Energy Security & Investment: Maamba Solar has injected 100MW into Zambia’s national grid, with commissioning underway as El Niño threatens hydropower; the US$90m project is a ZCCM-IH/Nava JV, strengthening the grid and the Grow Zambia agenda. Power Market Reform: Zambia says it will resume open access on the Tazama fuel pipeline in January, after earlier emergency arrangements and IMF pressure delayed a return to competition. Fiscal Planning: Cabinet approved the 2027–2029 Medium Term Budget Plan Green Paper, projecting average 6% growth while warning El Niño drought could squeeze fiscal space, prompting stronger buffers and mitigation steps. Debt & Growth Signals: Zambia’s external debt reportedly fell 5% to US$15.36bn in H1 2026, while officials reiterate export-led growth as the path to poverty reduction. Regional Energy Strategy: A renewed push for shared power planning with neighbours highlights how deliverability and cross-border coordination matter for stability. Business & Tech: Sparc Systems was named ICT Company of the Year at TICON Africa 2026, underscoring Zambia’s growing digital services ecosystem. Governance & Risk: President Hichilema warned against social media narratives that could scare investors, insisting there is “no crisis” after the election. Sports Economy: Chipolopolo begin recovery after a 3–1 Algeria loss and host Togo next, with qualification hopes hinging on home results.