Energy & Power Contracts: Tanesco has sealed a Sh198.67 billion deal with TBEA to build a 220kV transmission line and receiving substation to end chronic power shortages in Songwe and Mbeya, with an 18-month timeline aimed at boosting mining, industry, agriculture and trade. Digital Identity & Sovereignty: Zambia’s national PKI launch lands amid a wider global debate on digital credentials, as countries push different wallet formats and “trust” models that raise new questions about data control and security. Governance, Courts & Rights: Opposition leader Brian Mundubile, Makebi Zulu and 16 others have sued the State over detention and alleged rights violations, including restricted access to lawyers and family. Law & Order: Mafinga South MP Faith Munthali has been arrested and charged with being armed in public and conspiracy to commit a felony, with trial set for Sept 17. Anti-Fraud & Immigration: Zambia has cancelled passports of associates linked to the Hopewell Chin’ono fraud gang, while a suspected mobile money scammer in Chongwe narrowly escaped mob justice after an alleged K6,000 attempt. Food Security: Government warns about 1.2 million people at risk of severe food shortages from Oct to March 2027 as El Niño odds rise. Regional Trade: Kenya signed an agreement to import 540,000 tonnes of maize from Zambia in six batches to cushion a seven-year production low. Renewables Finance: Africa GreenCo secured an additional US$11.5m to expand its renewable energy platform across SAPP markets, bringing total raised funds to about US$21.5m.