitambala Mwewa “for peace,” while ECZ suspended UPND ward nominations in Kalumbila over duplicate certificates. Church Calls for Calm: ECZ voter-education trainers were urged by government to keep faith leaders as steady voices of peace, unity and reconciliation during the electoral period. Sports & Entertainment: Bongeziwe Mabandla kicked off a world tour stop in South Africa ahead of his June album, while Zambia’s Chewe Mukuka—now a UNZA media and journalism graduate after going blind in first year—prepares for her graduation. Health Watch: A doctor warned that the “SALT SANA” phrase could be misread and push people toward excess salt as hypertension cases rise.

Ebola Travel Crackdown: An Air France flight from Paris to Detroit was diverted to Montreal after US authorities blocked a Congolese passenger under tightened Ebola entry rules, with Washington now funnelling arrivals from DR Congo, South Sudan and Uganda through Washington Dulles. Energy Deal Watch: Zambia’s ZDA and ZPEC signed a protection agreement for a $500M Ndola oil refinery, with construction already underway and completion targeted for end-2028. Election Tension in Mazabuka: Violence erupted as former minister Gary Nkombo filed nominations as an independent, prompting fresh calls for police action and President Hichilema’s warning that intimidation won’t be tolerated. Sports & Culture: Queens International Pool Tournament returns in Bulawayo (May 23–26), while Chipolopolo coach Lwandamina says Zambia can compete in the AFCON 2027 qualifiers group. Music Spotlight: Hil St. Soul drops “Nasalifya (Thank You)” and The Coral quietly tease new album “388.”

Electoral Tension: President Hichilema warned that anyone trying to block nominations through intimidation or mob action will face firm action, after viral reports of violence during nomination filings in Mazabuka. Mazabuka Violence: Former minister Gary Nkombo’s camp condemned the assault on him and called for arrests, while other voices pushed for restraint as the ECZ keeps the process moving. ECZ Moves: The commission extended the nomination period and opened a special voter’s card replacement window for candidates who lost cards. AFCON Focus: Chipolopolo interim coach George Lwandamina says Zambia can still reach the 2027 AFCON finals after being drawn with Algeria, Togo and Burundi—preparation is the key. Transport Update: TAZARA will suspend the Mukuba cross-border passenger train for one week for maintenance, resuming June 2. Global Lens: Fuel-price shocks and rising living costs continue to hit African economies, with copper demand in China still seen as supportive despite recent price swings.

AFCON Buzz: Chipolopolo coach George Lwandamina says Zambia can still surprise in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers after the draw put them in Group I with Algeria, Togo and Burundi—his message is simple: “preparation” will decide everything. Election Tension: President Hakainde Hichilema warns that attempts to block the nomination process are unacceptable, and says police will act against anyone behind electoral violence or mob action. Opposition Moves: ECZ cleared Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu to contest, while ECZ also opened a special voter’s card replacement exercise and extended nomination timelines. Courtroom Spotlight: Music duo’s Edward Chanda (Chanda Na Kay) pleaded not guilty to child trafficking and grooming charges, with trial set to start June 1. Sports Night: ANZA MMA’s June 6 pro-fight night in Nairobi is set, headlined by Ali Abad vs Peter Bushak, with Zambia’s Chilufya also on the card. Health Watch: Zambia activated Ebola screening at entry points bordering the DRC and set up response centres across provinces. Media Rules: Bloggers and independent creators are barred from Archbishop Mpundu’s funeral coverage unless accredited.

Inspiring Sports Story: Emmanuel Rugamba is back with “Next Play,” using his refugee-to-pro-football journey to push youth to build purpose beyond the pitch. AFCON 2027 Buzz: The qualifying draw is out—Zambia are in Pot Two and could face big names like Senegal, Morocco, Nigeria, Algeria or South Africa, while Ghana and Ivory Coast land in the same group. Football Focus: Zambia’s runners headlined the COSAFA/continental athletics fallout in Accra—some finals, but no medals—plus Zambia’s Brenda Kunda wins a COSAFA women’s seat. Election Drama: Citizens First’s Harry Kalaba files presidential nomination papers, while ECZ keeps tightening the process—rejecting UPPZ leader Charles Chanda over bankruptcy/adoption issues and clearing claims that Mundubile and Makebi Zulu are being shut out. Mining & Business: ZCCM-IH forms a gold JV in Kikonge (51% stake) to formalise artisanal mining and boost local processing. Court Case: Musician Chanda Na Kay’s Edward Chanda pleads not guilty to child trafficking charges, with trial set to start 1 June.

Election Turmoil: Zambia’s ECZ has rejected UPPZ presidential hopeful Charles Chanda after ruling he’s an undischarged bankrupt and that his adoption documents didn’t meet legal requirements—adding fresh heat to an already tense August 13 race. PF Fallout: The Patriotic Front’s internal crisis deepened as Robert Chabinga insisted only his faction can issue PF adoption certificates, while PF was also reported as “effectively dead” for 2026 after Miles Sampa said the party won’t contest. Opposition Clarity: ECZ also moved to calm rumours by confirming Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu remain in the presidential nomination process. Sports Spotlight: Zambia’s AfCON 2027 qualifying path is set after the draw placed Chipolopolo in Pot Two, with preparations already underway. Mining & Growth: ZCCM-IH formed a gold JV in North Western’s Kikonge area to formalise artisanal mining and build local processing capacity.

Zambia Election Buzz: The ECZ has moved to kill rumours that opposition presidential hopefuls Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu were being blocked, saying both have completed pre-nomination steps and are already on the nomination schedule. Presidential Race Logistics: Presidential nominations are now officially underway at Mulungushi, with accreditation for media, observers and stakeholders in full swing. Health Watch: Zambia’s Ministry of Health says a localised Viral Haemorrhagic Fever alert was detected in Luanshya, with the patient stable and preliminary Ebola/Marburg tests negative while confirmatory results are pending. Sports Leadership: Zifa boss Nqobile Magwizi has been elected to Cosafa’s executive committee, with Brenda Kunda of Zambia winning the women’s seat. Football News: FAZ confirms Nora Häuptle will lead the Copper Queens at WAFCON after outstanding issues were resolved. Public Service Fallout: Dr. Alex Katakwe issues an apology and clarification over remarks on public service conduct, withdrawing language that could be seen as endorsing improper inducements. Regional Politics: Former Lusaka Deputy Mayor Ketty Nanyangwe withdraws from the 2026 mayoral race.

Media Freedom Under Pressure: Zambia’s democratic progress is being tested as campaign season ramps up, with journalists’ groups warning that even after improvements since 2021, structural, legal and financial pressures still threaten independent reporting—plus opposition leaders say state media gives the ruling party an edge. Election Readiness: The ECZ says it’s ready for presidential nominations starting today (May 18), with accreditation underway at Mulungushi, while President Hichilema insists the August 13 polls will be calm and peaceful and urges issue-based campaigning. Health Watch: Zambia also flagged a localised VHF alert on the Copperbelt—patient stable, Ebola and Marburg rapid tests negative, final results pending. Football & Sports: FAZ has confirmed Nora Häuptle will lead the Copper Queens at WAFCON and Zambia will host a Four Nations Tournament in June. Public Safety: Choma’s suspected illicit alcohol deaths have risen to 16 as authorities intensify crackdowns.

Peace Pledge Before Polls: President Hakainde Hichilema says Zambia’s 13 August elections will be calm and peaceful, with security on high alert and services continuing even after Cabinet and Parliament dissolve. Election-Season Tension: Opposition leaders are trading warnings and unity claims, while ECZ-related disputes keep bubbling—Makebi Zulu insists candidates can’t be disqualified through “administrative” rules not in law. Public Gatherings Bill Shake-up: Government proposes raising the minimum for regulated political gatherings from 3 to 7 people, aiming to protect ordinary social events from police notification. Football Spotlight: FAZ confirms Copper Queens coach Nora Häuptle will lead Zambia at the June Four Nations tournament, with WAFCON preparation still the priority. Sports & Culture: COSAFA elects Namibia’s Shimooshili to the exco, and Zambia’s Brenda Kunda retains her women’s seat; meanwhile, Milo Deito gains major endorsements after pausing his tour following a Choma tragedy.

Abortion Aid Clash: Canadian aid groups are urging PM Mark Carney to rally allies after the U.S. “global gag rule” blocks funding for organisations that provide abortion-related counselling, science-based sexual health info, or LGBTQ+ advocacy—warning the rollback could mean more deaths. Zambia Politics: Parliament has dissolved for the August 13 election, and the countdown is loud—while opposition unity talk heats up with Makebi Zulu pushing “one will stand for all,” and ECZ processes keep tripping candidates, including Brian Mundubile’s party switch forcing fresh supporter preprocessing. Media & Rights: Zambia’s Law Association is pushing President Hichilema to reject the Public Gatherings Bill, saying it risks reintroducing a permit-style regime. Music & Culture: Milo Deito gets major PR backing from Macky 2 and King Illest, but cancels tour dates after a Choma tragedy tied to illegally brewed alcohol. Business/Industry: Zambia Sugar’s $76m Twazabuka project is set for commissioning in August 2027.

Congenital Care Breakthrough: Zimbabwe is giving thousands of children a second chance through a public-private push with CURE Children’s Hospital—over 5,000 kids treated in five years, helping them walk, speak and return to school. Culture in Motion: Zambia’s region-wide spotlight is also on identity and dignity, with Zimbabwe’s First Lady taking the flagship Doek Drive to Manicaland, handing out doeks and support to elderly and pregnant women. Sports Buzz: South Africa’s Gift Leotlela grabs his first Diamond League 100m title in Shanghai in a photo-finish. Zambia Election Politics: Parliament has dissolved ahead of August 13, while the Law Association of Zambia urges President Hichilema to reject the Public Gatherings Bill, warning it could reintroduce a permit-style regime. Transport Alert: A coal shunt train derailed near Ndola; two people feared trapped as investigations begin.

Parliament Dissolves for August Election: Zambia’s 13th National Assembly officially shut down on May 15, triggering the 90-day countdown to the Aug 13 polls, with President Hakainde Hichilema thanking ministers after a final cabinet sitting. Public Gatherings Bill Clash: The Law Association of Zambia is urging the President to withhold assent to the Public Gatherings Bill, warning it could bring back a permit-style system and restrict peaceful assembly ahead of campaigns. UPND Adoption Turbulence: Former Education Minister Douglas Siakalima has opted out of the Chirundu race, while reports say former ministers are being rejected by their own structures in the adoption process. Election Rules Update: ECZ says more polling stations don’t mean new voting centres—just more voting rooms—while nomination dates were adjusted for MPs and local government candidates. Sports/Entertainment: Lusaka’s One Love Reggae Festival saw 36 arrests in a drug crackdown, and a Zambian theatre space-race show is caught in a naming wrangle with a London production. Culture Spotlight: Garifuna Arts and Culture Appreciation Month is getting renewed attention.

Election Countdown: Zambia’s National Assembly has officially dissolved ahead of the August 13, 2026 general election, with the ECZ now moving the nomination calendar and clarifying that more polling stations don’t mean new voting centres—just more voting rooms inside existing centres. Opposition Shake-Up: Former opposition leader Brian Mundubile’s switch to a new party means he must redo ECZ supporter preprocessing, while opposition alliances keep reshuffling right before nominations. Rights & Politics: The Law Association of Zambia is urging President Hichilema to reject the Public Gatherings Bill, warning it could curb peaceful assembly and election-era freedoms. Sports & Culture: Zambian football and entertainment keep buzzing—from a viral “Chambishi Copper Mine” worker song to Zambia’s sports community rallying around major events and local tributes. Tech & Health: CIDRZ launched a low-cost breathing monitoring study for preterm babies at UTH, using a chest-worn sensor linked to a smartphone.