News Digest - Tuesday, September 23rd, 2025

Today's developments highlight critical strides in energy security, economic empowerment challenges, and ongoing democratic discourse, all pivotal to our nation's stability and growth as we navigate both domestic reforms and regional dynamics.

Main Stories

1. New 100MW Maamba Solar Plant Launched
   Construction begins on a major solar facility in Southern Province, part of government efforts to diversify from hydro dependence and reduce load-shedding, targeting completion by mid-2026.
2. SME Loan Repayment Rate Falls to 22%
   Minister Elias Mubanga reveals only 10,000 of 46,000 state-empowered SMEs are repaying loans, prompting stricter eligibility criteria including mandatory business training for future applicants.
3. Concerns Raised Over Proposed Legislation
   Former Attorney General Musa Mwenye warns bills like the NGO Act and Journalism Bill threaten democratic foundations by potentially restricting civil liberties without judicial oversight.
4. Malawi Election Results May Shift Regional Dynamics
   Former Malawi President Peter Mutharika leads incumbent Lazarus Chakwera with 2 million votes in 24 districts, nearing outright victory—a development with potential diplomatic implications for Zambia.

Other Notable Stories

• Governance & Justice:
  • Fr. Augustine Mwewa alleges parliamentary bias, citing uneven disciplinary action against MPs.
  • Lusaka Magistrate Peter Mungala recuses himself from the "Why Me" hate speech case involving TikToker Francis Kapwepwe, citing professional reasons.
• Sports:
  • Copper Queens coach Nora Häuptle names 42-player squad for WAFCON qualifiers against Namibia, recalling goalkeeper Hazel Nali.
  • Zambia disqualified from Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar due to visa complications.
• Sports Development:
  • K1 million budget unveiled for October’s Chipolopolo legends match featuring 1994 and 2012 AFCON squads.
  • MMA Zambia athletes petition NSCZ demanding governance audit amid leadership disputes.
• Arts & Culture:
  • Vice-President Nalumango mourns comedian Mwine Mushi (51), praising his storytelling that celebrated Zambian identity.
• Diplomacy:
  • President Hichilema warns newly sworn-in ambassadors against treating postings as "holidays," urging diligent national service.

Key Takeaways & Watchpoints

• Energy Diversification Milestone: Maamba Solar’s 2026 completion will test Zambia’s renewable transition amid current load-shedding.
• SME Loan Sustainability: Revised empowerment criteria’s effectiveness in boosting repayment rates warrants monitoring.
• Copper Queens’ Campaign: October’s WAFCON qualifiers against Namibia crucial for tournament preparation.