News Digest - Tuesday, October 7th, 2025

Today's news reflects our nation's focus on economic growth through tourism and tax enforcement, strengthened governance with decisive legal actions, and exciting opportunities for Zambian youth in creative industries. These developments collectively shape our path toward sustainable development and national pride.

Main Stories

1. Tourism Surges in Kafue National Park Following Conservation Partnership
   Kafue National Park has experienced a significant rise in tourist visits over the past three years, with Kasabushi Lodge reporting arrivals jumping from 500 in 2023 to 1,300 this year, driven by the 20-year African Parks management partnership and community engagement initiatives like the Kafue Wild Run. This boosts local employment in Mumbwa, Itezhi-Tezhi, Kasempa, and Kaoma districts, demonstrating how conservation investments directly benefit our communities and economy.
2. Police Chief Orders High Alert Over Incitement to Violence
   Inspector General Graphel Musamba has directed all police commanders to proactively counter incitement to public disorder, specifically targeting a Facebook page threatening nationwide demonstrations. This firm stance reinforces our collective right to safety and lawful assembly while safeguarding national stability against destabilizing rhetoric.
3. ZRA Seizes K7.7 Million in Smuggled Whiskey at Kazungula Border
   Zambia Revenue Authority intercepted 25,200 bottles of smuggled whiskey in Kazungula, preventing K7.7 million in tax evasion after a truck falsely declared its cargo; the importer’s Taxpayer Identification Number (TPIN) was unregistered, highlighting efforts to protect honest traders and secure revenue vital for roads, hospitals, and schools.
4. Former ZRA Head Kingsley Chanda Jailed for Illegal Vehicle Disposals
   Ex-ZRA Commissioner General Kingsley Chanda received a six-year prison sentence, while former Director Calistus Kaoma got nine years, for unlawfully disposing of 22 government vehicles between 2017–2020, underscoring our judiciary’s commitment to accountability and deterring misuse of public assets.
5. AI Revolution Empowers Zambia’s Next-Gen Filmmakers
   The MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) Academy is harnessing AI as a creative tool for African storytellers, with Zambian participant Victor Mwakapila (23) aiming to elevate local cinematography—showcasing how technology can amplify our cultural narratives and open global opportunities for youth.

Other Notable Stories

Wildlife & Environment:

• Four individuals, including a Chinese national, fined K600,000 total by the Ndola Magistrates’ Court for illegal possession of wildlife, with each ordered to pay K160,000 by October 2025 or face imprisonment.
• Fisheries Ministry begins removing over 1,500 unlicensed kapenta rigs from Lake Kariba—exceeding the sustainable limit of 250—to combat overfishing and protect the fishery’s future.

Economy & Finance:

• Tourism Minister Rodney Sikumba emphasized capital markets as critical for job creation and poverty reduction, urging synergy with tourism to unlock Zambia’s economic potential at the Zambia Capital Markets awards.
• Financial expert Trevor Hambayi warns that K4.4 billion in unpaid taxes by companies, per the Auditor General’s report, threatens fiscal stability and domestic revenue goals.
• Botswana advises Zambia to establish a Gemstone Development Fund, blending public and private capital, to support local license holders and boost value addition in the sector.

Sports & Culture:

• Edgar Kazembe won the ZCSA national tennis championship in Ndola, crediting mental strength and preparation, while Christabel Chisongo secured the women’s title—a cheerful display of homegrown athletic excellence.
• Chipolopolo midfielder Clatous Chama anticipates a tough FIFA World Cup qualifier against Tanzania in Zanzibar, with two players injured; the team aims to rebuild momentum for AFCON 2025.
• Zesco United CEO Ponga Liwewe departs after a year due to health reasons following a stroke, with club chairperson Patricia Musiya prioritizing his well-being.

Infrastructure:

• Government commissions rehabilitation of over 50km of township roads in Ndola (32km) and Luanshya (20km), improving urban connectivity and livelihoods on the Copperbelt.

Key Takeaways & Watchpoints

• Conservation-Tourism Synergy: The Kafue National Park model shows how partnerships and community engagement can drive tourism growth and local job creation—setting a benchmark for other protected areas.
• Tax Vigilance: The ZRA’s Kazungula seizure and warnings over unpaid taxes highlight the ongoing need for public cooperation to curb smuggling and ensure revenue funds national development.
• Youth & Tech Advancement: Initiatives like the MTF Academy’s AI training position Zambia to actively shape digital creative industries, turning technological shifts into opportunities for young innovators.