News Digest - Wednesday, June 18th, 2025

Today’s news landscape highlights Zambia’s ongoing commitment to national development, regional cooperation, and social cohesion, while also reflecting on significant global and local political and economic transitions. The focus on strengthening alliances within the Global South, exemplified by the China-Africa cooperation outcomes, underscores a collective push for a more balanced, inclusive global economy that challenges traditional power structures. At the same time, Zambia is positioning itself as a key player in innovation and economic growth, with the Minister of Science and Technology, Felix Mutati, emphasizing Africa’s rise as an innovation hub driven by local talent, particularly in mining technology.

The nation is also mourning the recent passing of former President Edgar Lungu, with arrangements underway for his funeral amid a climate of national unity and respect. The government’s stance on maintaining peace beyond the burial aligns with Zambia’s longstanding values of reconciliation and stability, reinforced by reflections on Lungu’s leadership that promoted unity. However, tensions between the government and Lungu’s family over the repatriation of his remains reveal underlying disagreements, illustrating the complexities of national mourning and leadership legacy.

Economically, Zambia shows signs of stability and cautious optimism. The oversubscription of treasury bills reflects lenders’ confidence in the government’s debt management, while the Kwacha’s recent appreciation, driven by foreign inflows from the mining sector and sound policies, signals positive momentum. The African Development Bank’s establishment of a Lusaka office is expected to bolster infrastructure and energy projects, contributing further to economic diversification and development aligned with Zambia’s Vision 2030.

On the political front, debates surrounding the proposed Bill 7 reveal concerns about transparency and public participation, with advocacy groups urging the government to acknowledge its unpopularity and engage more inclusively. Within political parties, the leadership of the Patriotic Front (PF) remains uncertain, as party secretary Raphael Nakacinda clarified that former President Lungu did not endorse any successor, advocating for a merit-based emergence of new leaders.

In social issues, traditional leaders like Chief Chamuka are calling for improved conflict resolution mechanisms within chiefdoms, emphasizing the importance of timely and effective dispute management. Meanwhile, increased corporate social responsibility efforts, such as Trade Kings Foundation’s winter drive distributing thousands of blankets to vulnerable communities, highlight the ongoing commitment to social welfare.

Law enforcement and justice remain focal points, with disturbing revelations about the murder of former IBA director general Guntila Muleya and the skeletal discovery linked to George Kalaba’s family tragedy illustrating challenges in accountability and justice. Additionally, law enforcement’s success in apprehending a Chinese national involved in a counterfeit gold scam demonstrates ongoing efforts to combat financial crimes within expatriate communities.

On the international stage, the US is shifting its engagement with Africa from aid to trade, encouraging governments to streamline bureaucracy and demonstrate transparency to attract investment, which could significantly influence Zambia’s economic prospects.

Finally, Zambia’s sporting spirit is alive with the national youth teams preparing for upcoming competitions, with the Sports Minister urging athletes to uphold high standards and focus on performance over rewards, fostering national pride and regional competitiveness.

Reflecting on today’s news, it is evident that Zambia is navigating a complex interplay of legacy, development, and international cooperation. The nation’s leaders and citizens alike are called to balance tradition with innovation, stability with reform, and national unity with regional and global partnerships. Readers should keep in mind that sustainable progress depends on inclusive dialogue, transparency, and a collective commitment to Zambia’s future.