News Digest - Monday, October 13th, 2025

Our nation grapples with critical energy challenges impacting daily life, while political focus sharpens on the upcoming 2026 elections and the path to effective governance. On the sporting front, national pride faces a test following the Chipolopolo's World Cup qualifying campaign.

Main Stories

1. President Commits to Resolve Loadshedding, Details Energy Investments
   President Hakainde Hichilema stated he is experiencing sleepless nights working to end prolonged power blackouts, currently leaving Zambians with only about six hours of electricity daily. He outlined specific investments, including adding 300 megawatts of coal power and 100 megawatts of solar at Maamba Collieries next year, aiming for 700MW total there total, plus 100MW solar already completed in Chisamba with another 100MW planned, directly addressing the historic underinvestment in alternative energy sources causing the deficit due to drought.
2. President Hichilema Appeals for Unified UPND Vote in 2026 Elections
   President Hichilema Hichilema urged Zambians to vote for him alongside UPND Members of Parliament and councilors in the August 2026 general elections, expressing concern over reports suggesting only he would win. He emphasized that working with independent or opposition MPs makes implementing the government's development agenda and directives difficult, stating that unified support is crucial for delivering development effectively across our nation.

Other Notable Stories

• Sports: Chipolopolo coach Avram Grant dodged questions about resigning after Zambia's 1-0 home loss to Niger, marking another setback in a World Cup qualifying campaign where the team managed only two wins from seven played matches. Grant maintained the team has improved under him, praised players for "fighting like crazy," and questioned reporters asking about resignation calls.

Key Takeaways & Watchpoints

• Monitor progress on the specific energy investments announced at Maamba (300MW coal, 100MW solar) and Chisamba (200MW solar total) aimed at alleviating loadshedding.
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• Observe the evolving political discourse and voter sentiment regarding party unity versus independent candidates ahead of the 2026 elections.