AGP Executive Report

Cultural Tourism & Unity: President Hichilema reaffirmed government support for traditional ceremonies like the Lukwakwa, saying they preserve Zambia’s heritage while boosting unity and social cohesion—plus more development in chiefdoms through CDF projects. Women’s Football & Travel: The Copper Queens jetted to Kampala for the 2028 Olympic qualifier first leg against Uganda, with a 25-member squad and foreign-based players joining en route, aiming to turn lessons from WAFCON into Olympic qualification. Youth Sports Camp: Zambia’s Copper Princesses (U-17 women) departed for Morocco for final preparations ahead of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, including friendlies against China. Tourism Safety Warning: Malawi’s Kuti Wildlife Reserve in Salima was reportedly vandalised and torched to the ground after World Tourism Day, reigniting concerns over reserve protection and community tensions. Tourism Policy Push: Government reiterated a target of five million tourists, with culture and tourism positioned as key engines for inclusive growth and diplomacy. Visa & Travel Planning: The US expanded a refundable visa bond requirement for B1/B2 visas for citizens of 50 countries—India is not listed—while Ghana opened talks on a possible Luxembourg/Benelux visa waiver. Sports Travel Deals: Malawi Scorchers’ Olympic qualifier ticket discounts are available online, encouraging fans to book ahead for the Bingu National Stadium match.

Tourism Push: Government reaffirmed a target of five million tourists, with Vice President Mutale Nalumango stressing cultural tourism, private-sector partnerships and community involvement as Zambia’s growth engine. Diplomatic Funfair: Lusaka’s 2026 Diplomatic Fun Fair (Oct 3) is set to showcase culture and boost tourism links, with the Diplomatic Corps pitching it as a “global village” for trade and investment. Street Trade Policy: UPND backed Lusaka City Council’s plan to relocate street vendors from undesignated areas, citing market capacity and enforcement with police. US Visa Bonds: The US rolled out a $10,000–$20,000 refundable visa bond for B1/B2 applicants from 50 countries; India is not on the list, but several African nations are. Grow Zambia & UAE Deals: President Hichilema says his UAE trip was for work under the Grow Zambia Agenda, pointing to US$2.14bn agreements and more deals expected, including a planned Health City near KKIA. Airtel Tech Fellowship: Airtel Africa Foundation expanded its Tech Fellowship to Zambia, supporting 50 students at UNZA and CBU with tuition, accommodation and mentorship. Sports & Travel Tie-in: Zambia’s Copper Queens begin a crucial Olympic qualifier in Uganda, while local league openers (Nkana/Trident, Power/Konkola Blades, Nkwazi/Roan) add more match-day travel demand.

US Travel Rules: The US State Department has published a list of 50 countries whose citizens must post visa bonds of up to $20,000 (about KSh 1.29m–KSh 2.59m) for B1/B2 visitor visas, with African nations making up 30 of the list; India is not on it. UK–Zambia Investment Push: President Hakainde Hichilema met the UK Trade Commissioner for Africa and urged a bigger British investment drive under the Grow Zambia Agenda, pointing to clean energy, agriculture and mining. Zambia Tourism Diplomacy: Zambia’s Diplomatic Corps will host a 2026 Diplomatic Fun Fair on Oct 3, with 30+ missions showcasing culture, food and heritage to boost tourism and investment links. Sports & Travel Interest: Zambia’s Copper Queens interim coach Charles Haalubono says the team must turn lessons from WAFCON into action for the Oct 8 Olympic qualifier first leg in Kampala against Uganda. Airtel Tech for Students: Airtel Africa Foundation expands its Tech Fellowship to Zambia, backing 50 students at UNZA and CBU with tuition, accommodation, laptops and mentorship. Road to the Border: Lumwana–Kambimba border road works are underway in North-Western Province, expected to improve trade with the DRC and create local jobs.

Travel Disruption: Burkina Faso’s friendly with Argentina on Oct 3 is in doubt after the team was stranded in Morocco due to flight problems, with players reportedly boycotting training as the match nears. Zambia Sports & Tourism: Nkwazi and Roan United kick off Zambia’s top-flight return showdown on Saturday at Edwin Imboela Stadium, while Nkana and Power Dynamos open their transitional league campaigns away—both matches are set for 15:00. Grow Zambia Agenda, UAE Deals: President Hakainde Hichilema says his UAE trip was for work, not medical treatment, and targets more investment deals beyond the US$2.14bn already agreed, including a planned Health City near KKIA with hotels and tourism-linked facilities. Catholic Church & Local Calm: African bishops, through SECAM, expressed solidarity with Lusaka Archbishop Alick Banda after his arrest over a car gift, urging Zambians to stay calm and united. Diplomatic Fun Fair: Zambia’s Diplomatic Corps will host a 2026 Diplomatic Fun Fair on Oct 3 with 30+ missions, pitching cultural heritage, food and tourism as a “global village” for investment and trade links. Regional Travel Signals: South Africa is on track for record tourist numbers in 2026, even as the UK and US keep issuing “exercise extreme caution” travel alerts.

Catholic Solidarity & Unrest: African bishops, through SECAM, voiced solidarity with Zambia’s arrested Lusaka Archbishop Alick Banda, urging Catholics to stay calm and united while legal processes run their course. Sports & Travel Mood: Copper Queens interim coach Charles Haalubono says the team must turn lessons from WAFCON into action as they head to Kampala for a key Olympic qualifier against Uganda on 8 October. Tech for Tourism-Linked Skills: Airtel Africa Foundation expands its Tech Fellowship to Zambia, backing 50 UNZA and Copperbelt University students with tuition, accommodation, laptops and mentorship. Diplomatic Fun Fair: Zambia’s Diplomatic Corps will host a 2026 Diplomatic Fun Fair on 3 October, pitching cultural experiences and tourism links while encouraging investment and trade. Road & Border Trade: Lumwana–Kambimba border road works are underway in North-Western Province under a PPP, promising faster movement of goods between Zambia and the DRC and local jobs. Visa Watch: A US proposal to require bonds for some business and tourist visa applicants could make travel costlier for affected countries.

Road & Trade: Lumwana–Kambimba’s 80km border road works are now on site in Mwinilunga, with residents in North-Western cheering the PPP project as a boost for cross-border trade with the DRC and local jobs. Diplomacy & Tourism: Zambia’s Diplomatic Fun Fair is set for Oct 3 with 30+ missions, promising a “global village” of culture, food and heritage while pushing the Grow Zambia Agenda. Health Tourism Push: Government signed a US$2bn deal in the UAE for a Lusaka Medical City—positioning the capital as a Southern Africa health-tourism hub. Safari & Conservation: SUJÁN Group has acquired two Zambia safari camps (Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro), expanding its conservation-led portfolio. Education Funding: HELSB is urging more private-sector investment in student loans after 45.3% of student financing needs went unfunded in 2025. Travel Disruption Watch: Cross-border bus operators want priority lanes at Namibian weighbridges to cut long queues that delay passengers. Luxury Safari Trend: A new Luangwa private retreat (Luangwa Safari House) is drawing 2026/27 bookings for exclusive, walk-and-drive wildlife experiences in South Luangwa.

Diplomatic Fun Fair: Zambia’s Diplomatic Corps will stage the 2026 Diplomatic Fun Fair on October 3, with 30+ missions expected, pitching cultural heritage as a tourism and investment bridge under the Grow Zambia Agenda. Health Tourism Push: Government has signed a US$2bn deal in the UAE to build a Medical City in Lusaka (Airport City), aimed at turning Zambia into a Southern Africa health-tourism hub with paediatric cardiac and renal transplant centres. Safari Investment: Indian luxury group SUJÁN has acquired Zambia’s Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro in Lower Zambezi, expanding its conservation-led safari portfolio. Student Finance: HELSB is urging more private-sector investment in student loans, citing a large funding gap and proposing products that cover tuition, accommodation and learning materials. Health Sector Protection: Government called for stronger public-private partnerships to safeguard health-sector gains as donor funding pressures grow. Cross-Border Travel Fix: Bus operators want priority lanes at weighbridges to cut long queues that delay passenger travel. Zambia Tourism Spotlight: A new luxury safari retreat in South Luangwa is drawing attention for blending high-end stays with conservation-led guiding. Regional Context: KAZA launched a regenerative nature-based tourism initiative to boost livelihoods and local enterprises across member states.

Health Tourism Deal: Zambia signed a US$2bn agreement in the UAE to build a Medical City in Lusaka’s Airport City, aiming to cut the need for Zambians to travel abroad for complex care, with centres for paediatric cardiac and renal transplant/kidney disease plus expanded oncology and training. Safari & Conservation Investment: Indian luxury group SUJÁN acquired Zambia’s Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro in Lower Zambezi National Park, expanding its conservation-led safari portfolio across Africa. Cross-Border Transport: Bus operators want priority lanes at Namibian weighbridges to reduce long queues behind trucks, easing delays for passengers travelling through Zambia. Visa Policy Watch: The US is proposing visa bonds up to $15,000 for certain business and tourist applicants, a move that could raise travel costs. Regional Tourism & Culture: Botswana marked 60 years of independence amid controversy over authorising elephant killings for celebrations, while the Mafwe Lusata Cultural Festival marked 45 years of heritage and unity. Local Travel Disruption: Tanzania’s upcountry bus and lorry drivers’ strike disrupted long-distance travel after protests over penalties, licence suspensions and the Vehicle Tracking System. Church Legal Update: Lusaka Archbishop Alick Banda was released on bail after a night in custody over an alleged Toyota Hilux case, with the matter set to proceed in court.

Medical Tourism Push: Zambia has signed a US$2bn deal with UAE firm DIHAD to build a Medical City in Lusaka’s Airport City, aimed at making the country a Southern Africa health-tourism hub and cutting the need for patients to travel abroad for complex care. Safari Investment: Indian luxury group SUJÁN has acquired Zambia’s Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro in Lower Zambezi National Park, expanding its conservation-led safari portfolio. Conservation & Livelihoods: KAZA has launched a regenerative nature-based tourism initiative to boost conservation, local enterprises and jobs across the Kavango Zambezi region. Cross-Border Travel Friction: Bus operators are asking for a fast lane at Namibian weighbridges after long truck queues are delaying passenger departures and arrivals. Travel Disruption Abroad: Tanzania drivers’ strike has disrupted long-distance travel, leaving passengers stranded in Dar es Salaam and other regions. Culture on the Move: Zambia’s Ministry of Tourism launches the 2026 Diplomatic Fun Fair in Lusaka on Oct 3 to showcase cultures and promote tourism. Sports & Travel Logistics: Zambia’s AFCON qualifier vs Togo at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium comes with squad and tactical updates as both teams travel for Group I action. Regional Climate Focus: Zambezi Basin states agree on priority interventions for food security, livelihoods and ecosystems under a proposed US$130m climate-resilience programme.

Health Tourism Boost: Zambia signs a US$2bn deal with UAE-based DIHAD to build a Medical City in Lusaka’s Airport City, aiming to keep patients in-country and attract regional referrals, with centres for paediatric cardiac care and renal transplants plus oncology, robotic surgery, training and more. Roads & Tourism Access: Government targets 50km on the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls road during the current parliamentary session, as progress on the 440km corridor has been slow and uneven—key for trade and cross-border travel. Conservation Safaris: SUJÁN acquires Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro in Lower Zambezi National Park, expanding its conservation-led safari portfolio and growing Zambia’s high-end tourism offering. Tourism Events: The Ministry of Tourism launches the 2026 Diplomatic Fun Fair in Lusaka on Oct 3 under “Zambia Moves You,” bringing together 30+ countries to showcase culture and tourism. Travel & Connectivity Watch: Commentary highlights how Turkish Airlines’ removal of Lusaka routes could hurt investor and tourist access, underlining the need for an air connectivity strategy. Court & Clergy: Lusaka Archbishop Alick Banda is released on K80,000 bail after a Toyota Hilux case tied to alleged improper ZRA vehicle disposal; the State must prove its case. Sports (Zambia vs Togo): Togo arrive in Ndola aiming for a result in the AFCON 2027 qualifier, with Zambia looking to respond after an opening defeat to Algeria.

Bail Update: Lusaka Archbishop Dr Alick Banda has been released from Chimbokaila after meeting K80,000 bail conditions, including surrendering travel documents, as his case over alleged unlawful possession of a Toyota Hilux (ALF 7734) continues. Conservation & Safaris: SUJÁN has acquired Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro in Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, expanding its conservation-led safari portfolio into Africa. Tourism Diplomacy: Zambia and Belize signed a joint communiqué to deepen cooperation across tourism, trade, investment, agriculture, conservation and climate change. Climate Resilience: Zambezi Basin states agreed on priority interventions for a proposed US$130m regional climate-resilience programme focused on food security, livelihoods and ecosystems. Sports & Travel: Togo coach Patrice Neveu says his team travelled to Zambia for a result ahead of the Zambia vs Togo AFCON 2027 qualifier in Ndola, with Zambia seeking to respond after an Algeria loss. Connectivity Watch: Commentators warn that Turkish Airlines’ removal of Lusaka from its schedule could hurt tourism and investment by weakening air links.

New Safari Openings in Zambia: Anantara has opened Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River, a stilted luxury camp with villa dining, guided hikes, game drives and river safaris inside Kafue National Park. Conservation-Led Expansion: SUJÁN acquired Chiawa Camp and Old Mondoro in Lower Zambezi National Park, expanding its conservation-first safari portfolio beyond India. Zambezi Investment Deal: Indian hotelier Jaisal Singh (SUJÁN) bought the two camps from Chiawa Safaris, aiming to grow responsible tourism in Zambia’s least-developed protected areas. Air Connectivity Watch: An economist warns Turkish Airlines’ exit from Lusaka could raise travel costs and hurt tourist access, urging a national air connectivity strategy. Tourism Growth Push: Northern Province is being positioned to drive the Grow Zambia Agenda, with calls for private investment in accommodation, transport, cultural and adventure tourism. Visa Rules for Travellers: The UK published a list of 45 countries whose citizens need a visa even for landside transit, including Zambia. UN Investment Pitch: Zambia told the UN it is peaceful and open for investment, with tourism among priority sectors. Court & Travel Documents: Lusaka Catholic Archbishop Alick Banda was granted K80,000 bail and ordered to surrender travel documents in a Toyota Hilux case. Sports & Travel Timing: AFCON 2027 qualifiers round two includes Zambia vs Togo on Tuesday, 29 September.

Court & Travel Disruption: Lusaka Magistrates’ Court granted Archbishop Alick Banda K80,000 bail after he pleaded not guilty over alleged possession of a Toyota Hilux linked to Zambia Revenue Authority vehicle disposal; he must surrender travel documents pending trial. Air Connectivity & Tourism: Economist Kelvin Chisanga warns Turkish Airlines’ permanent exit from Lusaka is a hit to Zambia’s connectivity for investors and tourists, urging a National Air Connectivity Strategy to match rising arrivals. Northern Circuit Push: Northern Province is being positioned to drive the Grow Zambia Agenda, with government calling for more private investment in accommodation, transport, cultural experiences and adventure tourism. AfCON 2027 Fixtures: Round two runs 28 Sept–1 Oct, with Zambia hosting Togo on 29 Sept (18:00 SAST) and a full slate of qualifiers across the region. UK Transit Visa Rule: The UK published a list of 45 countries whose citizens need a visa even for landside transit, including Zambia—important for travellers connecting via UK airports. UN Investment Pitch: Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe told the UNGA Zambia is “not at war,” presenting the country as peaceful and open for investment, including tourism. Luxury Safari Opening: Anantara launched Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River (opened Sept 2026), highlighting a high-end, riverfront safari experience in Kafue.

UNGA Peace Pitch: Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe told the UN General Assembly that Zambia is “not at war,” calling the country peaceful, stable and open for investment after the August 13 elections—though protesters in New York demanded UN action and sanctions over alleged post-election rights abuses. Investment Push: Hichilema is set for a 29–30 Sept working visit to the UAE under the Grow Zambia Agenda, with talks and MoUs expected across mining, agriculture, energy, transport, tourism and healthcare. Tourism & Business: Northern Province’s tourism potential is in focus as the Ministry of Tourism urges private investors to back accommodation, transport, cultural experiences and adventure tourism. Travel & Safari Ideas: A long-time Africa travel advisor shares practical tips for using private air travel to reach safari lodges faster and more comfortably. Conservation Spotlight: KAZA TFCA launched a regenerative nature-based tourism initiative to support local MSMEs—especially women, youth and community businesses—across Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Health Alert for Travellers: Africa CDC warns Zambia is among 10 African countries at risk of Ebola as the DRC outbreak grows, urging stronger border surveillance and preparedness. Macro for Tourism: Zambia targets average 7% growth (2027–2029) as policy shifts from stabilization to expansion, aiming to boost production, investment and exports.

Tourism Investment Push: Zambia’s Tourism Permanent Secretary Evans Muhanga urged more private sector investment in Northern Province, highlighting opportunities beyond the usual circuits—accommodation, transport, cultural and adventure tourism, conference facilities and culinary experiences—during 2026 World Tourism Day in Kasama. Food & Culture Spotlight: The Hotel and Catering Association of Zambia (HCAZ) called for stakeholders to back the gastronomy industry, saying Zambia’s cuisine can strengthen agriculture, create livelihoods and boost tourism; the message came at the Zambia Gastronomy Awards in Lusaka. Energy for Growth: Mercuria and Exergy Energy signed a US$250m financing deal to accelerate electricity generation and transmission projects, supporting Zambia’s Grow Zambia Agenda and the push toward about 10,000MW by 2030–2031. UNGA Investment Pitch: Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe told the UN General Assembly that Zambia is peaceful, stable and open for investment, inviting partners into mining, agriculture, energy, manufacturing, tourism and digital services. Luxury Safari Feature: Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River opened in September 2026, offering elevated tented villas and close wildlife encounters along the Kafue River—elephants, hippos and crocodiles right nearby. Regional Tourism Cooperation: KAZA TFCA launched a regenerative nature-based tourism initiative to support MSMEs across Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe, with a focus on women, youth and community businesses near protected areas. Travel Safety Watch: The US Embassy in Nairobi warned of a possible data breach tied to Ebola screening at Kenyan ports of entry, potentially affecting travellers’ names, passport numbers and health information. AfCON Media & Football Buzz: SuperSport secured rights to beam AfCON Pamoja 2027 qualifiers through finals across Sub-Saharan Africa, with Zambia’s campaign underway after a 3-1 loss to Algeria.

Women’s Football: FAZ has bolstered the Copper Queens’ technical bench ahead of the 2028 Olympic qualifiers against Uganda, bringing in ZESCO Ndola Girls coach Florence Mwila and adviser Wisdom Zulu as interim assistants for Charles Haalubono; the first leg is set for Kampala on 8 October, with the return in Ndola on 13 October. Sustainable Tourism: KAZA TFCA has launched a regenerative nature-based tourism initiative across Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe, backed by the EU and Germany, to support conservation-linked livelihoods and grow MSMEs—especially women, youth and communities near protected areas. Rail & Tourism Inspiration: A 3,100-km luxury rail journey by Rovos Rail’s “Copper Trail” links Victoria Falls to Zambia’s copper belt, then through the DRC and Angola to Lobito—an eye-catching idea for travellers chasing big scenery and regional history. Energy & Investment: Mercuria and Exergy Energy signed a US$250m financing deal to accelerate electricity generation and transmission in Zambia, feeding into the Grow Zambia Agenda and tourism-relevant infrastructure growth. Travel Safety Watch: The US Embassy in Nairobi issued an advisory after a possible data breach tied to traveller information collected during Kenya’s Ebola screening, including names, passport numbers and health details. Sports Travel Angle: Zambia’s AFCON 2027 opener vs Algeria ended 3-1, with Zambia set to host/prepare for the next qualifier cycle as regional match travel ramps up.