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.