Road & Trade: The Kasomeno–Mwenda toll road in Luapula has hit 50% completion under a PPP deal worth about US$260m, with a 182km corridor linking DRC’s Kasomeno to Zambia’s Mwenda, plus a Luapula River bridge and an OSBP—targeted for completion in Q3 2027. Regional Transport: Zimbabwe and South Africa are holding high-level transport talks in Victoria Falls, with a third Beitbridge bridge at the border post among key agenda items to cut delays and boost cross-border trade. Politics & Cost of Living: President Hakainde Hichilema defends his second-term bid in a BBC interview, arguing reforms need time, while opposition leader Brian Mundubile says Zambia’s mining sector must deliver a fairer return and admits opposition faces a funding disadvantage. Diplomacy & Legacy: Zambia marked TAZARA’s 50th anniversary of commercial operations, with officials highlighting the railway’s role in jobs, trade and regional integration. Tourism Business: Meikles’ exit from Victoria Falls Hotel is raising investor questions about strategy and timing as African Sun consolidates ownership. Health: End Malaria Fund warns that increased people movement is driving malaria spread and plans net distribution ahead of the rainy season. Air Connectivity: Emirates and South African Airways expand their codeshare into a reciprocal deal, adding nine destinations including Lusaka and Victoria Falls. Mining & Investment: Patriot Resources completes initial site visit and reconnaissance mapping on a new Mkushi-area licence, aiming to test Fishtie-style copper potential. US Travel Policy: The US makes its visa bond programme permanent, raising the maximum to $20,000 and affecting nationals including Zambia. Governance & Rights: Civil society condemns reports of SMS messages linking Social Cash Transfer support to voting for the ruling party, calling it abuse of incumbency.