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Zambia Top Stories

for the 13 Oct - 19 Oct

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1. PF Calls to Pause Constitution Review

Brian Mundubile, Patriotic Front 2026 presidential aspirant, asked President Hakainde Hichilema to pause Zambia’s constitutional amendment process and stop the 25-member technical committee until after the 2026 elections. He said the country lacks time for a credible and inclusive review. Mundubile questioned the committee’s composition, claiming most members support the ruling UPND. He warned that rushing the process could leave stakeholder concerns, including those on Bill No. 7, unaddressed.

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2. Zambia Reaches Debt Deals With China

Zambia signed bilateral agreements with Chinese creditors, including the Export–Import Bank of China, to restructure part of its $4 billion debt. Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane said the deals mark a key step in managing obligations after Zambia became the first African country to default on Eurobonds during the COVID-19 pandemic. Analysts note that the agreements aim to ease debt service pressure, stabilize Zambia’s finances, and support economic recovery, though China maintains confidentiality on loan terms.

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3. PF Raises Voter Registration Concerns

Members of the Patriotic Front in Parliament met with the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to address challenges in the ongoing voter registration exercise. MPs raised concerns about delays in the deployment plan, lack of national registration card officers, malfunctioning equipment, short registration timelines, and inadequate voter education. ECZ officials acknowledged the issues, pledged corrective action, and clarified that electronic voting will not be used in the 2026 elections but is planned for the 2031 elections.

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4. Zambia Backs AfDB Financial Reform Plan

Zambia reaffirmed its support for African Development Bank President Dr. Sidi Ould Tah’s plan to create a new African financial framework aimed at strengthening the continent’s economic sovereignty. During talks in Lusaka, President Hakainde Hichilema pledged $5 million to the African Development Fund and explored collaboration on energy, transport, and trade. They also reviewed Zambia’s Mission 300 plan to achieve universal electricity access by 2030 and boost regional integration and sustainable growth.

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5. Zambia Celebrates Peace, Unity

Zambia maintains its reputation as a beacon of peace, unity, and coexistence, Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa said during Lusaka International School’s 61st Pre-Independence celebration. He highlighted Zambians’ commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and cultural diversity, which have preserved stability. Kangwa urged citizens to uphold peace and solidarity amid challenges. School leaders encouraged pupils to embrace diversity, self-belief, and the nation’s founding values ahead of the 61st Independence Anniversary.

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6. Government Drives AI for Growth

Minister Elias Mubanga said Zambia’s government promotes ethical and inclusive AI to support micro, small, and medium enterprises. Speaking at the 8th Zambia E-Commerce Expo in Lusaka, he highlighted policies giving businesses access to digital tools and skills to scale operations, boost trade, and create high-value jobs. ERITE Chair Caleb Fundanga praised local revenue funding for the 2026 budget and stressed the need for robust infrastructure to support Africa’s digital economy.

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