Wildlife & Tourism: Zambia will reintroduce cheetahs to the Luangwa Valley for the first time in nearly 30 years, with six cats relocated from protected reserves in South Africa under a government-led conservation programme backed by major partners and funded by the Howard G. Buffett Foundation—aimed at restoring biodiversity and boosting wildlife tourism. Tourism Growth: Tourism Permanent Secretary Evans Muhanga says Zambia is on track toward the 5 million international tourists target by 2030, citing visa liberalisation, conference tourism, ZATEX buyer hosting, and better air connectivity. Regional Air Connectivity Debate: The Barotse Royal Establishment strongly rejects remarks opposing an international airport in Barotseland, arguing it would unlock tourism and investment across Western Province and support “One Zambia, One Nation.” Infrastructure & Trade: TAZARA’s revival is set to boost freight capacity and shift more cargo from road to rail, easing pressure on highways and improving reliability. Economy Watch: The IMF says Zambia’s reserves and inflation gains continue, but fiscal pressures intensified in 2026 due to weaker tax collection, election spending, and subsidy overruns. Elections & Travel Logistics: ECZ ballot printing for the August 13 election is underway in Dubai, with oversight travel largely self-sponsored—raising transparency and cost concerns. Safety on the Road: Yango Zambia and ZRST expanded the Safer Journeys to School initiative in Lusaka to reach over 24,000 children with road safety education and safer school crossings.