AGP Executive Report

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.

Presidential Inauguration Buzz: Zambia is gearing up for President Hakainde Hichilema and VP W.K. Mutale-Nalumango to be sworn in today at National Heroes Stadium, with a public holiday, visiting dignitaries, and performances from traditional dance groups, church choirs and musicians. Police & Social Media Crackdown: Ahead of the ceremony, Zambia Police warned the public against incitement, hate speech and threats online, saying offenders will face the law, while also issuing traffic and security advisories for the Heroes Stadium area. Human Rights Spotlight: Human rights defender Laura Miti is facing backlash online after saying Hichilema is “the best available choice,” with critics calling the elections rigged. Music/Media Impact: Award-winning CEO Dave Van Niekerk joins the RX Radio board, backing the child-led hospital radio station that trains young presenters living with chronic conditions. Culture & Entertainment: Zambia’s Shaolin Temple outside Lusaka is drawing attention as Africa’s first, blending martial arts training with a China-Zambia cultural footprint. Sports: Zambia’s bodybuilding team returned from Zimbabwe’s Alex Classics with three medals, and pool action continues in Arusha at the Cue Masters tournament.

Inauguration Security: Zambia Police have rolled out security and traffic measures ahead of President-elect Hakainde Hichilema’s Sept 1 swearing-in at National Heroes Stadium, urging motorists to expect road closures and diversions. Courtroom Drama: The UPND has petitioned for two parliamentary seat reruns in Chinsali (Central) and Shiwangandu after alleged election irregularities, while opposition figures linked to the wider election fallout remain in custody and Mukobeko Maximum Security Prison stays in the spotlight. Music & Entertainment: Mongu-based musician Chester More Power, Felix Ndangeni Inshila and comedian IDC Light Comedy were granted bail after riotous behaviour and offensive weapons charges. Tech & Media: MTN’s Pan African Media Innovation Programme is set to shape a new chapter for African journalism, with Zambia-linked media talent among those spotlighted. Culture & Tourism: Zambia’s Shaolin Temple outside Lusaka is drawing attention as a living cultural bridge, with training and performances bringing China-Zambia ties to life. Sports: Zambia’s Nkana won the 2026 ZGU National Quadrangular, while volleyball action saw Ghana beat Zambia to reach the quarterfinals.

Drone Light Show: Lusaka’s night sky lit up with a synchronised drone display at the Showgrounds, celebrating Zambia–China people-to-people exchanges and featuring landmarks like TAZARA, plus Zambia’s heritage and tourism visuals. Public Holiday: Zambia declared Tuesday, September 1, 2026 a public holiday for the swearing-in of President-elect Hakainde Hichilema and Vice President-elect at National Heroes Stadium, with invitees urged to carpool due to limited parking. Sports (Volleyball): Ghana booked the Africa Volleyball Nations Cup quarterfinals after beating Zambia 3-1 in Nairobi, setting up a Tuesday, September 1 clash with Rwanda. Sports (Bodybuilding): Zambia’s bodybuilding team returned from Zimbabwe’s Alex Classics with three medals—Patrick Kalenga (silver), William Sichone (bronze), and Rose Mwape (bronze in Ladies Wellness)—as attention turns to Zed Nationals Mr Zambia 2026 on November 28. Football (Coaching): Zambian coach Donewell Yobe joined Nyirenda’s Bullets backroom staff in Malawi as Fitness and Strikers Trainer. Entertainment/Media (Radio): RX Radio’s Dave Van Niekerk was appointed to the RX Radio board, aiming to drive expansion across African markets including Zambia. Tech/Travel Caution: A Zimbabwe visa mix-up shows how over-trusting AI travel planning can go wrong at borders.

Inauguration Day Public Holiday: Zambia has declared Tuesday, 1st September 2026 a public holiday for the swearing-in of President-elect Hakainde Hichilema and Vice President-elect, with the ceremony set for National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka and invitees urged to carpool due to limited parking. Lusaka Drone Spectacle: Lusaka’s night sky lit up with a synchronised drone light show celebrating Zambia–China people-to-people exchanges, featuring Zambia’s heritage, Chinese culture, and landmarks like TAZARA, framed as tech-driven culture and tourism storytelling. Treason Case Update: Opposition leader Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu have been formally charged with treason, as police reject claims of blocked lawyer access and insist detainees are meeting counsel at Lusaka Central Police Station. Sports & Entertainment Tech: DAZN secured LaLiga broadcast rights across Sub-Saharan Africa for 2026/27–2028/29, bringing all matches to fans in the region, while Zambian football news also highlights Fashion Sakala’s standout performance for Al Fayha. Education Watch: GTEC cautioned the public against enrolling in 100 unrecognised universities as of August 2026, urging due diligence before relying on certificates.

Treason Case Update: Zambia Police say opposition presidential candidate Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu have full access to their lawyers, rejecting claims that Lusaka Central Police Station was sealed off or that legal visits were blocked. Court Deadline Pressure: Legal debate is heating up around Zambia’s presidential election petition process after courts closed during the petition window, with Prof. Cephas Lumina warning the Constitutional Court must uphold the right to challenge the election. Formal Charges: Police have formally charged Mundubile, Zulu and 16 others with treason, with trial expected to begin as international groups continue to raise concerns over post-election arrests and court closures. Parliament Rules Explained: A fresh explainer breaks down who qualifies for parliamentary nomination in Zambia, including age, citizenship, voter registration, education and clean-record requirements. Mandevu Election Row: ECZ will hold a fresh parliamentary election in Mandevu after a security incident disrupted results declaration, while ZCLU questions ECZ’s legal basis. Sports & Entertainment: Lusaka Motor Show 2026 officially opens with cars, music and entertainment; and DAZN secures LaLiga broadcast rights across Sub-Saharan Africa, bringing every match to fans from this weekend.

Sports & Entertainment: Kenya beat Nigeria 3-0 to reach the CAVB Women’s Africa Nations Championship quarter-finals, while Zambia’s Fashion Sakala earned Player of the Match in Al Fayha’s 3-2 win over Abha. Football Streaming: DAZN secured LaLiga EA SPORTS rights across Sub-Saharan Africa for 2026/27–2028/29, bringing all 380 matches per season to fans via live and on-demand coverage. Local Arts & Culture: The 16th Lusaka Motor Show 2026 officially opened in Lusaka with cars, mobility, live music and entertainment running 28–30 August. Zambia Politics (headline): Police formally charged Brian Mundubile, Makebi Zulu and 16 others with treason, as the legal battle around election fallout continues. Digital & Regional Growth: The Digital Cooperation Organization approved eight countries—including Zambia—for membership, with Tajikistan joining as an associate member. Sports (Women’s Football): Silver Ladies broke down after halftime to lose 0-4 to Gaborone United Ladies in the CAF Women’s Champions League-COSAFA qualifier.

Sports Streaming: DAZN has secured rights to broadcast LaLiga EA SPORTS across Sub-Saharan Africa from 2026/27 through 2028/29, bringing all 380 matches per season live and on-demand in 48 markets, with English and Spanish commentary. Zambia Elections: ECZ says it will hold a fresh parliamentary election in Mandevu after an attack at the totalling centre destroyed result transmission kits and prevented results from being declared. Entertainment TV: ZNBC’s iconic late-night talk show “Smooth Talk” signs off forever tonight after 24 years and 1,248 episodes, with host Innocent Kalaluka (Smooth IK) airing the final episode. Football (Women’s): Silver Strikers Ladies face Gaborone United for bronze in the CAF Women’s Champions League-COSAFA qualifier after semifinal exits, while Zambia’s ZESCO Ndola Girls and others set the stage for the final COSAFA spots. Public Safety: Police warn of planned unlawful protests ahead of President Hichilema’s Sept 1 inauguration, saying they’ll act firmly against anyone who breaks the law.