News Digest - Thursday, June 26th, 2025

Today’s news highlights Zambia’s dynamic political landscape, ongoing efforts in social development, cultural exchanges, and economic initiatives. The country is navigating important reforms, regional collaborations, and national security concerns, while also celebrating cultural achievements and addressing social issues like gender-based violence and child protection.

Main Stories

1. Zambia Strengthens Defense Ties with Turkey’s Raff Military Textile
   The Turkish defence textile giant, Raff Military Textile, is expanding its footprint in Zambia through a strategic partnership aimed at boosting local defence manufacturing and industrial capacity. This move signifies Zambia’s growing importance in Africa’s defence sector and Turkey’s broader regional ambitions. The partnership emphasizes sustainability, local production, and long-term cooperation, marking a shift towards more strategic international alliances that could benefit Zambia’s security and industrialization efforts.

2. Zambia’s Progressive Refugee Policy Sets Global Example
   Marking World Refugee Day, Zambia reaffirmed its commitment to supporting over 111,000 refugees through inclusive policies that promote self-reliance and integration. Despite challenges with encampment policies, Zambia’s approach aligns with the 1951 Refugee Convention and demonstrates a model of compassion and partnership. This stance underscores Zambia’s role as a regional leader in refugee support amid economic and global uncertainties.

3. Cultural Bridge: French Play "Figaro" Comes to Zambia
   In a notable cultural exchange, theatre-actress Mariah Mukuka’s adaptation of "Figaro's Barber of Seville" integrates Zambian humor and music, bridging French literature with local culture. Supported by Alliance Française, this production highlights Zambia’s vibrant arts scene and its ability to foster cross-cultural understanding while showcasing local talent and contemporary realities.

4. Constitutional Reforms Under Debate Amid Political Tensions
   Zambia’s government defends the proposed Bill 7, aiming to amend the constitution to increase parliamentary seats from 156 to 211, aligning with electoral delimitation reports. While the Attorney General describes the process as transparent, opposition groups criticize it as politically motivated and narrow in scope. President Hakainde Hichilema’s decision to defer the bill for further consultation reflects a cautious, participatory approach amidst a polarized political environment.

5. Justice Sends Strong Message on Child Protection
   A Lusaka High Court sentenced Portifer Mwalanda to 60 years for the defilement of two young children, exemplifying Zambia’s zero-tolerance policy on child abuse. This harsh penalty aims to serve as a deterrent and reinforce the judiciary’s commitment to protecting vulnerable populations, addressing growing concerns over gender-based violence and child safety.

6. Political Transitions and Leadership Changes
   The RTSA board saw the departure of Chair Allen Mate, with the minister emphasizing authority in leadership decisions. Meanwhile, Perry Mutapa’s expected appointment as head coach of Green Eagles signals a new chapter in Zambian football, aiming to revitalize the national team’s performance amid ongoing squad restructuring.

7. Electoral Reforms and Democratic Engagement
   Zambia’s Parliament introduced Bill 7 to increase constituency seats, aiming to align with the Electoral Commission’s delimitation report. The move is pivotal for future electoral representation, with debates focusing on its potential impact on the political landscape and democratic processes.

8. Addressing Gender-Based Violence: Kasune’s Advocacy for Stricter Laws
   Justice Minister Princess Kasune advocates for making defilement and rape non-bailable offences, emphasizing the need for tougher laws amid rising cases. Her stance challenges misconceptions linking attire to victimization and seeks to reinforce Zambia’s commitment to gender justice.

9. Women’s Football Gains Momentum with WAFCON Broadcast Rights
   SuperSport secured exclusive broadcast rights for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, boosting visibility for Zambia’s Copper Queens. With the tournament starting July 5 in Morocco, confidence is high among players like Natasha Nanyangwe, who believe Zambia can overcome being perceived as underdogs.

10. Political Tensions Post-Lungu: Government and PF Face Off
    The UPND government plans to confront the Patriotic Front after Edgar Lungu’s burial, which has been delayed due to legal and diplomatic issues. The South African government urges amicable resolution, highlighting diplomatic sensitivities surrounding the former president’s final arrangements.

11. Leadership Changes in Zambian Football and Political Power Struggles
    Perry Mutapa’s potential appointment as Eagles coach signals a strategic shift, while internal PF dynamics, including Lubinda’s aspirations, reveal ongoing political power struggles. These developments could reshape Zambia’s football and political environments in the coming months.

12. Government’s Response to Lungu’s Burial Dispute
    The Attorney General advocates for out-of-court settlement to resolve the court-injunction blocking Lungu’s burial in South Africa, reflecting diplomatic efforts to honor the late leader while respecting legal processes. The situation underscores the importance of diplomatic protocol and national interests.

13. Activist Pilato Explains Transition to Government Role
    Fumba Chama, aka Pilato, clarifies his shift from activism to government service, emphasizing a focus on delivering solutions rather than just highlighting problems. This reflects broader themes of pragmatism and the challenges of balancing advocacy with governance.

14. Lungu’s Family and Government Dispute Over Burial
    The court-ordered suspension of Lungu’s burial in South Africa has created diplomatic and familial tensions, exemplifying the complexities involved in handling the remains of former heads of state amid international protocols and political interests.

Brief Updates

• The UPND defers Bill 7 to allow broader consultation, emphasizing democratic inclusivity.
• The South African Cabinet calls for a peaceful resolution of Lungu’s burial arrangements.
• Minister Fumba Chama defends his new role, citing responsibilities rather than ideological change.
• The Green Eagles’ new coach, Perry Mutapa, is expected to bring stability and strategic focus to the national team.
• The Lusaka High Court’s sentencing of Mwalanda reflects Zambia’s tough stance on child abuse.
• Zambia's refugee policies continue to serve as regional benchmarks for inclusivity and support.

Closing Reflection

Today’s stories underscore Zambia’s ongoing efforts to balance political reform, social justice, cultural diplomacy, and regional cooperation. The country’s leadership is navigating complex diplomatic issues, legislative reforms, and social challenges—all while fostering national pride through cultural achievements and sports. Readers should watch for developments in electoral reform debates, the progress of the refugee integration policies, and the resolution of the Lungu burial dispute, as these will significantly shape Zambia’s trajectory in the coming months.