News Digest - Monday, June 23rd, 2025

Top Stories & Major Developments

1. Tragic Loss at Checkpoint: Female Police Officer Killed
   A female police officer lost her life after being struck by a tipper truck at a checkpoint, sparking concerns over road safety and law enforcement protocols. The incident underscores the ongoing risks faced by police officers in the line of duty and calls for stricter traffic management measures to prevent such tragedies.

2. Economic Resilience? Kwacha’s Unexpected Rally
   The Zambian Kwacha has shown a surprising recovery in recent days. Analysts are debating whether this marks genuine economic strength or if it’s a temporary relief amid volatile market conditions. The currency’s performance remains a focal point for investors and policymakers alike, impacting inflation, import costs, and overall economic stability.

3. Gold Discovery in Mufumbwe: A New Mining Frontier?
   In a promising development, widespread gold deposits have been discovered near the surface in Mufumbwe, raising hopes for a significant boost to Zambia’s mining sector. Experts believe this could provide an accessible resource for local communities and potentially diversify Zambia’s economy, but environmental and regulatory concerns are also being raised about sustainable extraction.

4. Government’s Salary Woes and Project Challenges
   Secretary to the Treasury Felix Nkulukusa has emphasized that low salaries for engineers and public servants are hampering the effective rollout of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). High staff turnover and project delays threaten to undermine development initiatives, prompting calls for a review of compensation strategies to attract skilled personnel.

5. Law Enforcement and Governance: ACC Raids Ndola Mayor
   The Anti-Corruption Commission conducted a raid on Ndola Mayor Jones Kalyati’s residence, seizing property documents and searching school books. Kalyati alleges unprofessional conduct and trauma caused to his family, raising questions about law enforcement practices and the fight against corruption at high levels of government.

6. Bill 7: Rural Support vs. Urban Opposition
   Minister of Justice Princess Kasune reports that support for Bill No. 7 is strong in rural provinces, contrasting with opposition from Lusaka and civil society groups. Critics argue the bill threatens democratic principles, revealing a growing rural-urban divide that could influence Zambia’s political landscape and governance.

7. Athletic Hope: Muzala Samukonga Prepares for World Championships
   Zambia’s top sprinter Muzala Samukonga is in high spirits ahead of the Tokyo World Athletics Championships. The nation’s hopes are pinned on his performance in the 400m, with potential for Zambia to make a mark on the global stage and boost national pride through sports.

8. Unsafe Mining: MUZ Raises Alarm Over Illegal Miners at Senseli
   The Mineral Union Zambia (MUZ) has raised safety concerns regarding illegal mining activities at Senseli, emphasizing the risks faced by unauthorized miners and the need for stricter regulation to protect lives and the environment.

9. Women’s Football: WAFCON Glory in Focus
   The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) President Keith Mweemba has urged the Copper Queens to aim for victory at the upcoming Morocco 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Success could elevate women’s football in Zambia and foster national pride through continental achievement.

10. Lungu Burial Controversy: Calls for Compromise
    Activist Reuben Lifuka advocates for a mutual agreement between the government and the family of former President Edgar Lungu to ensure a dignified burial in Zambia. The debate underscores the importance of national unity and respecting the legacy of former leaders amid a sensitive political climate.

11. Celebrating Drivers: Yango Zambia’s International Drivers Day Tribute
    Yango Zambia honored 100 top-performing drivers on International Drivers Day, recognizing their critical role in mobility and service delivery. Such initiatives highlight the ride-hailing industry’s recognition of driver contributions and the push for better working conditions.

12. Burial in Zambia vs. South Africa: Religious and Cultural Perspectives
    The Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia (EFZ) has appealed to Lungu’s family to reconsider plans to bury him in South Africa, citing biblical principles emphasizing burial in one's homeland. The debate reflects deeper cultural, spiritual, and patriotic sentiments surrounding national identity and respect for tradition.

13. Legacy and Legacy Disputes: South African Diplomat’s Reflection
    Former South African diplomat George Twala praised Lungu’s leadership, especially his infrastructure development and regional diplomacy. However, ongoing political tensions, including disputes over Lungu’s burial, reveal complexities in his legacy amid Zambia’s evolving political landscape.

Additional Highlights

• Economic & Political Reflections: The Kwacha’s performance and the ongoing debate over Bill 7 reveal a nation grappling with economic stability and democratic integrity. Meanwhile, political tensions surrounding Lungu’s legacy and burial underscore deep divisions that continue to shape Zambia’s political discourse.

• Social & Cultural Notes: The calls for unity in Lungu’s funeral arrangements and the recognition of drivers and athletes reflect Zambia’s diverse social fabric, emphasizing respect, patriotism, and national pride.

Reflection and Key Takeaways

Today’s news paints a picture of a nation at a crossroads—facing economic uncertainties, political debates, and social challenges while also celebrating cultural achievements and community resilience. The tragic loss of a police officer reminds us of the ongoing safety risks, while discoveries like gold in Mufumbwe offer hope for economic diversification. The debates over legislation, leadership legacy, and national identity highlight the importance of unity, transparency, and patriotism. Moving forward, Zambia’s strength lies in balancing development, governance, and cultural cohesion as it navigates these complex issues.

Stay informed, stay engaged.