The Patriotic Front filed a complaint with SADC accusing Zambia’s government of suppressing opposition activity ahead of the 2026 elections. PF spokesperson Emmanuel Mwamba alleges denial of permits, arbitrary arrests, police raids, and misuse of state institutions to weaken the party. He says these actions violate SADC democratic principles and threaten credible elections. The PF is urging SADC to intervene and monitor conditions to ensure a fair electoral process.

The government condemned a violent attack on the Patriotic Front secretariat after a group believed to be UPND supporters stormed the premises, injuring bystanders and damaging property. Officials said the ruling party had no role in the incident and urged police to identify and prosecute the perpetrators. Witnesses described the assault as coordinated, raising concerns about resurging cadre violence ahead of 2026 elections. Analysts warned that failure to act could erode public confidence and political stability.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s two-day visit to Zambia highlighted expanded economic cooperation in sectors like energy, agriculture, and mining. President Hichilema praised Israel’s technology and agricultural expertise, framing the visit as a boost to investment and development. However, critics condemned Zambia’s warm reception, arguing that hosting Herzog amid Israel’s isolation over the Gaza conflict was morally troubling. The contrasting reactions underscore a split between diplomatic engagement and public concern over Israel’s global conduct.

China’s Premier Li Qiang will visit Zambia on 19–20 November, the first trip by a Chinese head of government in 28 years. The visit aims to deepen trade, investment and infrastructure cooperation, strengthen political trust, and advance commitments from President Hichilema’s 2023 China visit and the FOCAC summit. Both sides will review major projects, including TAZARA, and explore new areas of partnership as part of their comprehensive strategic cooperation.

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema met Donald Trump Jr. during the latter’s private visit, discussing tourism and growing US investment interest in Zambia. Trump Jr. praised the country’s natural beauty and business potential, while Hichilema reaffirmed his commitment to stronger US–Zambia ties. The meeting came amid heightened diplomatic activity, including Hichilema’s visit to Tanzania to reinforce regional cooperation and modernize shared infrastructure.

Chief Kabamba of Serenje has urged the government to make Corporate Social Responsibility mandatory for investors, saying manganese processors in his area have not improved local living standards. He also called for community sensitization on mining-related environmental risks and raised concerns about damaged infrastructure. The chief warned that recent plant closures have increased crime and asked the government to ensure reliable power for processors. A parliamentary committee pledged to review his concerns.

Zambia has praised progress on the Golden Baobab Multi-Facility Economic Zone. It’s being hailed as a model for rural industrialization and a major driver of future investment. The zone is expected to attract $300 million, create 2,000 jobs, and introduce advanced manufacturing such as electric tipper truck assembly for the mining sector. Planned industries include EVs, machinery, steel, food processing and energy production. Officials say the project will boost exports, skills, and value addition.

Ericsson has opened a new office in Lusaka, pledging support for Zambia’s move toward 5G and future 6G technologies. The company says the investment deepens Zambia–Sweden ties and boosts secure, modern connectivity. Science and Technology Minister Felix Mutati said partnerships like Ericsson’s are key to Zambia’s digital transformation, while Ericsson executives and Sweden’s ambassador framed the move as a long-term commitment to the country’s digital future.

Zambia has created an independent Minerals Regulation Commission, the country’s biggest mining governance overhaul in decades. The new regulator separates oversight from policymaking, centralizes mining compliance functions, and introduces specialized departments to support exploration, artisanal miners, and large-scale investors. The reforms aim to boost transparency, attract investment, and help Zambia meet ambitious copper-production targets. Regional offices and strengthened geological data systems are expected to cut delays and improve efficiency.