AGP Executive Report

Election Logistics: Zambia’s presidential ballot printing in Dubai is in day 4, with about 6 million of 9 million presidential papers already produced; next phase will cover Braille jackets and other ballot categories. Digital Governance & Revenue: Lusaka City Council’s e-Council rollout shows a sharp jump in collections after services moved onto the Government Service Bus/ZamPortal, rising from about K61,000 in January to nearly K14 million in June. Social Protection: Government released K1.4 billion for Social Cash Transfers for 1.5 million households, with digitisation now reaching 92% of beneficiaries via electronic platforms. Campaign & Infrastructure Promises: Opposition figure Brian Mundubile drew large crowds in Northern Province, renewing infrastructure pledges including an international airport in Nakonde—prompting scrutiny over overlap with existing government plans. Energy, Trade & Connectivity: Powertel and Paratus Zimbabwe launched the first phase of a fibre optic corridor linking Zimbabwe toward Botswana and Zambia, aiming to boost cross-border digital connectivity. Mining Outlook: Copper prices edged higher internationally, supporting Zambia’s mining prospects as the country targets higher production and export earnings. Education & Connectivity: UNICEF, Airtel and the Ministry of Education are pushing to connect the remaining 200 schools to a digital learning platform by end-2026. Cost of Living Pressure: Inflation and rising food/transport costs are driving tougher household budgets ahead of August 13 polls.

Roads & Transport: Government says only two detours remain on the first 100km of the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls Road upgrade after opening another 9.2km rehabilitated stretch, bringing the traffic-opened portion to 68km under ERRP2. Energy & Cost of Living: Zambia extended fuel excise duty suspension for 90 days and kept VAT zero-rating on petrol and diesel to Sept 30 to cushion consumers from Middle East-driven oil price pressures. Digital Government: Eight local authorities (Lusaka, Ndola, Kitwe, Solwezi, Chingola, Kalulushi, Kalumbila and Chilanga) have been onboarded to the e-Council platform via ZamPortal for online applications and electronic payments for permits, rates and fees. Public Finance: Government released K450 million to clear UNZA and CBU retirees’ pension and gratuity arrears. Business & Markets: Citi says investor appetite is returning to Zambia after default, with renewed focus on mining, energy and agriculture. Elections & Administration: ECZ reports 3.7 million presidential ballot papers printed so far (about 41% of 9.1m target) as campaigns intensify. Fuel Supply Glitch: Livingstone faced fuel shortages with some stations running dry, causing long queues and disrupted transport. Macroeconomy Debate: A German think tank rates Zambia’s economy below average, while economist Lubinda Haabazoka links a stronger kwacha to improved fundamentals and reserves. Education & Skills: MBRGI and The Digital School plan to expand digital learning to 500,000+ people across six African countries including Zambia.

Election Logistics & Integrity: The ECZ says it has printed 3.7 million presidential ballot papers in Dubai so far, with 9.1 million as the ceiling, and dismisses claims of extra ballots, saying the burden of proof lies with accusers. Digital Learning Push: MBRGI/MBRGI-backed Digital School initiative will support over 500,000 learners across six African countries including Zambia, focusing on school connectivity, teacher capacity and job-readiness. Zambia-Japan Investment: A Zambia–Japan investment agreement signed in 2025 will enter into force on 30 July 2026, offering investor protections and court access. Inflation Update: Zambia’s headline inflation fell to 6.5% in June 2026, the lowest since 2018, as economic recovery narratives gain momentum. Agriculture & Inputs: FAO highlights how soil suitability can vary even within short distances, urging smarter crop decisions amid fertiliser cost pressures. Tobacco Earnings: Tobacco sales reached US$104.9m by Week 11 of the 2025 marketing season, with flue-cured Virginia driving most value. Energy Policy Debate: A new analysis argues electricity tariffs across Africa should reflect efficient power supply, not losses, debt and weak governance. Trade & SMEs: Zambia International Trade Fair in Ndola targets 1,000 exhibitors from 23 countries, with government also rolling out empowerment programmes for small-scale farmers and marketeers.

Inflation & social delivery: Zambia’s headline inflation fell to 6.5% in June, the lowest since February 2018, as government points to expanded social programmes and higher farmer support, including a higher Food Reserve Agency maize purchase price and scaled-up social cash transfers. Investment & trade: Zambia–Japan’s investment promotion and protection agreement will enter into force on 30 July 2026, locking in national treatment and access to courts for investors. Energy projects: Zimbabwe’s Kariba floating solar push is reported on track for a $400m (about R6.5bn) investment, with 500MW targeted for the grid—an important regional signal for power security. Mining & capital markets: Shuka Minerals says it has completed a fifth deep drill hole at Kabwe Zinc Mine and started a sixth, aiming to expand understanding of orebody potential. Public finance & universities: Government released K450m to clear UNZA and CBU pension and gratuity arrears, targeting long-standing arrears and staff welfare. Politics with economic stakes: President Hichilema urged North-Western voters to reject independent candidates, arguing they will split the UPND vote; he also outlined plans for a University Teaching Hospital in Solwezi. Carbon markets & forests: Zambia is deepening community participation in carbon markets via legally recognised Community Forest Management Groups, with hundreds of groups managing millions of hectares.

University Finance: Government releases K450 million to clear UNZA and CBU pension and gratuity arrears, easing pressure on staff and students. Campaign Trail: President Hakainde Hichilema wraps North-Western engagements in Mwinilunga and Solwezi, urging unity ahead of 13 August. Smart Agriculture: FAO opens its first Global Conference on Smart Farming, pushing tech and better horticultural practices for small-scale farmers. Energy & Power: Chisamba Solar Plant hits 187.69GWh in its first year, with plans for more solar projects via partnerships. Mining & Investment Signals: Citi says investors are returning to Zambia for mining, energy and agriculture as stability improves. Election Logistics: ECZ says Dubai’s Al Ghurair will print 9 million presidential ballots in 4–5 days. Conservation & Tourism: Zambia plans to reintroduce cheetahs to Luangwa Valley after nearly three decades. Agribusiness Revenue: Tobacco sales reach US$104.9m by Week 11 of the 2025 marketing season, with Virginia leading earnings. Digital Payments/Fintech: AEON Pay expands into Zambia, integrating Airtel Money and MTN Mobile Money for kwacha settlement. Public Health in Mines: UNODC reports alcohol is the most used drug among mine workers, with cannabis next.

Fuel Watch: Zambia’s Energy Regulation Board cut July pump prices, with petrol down K1.00/litre and diesel down K4.00/litre, easing costs as oil prices softened and the kwacha firmed. Energy Security: ZEMA approved a USD 1.1bn crude oil refinery by ZPEC in Ndola, targeting 3 million tonnes of refined products a year to reduce import dependence. Macroeconomy: The IMF said Zambia has restored stability with reserves at about $6.4bn and inflation easing to 6.8%, but warned election-period fiscal pressures are rising. Elections Logistics: The ECZ began printing August 13 ballot papers in Dubai, proceeding on schedule despite some stakeholders not attending. Payments & Inclusion: Absa Bank Zambia launched digital payment tools like virtual cards and mobile/wearable payments to support a faster, safer digital economy. Agribusiness: GTAZ expects to buy about 600,000 MT of maize this season, but warns export prospects are hit by regional price volatility. Tourism Push: Zambia targets 5 million international tourists by 2030, citing marketing, visa liberalisation and better air connectivity. Regional Trade: Central banks agreed interoperable payment systems are key to boosting cross-border trade and AfCFTA implementation.

Fuel & Transport Costs: The Energy Regulation Board cut July pump prices, with petrol down K1.00 (K27.15→K26.15) and diesel down K4.00 (K32.11→K28.11), citing lower international oil prices and a firmer kwacha. Macroeconomic Watch: The IMF says Zambia’s reserves and inflation gains are real, but fiscal pressures intensified in 2026 due to weaker tax collection, election spending and agricultural subsidy overruns, warning the country must protect progress during the election period. Election Logistics & Transparency: ECZ begins printing August 13 ballot papers in Dubai with Al Ghurair, estimating US$5m for printing alone, while critics question the cost and oversight model. Reserves Debate: Economists and commentators continue to push back on “reserves” rhetoric, stressing reserves are for stability and currency confidence, not campaign talking points. Mining Governance: Zambia scores 81/100 in its EITI validation, reinforcing extractives transparency reforms. Education & Food Security: Government confirms a dedicated budget line of over K500m per year for school feeding, with partners supporting delivery. Regional Trade: ZimTrade is facilitating Zimbabwean firms’ participation in Zambia’s ZACS 2026 to tap buyers across SADC and COMESA. Business & Investment Signals: First Quantum announces its Q2 2026 results date (July 28) for investors tracking Zambia’s mining-linked performance.

School Feeding Funding: Government commits over K500m per year to the school feeding programme and says it is working with partners like Food4Education to scale meals to 5.6 million learners by end-2026. Election Logistics: The ECZ says it will spend about US$5m on printing ballot papers, with production underway in Dubai at Al Ghurair ahead of 13 August polls. Foreign Exchange Reserves Debate: President Hakainde Hichilema defends US$6.5bn reserves as an emergency buffer, while economists and opposition figures trade barbs over whether reserves translate into household relief. Mining Governance & Transparency: Zambia scores 81/100 in its EITI extractive transparency validation, reinforcing reforms in stakeholder engagement and disclosure. Creative Economy Push: Government opens the 2026 African Creative Industries Business Summit and Kwimbo festival, and says it is working on monetising social media for creators. Regional Heritage & Tourism: Zambia and Zimbabwe launch a workshop to turn Victoria Falls heritage into community entrepreneurship and jobs. Food Security Watch: FAO warns Africa’s fish supply is lagging behind rising demand, raising nutrition and security concerns. Local Leadership Settlement: Gciriku Traditional Authority crowns a new Hompa after a seven-year court dispute, aiming to restore unity and revive cultural practices.

School Feeding Boost: Zambia signed a four-year partnership with Kenya’s Food4Education to scale the national school feeding programme from 4.6 million learners in 8,193 schools to 5.6 million by end-2026, with technical support across policy, operations, data, budgeting and infrastructure. Road Safety for Learners: Yango Zambia and the Zambia Road Safety Trust expanded the “Safer Journeys to School” initiative in Lusaka from a 2025 pilot to 15 additional schools in 2026, reaching 24,000+ children with zebra crossings, speed humps and school zone signage. Election Logistics: The Electoral Commission of Zambia began printing ballot papers in Dubai for the 13 August 2026 General Election, starting with presidential ballots, with stakeholders touring Al Ghurair Printing to verify quality. Copper Outlook: President Hakainde Hichilema said Zambia is on track for about one million tonnes of copper this year, targeting over US$14bn in revenue and pushing wider growth goals. Forex Reserves Debate: Tonse Pamodzi leaders Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu responded to Hichilema’s “boys” remarks and renewed the argument that reserves should not come at the expense of household hardships. Mining & Jobs: Murray & Roberts completed the R1.27bn sale of its core mining services businesses, securing about 2,600 jobs as part of its business rescue plan. Agribusiness Results: Zambeef reported a 108% jump in first-half profit in kwacha terms, citing improved margins, easing inflation and more reliable electricity.

Corporate Earnings: Zambeef Products says first-half profit jumped 108.3% in kwacha terms, with revenue up 2.3% to ZMW3.93bn, as operating margins improved and inflation eased, plus more reliable electricity supply. Foreign Exchange Reserves Debate: President Hakainde Hichilema told a packed Heroes Stadium crowd the US$6.5bn reserves must stay intact for national emergencies, pushing back on claims they should be used to ease the cost of living; economists and opposition figures continue to trade arguments over “reserves vs IMF loans” and whether buffers should be spent. Campaign Trail & Economy Messaging: Hichilema launched the UPND re-election campaign with promises on jobs, free education and lower costs, while the event also sparked chatter over entertainment-heavy rallies and viral dance moments. Food Security & Agriculture: Muchinga targets 65,000 metric tons of white maize for strategic food reserves, urging farmers to keep some for household use amid possible El Niño impacts and to adopt climate-smart farming. Innovation & Entrepreneurship: Government reports over K53m invested in science, research and technology, supporting research projects and start-ups through the National Research Fund and Technology Business Development Fund. Regional Finance: Moody’s flags Absa’s planned R4bn increase in its Kenya stake as credit positive, while noting higher East Africa risks. Public Health: Government launched the Zambia Cancer Survivors Network to connect survivors and improve access to screening and care.

Copper Outlook: President Hakainde Hichilema says Zambia’s copper output is expected to hit about one million tonnes this year, projecting over US$14 billion in revenue, crediting mine reforms and economic recovery. Election Campaign: Hichilema has launched his UPND re-election campaign at Heroes Stadium, telling the opposition to “go back to school” and stressing achievements like free education, debt restructuring and lower inflation, while promising more jobs and lower cost of living. Reserves Debate: The rally reignited a major economic argument around foreign exchange reserves, with commentators and politicians trading views on whether reserves should be treated as “government money” versus emergency savings. Agriculture Push: Government reiterated plans to transform agriculture, including targets for maize production and support programmes such as FISP, SAFF and FSP, urging farmers to treat farming as a business. Health & Insurance: Authorities launched the Zambia Cancer Survivors Network, alongside an MoU between ZSIC General Insurance and Teal Sisters Foundation to support screening and awareness. Business Tech: Radiant diGiLog rolled out an AI workforce productivity platform across multiple markets, aiming to replace manual tracking for SMEs. Regional Finance: Afreximbank appointed Peter Adeshola Olowononi as Director of Regional Operations for Southern Africa, covering Zambia and 12 other countries.

Foreign Reserves Debate: Former PeP leader Sean Tembo says Zambia’s reported US$6.5bn gross reserves are not proof of good economic management, arguing reserves are low-yield “savings” that can’t be treated like money for spending while debt and unpaid obligations persist. Policy Clarity: Prof. Lubinda Haabazoka explains reserves are the central bank’s emergency buffer, not government spending money, separating national budgets from national savings. Inflation Reality Check: Economist commentary questions whether the official 6.5% inflation figure matches lived costs, pointing to high bank lending rates. Campaign Economics: UPND officials accuse the Tonse Alliance of lacking a clear message and “confusing” reserves with an expense account, while opposition figures argue citizens should see welfare gains alongside macro indicators. Afreximbank Leadership: Afreximbank appoints Peter Adeshola Olowononi as Southern Africa regional operations chief, boosting trade and financing focus across 13 countries including Zambia. Copperbelt Digital Push: Coverage highlights Konkola Copper Mines’ “Konkola Playbook” and CopperTech Metals’ technology-driven revival plan, with a potential 2026 IPO funding the shift. Agriculture Support: Government reiterates plans to transform farming, with maize targets and programmes like FISP, SAFF and fertiliser support. Capital Markets: Nigeria’s CIS inaugurates its first female president, Fiona Ahimie, and proposes a N5bn endowment fund to back young capital market professionals.

Foreign Exchange Reserves Debate: Former PeP leader Sean Tembo says Zambia’s reported US$6.5bn gross reserves don’t automatically mean good economic management, pointing to rising debt and unpaid obligations to the private sector; the Tonse Alliance’s George Chisanga also rejects claims that opposition wants to “eat reserves,” arguing the real test is whether citizens feel benefits. Inflation Reality Check: Economist Yusuf Dodia pushes back on ZAMSTATS’ inflation easing to 6.5%, arguing bank lending rates imply much higher inflation pressures on households. Campaign Fairness & Politics: Tonse candidate Brian Mundubile alleges restrictions on air travel while President Hakainde Hichilema campaigns with unrestricted flights, while the UPND prepares a major rally outside Heroes Stadium on Sunday. Agriculture & Food Security: Government reiterates plans to transform agriculture, with targets including 77,000 metric tonnes of maize for Kalumbila and continued support through FISP, SAFF and FSP. Afreximbank Appointments: Afreximbank names Peter Adeshola Olowononi as Southern Africa Regional Operations Director, covering 13 countries including Zambia. Digital Payments & Trade: Afreximbank highlights rising intra-African trade and local-currency settlement momentum, including PAPSS adoption to cut reliance on the US dollar and euro. Public Service Professionalism: Cabinet Office urges government secretaries to uphold professionalism and integrity in service delivery.

Internships & Youth Skills: Coca-Cola Beverages Africa has opened applications for a 2026 three-month internship programme for diploma and degree students, offering hands-on work across departments and mentorship. Foreign Exchange Debate: Vice-President Mutale Nalumango and opposition figures are trading blows over foreign currency reserves, with Nalumango urging voters to back the UPND’s economic recovery plan while critics argue reserves are not translating into lower prices and better welfare. Trade & Macroeconomy: Zambia posted a K7 billion trade surplus in May (up from K3.5 billion in April), with ZamStats also citing inflation easing to 6.5% and Q1 growth at 7.7%. Road Safety & Infrastructure: The Road Development Agency dispatched engineers to assess damage to Kankumba Bridge after a fatal crash involving two Volvo trucks; the road was temporarily closed then reopened. Capital Markets: ZAFFICO held a Bell Ringing Ceremony to mark its rights issue milestone at the Lusaka Securities Exchange. Digital Advertising Push: Out There Media and Pulse Africa announced a strategic partnership to strengthen Africa’s digital advertising ecosystem, starting with Nigeria and Ghana. Mining & Business: Arc Minerals reported a wider full-year loss for 2025, citing non-cash losses tied to control of the Handa group and higher admin expenses. Football Finance: FAZ set a target of about US$30 million over two years to support football development through a new commercial and marketing advisory committee.

Trade & Macroeconomy: Zambia recorded a K7bn trade surplus in May, up from K3.5bn in April, with the first five months of 2026 bringing a surplus of about US$1.1bn; inflation eased to 6.5% and GDP grew 7.7% in Q1. Economic Politics: Vice President Mutale Nalumango urged Zambians to renew the UPND mandate, saying reforms are stabilising the economy and the next five years will focus on growth and jobs, while dismissing claims of any plan to extend the presidential term. Central Bank Reserves Debate: Opposition and economists continue trading blows over foreign exchange reserves and inflation, with editorials warning against “campaign economics” that treats reserves as meaningless. Infrastructure & Transport: The Road Development Agency dispatched engineers to assess damage to Kankumba Bridge after a fatal crash, but police later reported the road reopened; separately, a weighbridge on the Chingola–Kasumbalesa road is completed to improve enforcement and reduce congestion. Energy & Climate: A new report says Africa added over 4.2GW of hydropower in 2025, while another warns El Niño could worsen drought risks across southern Africa, including Zambia. Sports & Business: FAZ targets about US$30m over two years to commercialise football development, and Champion Breweries appointed Malolan Sampath as CEO effective 1 September 2026. Governance & Safety: Government is reviewing the outdoor advertising policy to improve road safety and strengthen local authority monitoring and revenue collection.

AAUA Leadership: Lucky Aiyedatiwa appoints Prof Tomola Marshal Obamuyi as Vice-Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, after a competitive selection process. Court & Safety: Lusaka Magistrates’ Court sentences Chinese businessman Zhao Bin to 10 months for assaulting a female police officer on duty. Inflation & Growth: Zambia’s inflation eases to 6.5% in June (lowest since early 2018) as food and non-food prices soften, while GDP growth accelerates to 7.7% in Q1 2026. Central Bank Payments Reform: Bank of Zambia phases out cheques, setting June 26 as the last day for interbank clearing, pushing customers toward digital payments. Pensions Dividend: NAPSA receives a K3.2m dividend from BAT Zambia, reinforcing returns for the pension fund. Mining Investment Pulse: ZDA points to billions in mining investment as Zambia targets 3m tonnes of copper by 2030, highlighting First Quantum’s Kansanshi S3 expansion. Infrastructure & Energy: Mansa Airport upgrade (over K740m) advances with runway works nearing completion; meanwhile, Wonderful Group reports 80% procurement progress on a 600MW thermal power plant substation in Sinazongwe. Regional Trade & Finance: Visa and FMBcapital sign a five-year digital payments deal across Southern Africa, while Afreximbank reports intra-African trade rising 5.5% to $213.8bn in 2025, with Zambia among beneficiaries.