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.