News Digest - Friday, September 26th, 2025

Our nation navigates a day of significant developments across energy, youth empowerment, and governance, showcasing efforts to bolster economic resilience and safeguard citizens' well-being amidst ongoing challenges. Key themes include proactive steps to mitigate load shedding impacts, advancements in public health, and investments in our future leaders, all underpinned by crucial economic indicators.

Main Stories

1. Government Prioritizes Electricity for Vulnerable Communities Amid Load Shedding
   President Hakainde Hichilema has directed Zesco to guarantee 10-15 hours of daily electricity for vulnerable households and small businesses in 21 compounds, specifically targeting salons, barbershops, welders, and perishable goods traders to protect livelihoods and reduce economic vulnerability during the power crisis.
2. Youth Summit Ignites National Potential with Major Private Sector Backing
   Yango Zambia's sponsorship of the BeRelevant Youth Summit 2025 facilitated a dynamic platform in Lusaka for over 800 young leaders, government officials, and innovators, focusing on leadership and entrepreneurship, with initiatives expected to positively influence an estimated 50,000 Zambians through youth-led community projects.
3. Contraception Use Reaches 52% Among Married Women, Funding Increases
   Zambia's modern contraceptive prevalence rate among married women has risen to 52%, with the Ministry of Health increasing domestic funding for reproductive health commodities to $4.5 million in 2025, a 67% rise from 2023, marking significant progress in family planning access and health investment.
4. NPA Dismisses Prosecutors Failing Mandatory Degree Requirement
   The National Prosecutions Authority has dismissed over 40 prosecutors for failing to obtain a Bachelor of Laws degree within the agreed timeframe, upholding professional standards required by the NPA Act to ensure prosecutorial functions are handled by qualified legal professionals.
5. CTPD Advocates for Increased Health Funding Following US Aid Withdrawal
   The Center for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) has urged the government to significantly increase the health sector's budgetary allocation and explore higher taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary beverages to build resilience after the withdrawal of US aid, stressing the need for sustainable domestic financing.

Other Notable Stories

• Crime & Justice:
  • Lusaka Police detained three Matero women for possessing K97,500 in counterfeit K500 notes, following a report from a local liquor store owner who identified one suspect attempting to use fake currency on September 25th.
  • Former Lumezi MP Munir Zulu has petitioned the High Court, alleging degrading treatment including searches of his private parts by named officers at Mwembeshi Correctional Facility, claiming it subjects him to ridicule and sexual advances from inmates.
• Sports Development:
  • The Ministry of Sports invested over K1 million to support the Zambia Mixed Martial Arts national team's participation in the World Martial Arts Championship in Georgia, covering travel, accommodation, and attire.

Key Takeaways & Watchpoints

• Monitor the implementation and impact of Zesco's targeted electricity supply plan on vulnerable communities and small businesses in the 21 designated compounds.
• Track the rollout and community influence of the youth-led initiatives catalysed by the BeRelevant Youth Summit 2025 across the nation.
• Observe the government's response to CTPD's call for increased health funding and potential tax adjustments in the forthcoming 2026 National Budget.