AGP Executive Report

Passport & prison access: Lawyers for UK-based Zambian content creator Lillian Mutambo demand her passport be restored, saying the cancellation is unlawful and unconstitutional, while Zambia Correctional Service has tightened visitor access at Mukobeko Prison, requiring written clearance from Lusaka for detained opposition leaders. UN diplomacy & tourism links: Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe dismissed claims of diaspora protests at UNGA81, saying Zambia was warmly received, and Zambia signed a joint communique establishing diplomatic relations with Andorra—flagging sustainable tourism, digital governance, education and climate action. Aviation & tourism growth: Zambia will host AviaDev Africa 2027 at the Lusaka International Convention Centre (9–11 June), aiming to boost airline connectivity that could make 2027 an easier year for multi-stop trips to Victoria Falls, South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi and Kafue. Conservation travel draw: White rhinos have arrived at Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve in Zimbabwe for the first time, adding a rare chance to see both black and white rhinos in one protected area. Sports (watch): CAN 2027 qualifying kicks off with Algeria hosting Zambia in Group I, starting a new chapter under coach Brahim Hemdani.

Global Health & Travel: ACS H.O.P.E. says it expanded surgical training and access across Ethiopia, Rwanda and Zambia, completing 32 trips and 131 teaching experiences despite outbreaks and regional instability. Diplomacy & Tourism: At UNGA81, Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe dismissed social-media claims of diaspora protests, while Zambia signed a joint communique with Andorra to boost cooperation including sustainable tourism. Connectivity Boost: Zambia will host Aviadev Africa 2027 at Lusaka International Convention Centre (9–11 June), with airlines and tourism stakeholders pushing new routes—an opportunity to pair Lusaka meetings with Victoria Falls, South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi and Kafue. Hospitality Spotlight: NIZUC Resort & Spa (Cancún) earned its first One MICHELIN Key, a reminder of rising global standards in resort experiences. Rhino Tourism (Region): Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve welcomed white rhinos for the first time, adding a rare black-and-white viewing draw for visitors. Sports & Travel Demand: CAN 2027 qualifiers kick off with Algeria hosting Zambia in Tizi Ouzou, setting up fresh travel interest around matchday fixtures.

Presidential tenure debate: Zambia’s renewed talk on extending presidential power is being framed as a repeat of earlier constitutional battles, with commentators urging the country to focus first on long-term development continuity. Diplomacy & tourism links: Zambia used UNGA81 in New York to build new partnerships under the Grow Zambia agenda, including cooperation areas such as eco-tourism, trade and investment. Rhino tourism boost: Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve in Zimbabwe welcomed white rhinos for the first time alongside its black rhinos—an attraction win for visitors in the wider Victoria Falls area. WTM Africa 2027: Buyer registration is open for WTM Africa 2027 (7–9 April 2027, Cape Town), with Zambia listed among Southern Africa destinations expected to feature on the show floor. Hospitality investment: Banyan Group moved to take a majority stake in Newmark Hotels & Reserves, expanding its African hotel and lodge footprint that includes Zambia-linked regional travel demand. Road safety: A Nyimba District crash on the Great East Road killed a five-year-old and injured five others after a tyre burst. Travel tech note: Starlink users in Zimbabwe with internationally registered accounts face a 30-day roaming limit, disrupting service for some travellers. Sports travel: Zambia’s Chipolopolo complete camp in Algeria ahead of the AFCON 2027 qualifier against hosts Algeria.

UN Diplomacy for Tourism & Growth: Zambia says it used the first days of UNGA81 in New York to build new partnerships under the Grow Zambia agenda, including diplomatic ties with Uruguay and Vanuatu and meetings aimed at boosting trade, investment, eco-tourism and connectivity. Sports Travel Spotlight: Chipolopolo have completed their squad in Algeria ahead of the 25 September AFCON qualifier vs hosts Algeria, with Zambia’s camp now fully assembled and training set to resume at Tirsathone Stadium. Conservation & Visitor Experience: Anantara Stanley & Livingstone marks World Rhino Day with the arrival of the first white rhinos to the Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve, adding to black rhinos and launching a Rhino Guardian Game Drive for guests. Travel Business Calendar: Buyer registration is open for WTM Africa 2027 (7–9 April 2027, CTICC, Cape Town), with Zambia listed among Southern Africa destinations expected to feature on the show floor. Tech & Skills for Zambia: Airtel Africa Foundation launched a scholarship scheme in Zambia for 50 UNZA and CBU undergraduates, covering tuition, accommodation, laptops and connectivity. Road Safety: A fatal road accident on the Great East Road in Nyimba District killed a five-year-old boy and injured five others after a tyre burst caused a vehicle overturn.

Zambia Tourism & Travel: Lake Kariba is being spotlighted as a scenic, wildlife-rich escape on the Zambezi, with anglers heading to Matusadona National Park and easy access via Kariba Airport or a drive from Victoria Falls—perfect for travellers planning dry-season game viewing. Road Safety: A Nyimba District crash on the Great East Road killed a five-year-old and injured five others after a tyre burst caused a Toyota Noah to overturn. Sports & Travel: Chipolopolo have arrived in Algeria ahead of the 25 September CAN 2027 qualifier vs Algeria, with Zambia also set to host Togo at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on 29 September—good news for fans planning match travel. Business & Payments: KCB’s fintech push gets clearer as Tanzania’s regulator discloses KCB will buy a 22.23% stake in Pesapal, extending digital payments reach across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Zambia. Travel Industry: WTM Africa 2027 buyer registration is open for 7–9 April 2027 in Cape Town, with Zambia among the Southern Africa markets expected to feature.

WTM Africa 2027: Buyer registration is now open for the 7–9 April 2027 event at Cape Town International Convention Centre, with Zambia and other Southern African markets set to expand their presence. Family Safari Planning: Go2Africa released its 2027 annual guide highlighting top family safari destinations, arguing kids can enjoy wildlife adventures long before the teenage years. Sports & Travel Timing: Zambia’s Chipolopolo are in Algeria ahead of the 25 September AFCON qualifier vs hosts Algeria, with the first contingent expected to arrive and preparations focused on recovery. Roads Hit Tourism: The Bulawayo–Victoria Falls road is deteriorating, with some tourists reportedly switching to flights and losing chances to stop at attractions along the route. Conservation Spotlight: A feature highlights Zambia’s black-cheeked lovebird, a rare species tied to mopane woodland and threatened by habitat loss and drought. Tech & Skills: Airtel Africa Foundation launched a scholarship scheme in Zambia for UNZA and Copperbelt University students, covering tuition, accommodation, laptops, connectivity and stipends.

AFCON Travel: Zambia’s Chipolopolo safely landed in Algeria ahead of Friday’s 2027 AFCON qualifier, with the first contingent expected to arrive in Algiers this morning and then travel to Tizi Ouzou for preparations. Roads & Tourism: The Bulawayo–Victoria Falls road is deteriorating fast, and some tourists are switching to flights—hurting stopover opportunities for communities along the route. Women’s Football: Copper Queens assistant coach Charles Haalubono named a 33-member local squad for Olympic qualifying preparations against Uganda, with the first leg in early October and Ndola hosting the return. Wildlife & Conservation: A black-cheeked lovebird spotlight highlights Zambia’s rare species and the threats from habitat loss and drought, while new research tracks African wild dogs making record-breaking journeys across Zambia. Travel Policy Watch: Amnesty International condemns Zambia’s passport cancellations of six critics as unlawful, raising concerns for affected travellers. Royal Tourism in Zambia: Duchess of Edinburgh wraps up a five-day visit in Livingstone, including a trachoma eye camp and community engagements tied to sight-loss prevention.

AFCON Build-Up: Zambia’s Chipolopolo have arrived safely in Algeria for the 2027 AFCON qualifier against hosts Algeria on Friday, settling in Tizi Ouzou ahead of recovery and final preparations. Roads & Tourism: The Bulawayo–Victoria Falls road is worsening fast, pushing some tourists to fly instead of driving to Zimbabwe’s tourism hub—hurting roadside stops and community attractions. Copper Queens Camp: Assistant coach Charles Haalubono has named a 33-member local squad for the Copper Queens’ Olympic qualifying preparations against Uganda, with foreign-based players expected to join later. Travel Rights Watch: Amnesty International says Zambia’s cancellation of six critics’ passports is unlawful and could trap people in de facto statelessness, as scrutiny grows over “national security” claims. Royal Tourism Spotlight: Duchess of Edinburgh continues her Zambia visit in Livingstone, including a women’s health “Wellness Day” and trachoma eye-camp engagements. Wildlife & Conservation: Three African wild dog brothers have been tracked across Zambia in a record-breaking 4,126km dispersal to connect with mates, underscoring the need for protected corridors. Sports Tourism: Power Dynamos and Red Arrows clash in the Charity Shield at Nkoloma Stadium as clubs juggle continental and domestic ambitions.

Duchess of Edinburgh in Zambia: Sophie’s five-day royal tour continues with a Livingstone “Women’s Integrated Sexual Health” WISH wellness day, a visit to the Wayi Wayi Art Centre, and a rural eye camp at Mukuni Rural Health Centre as she backs the fight against trachoma and preventable sight loss. Wildlife & conservation: New research highlights three African wild dog brothers making a record 4,126km trek across Zambia to connect with mates, underscoring the need to protect connected wildlife corridors. Tourism growth push: Zambia says it has welcomed 1.5 million international tourists this year toward a 2.5 million target, pointing to visa waivers, marketing, and museum modernisation to diversify attractions. Border & travel infrastructure: Chirundu Border Post modernisation is set to move into full-scale construction next month, with works expected to take 18 months. Sports tourism: Zambia targets World Rugby Sevens Division Three qualification at the Africa Men’s Sevens Series in Kampala (Sept 26–27). Regional connectivity: Southern Africa’s exchanges move toward deeper financial connectivity via the SADC Exchange Gateway, aiming to make cross-border investing easier.

Guinness & EV Travel: A Volkswagen ID. Buzz has earned a Guinness World Record after completing a 99,767km, 445-day electric circumnavigation through 92 countries, highlighting how EV travel is becoming more practical for long-haul adventurers. Zambia Tourism & Growth: Zambia welcomed 1.5 million international tourists this year toward a 2.5 million target, with visa waivers, marketing, and museum modernisation (digitised heritage) pushing the “Grow Zambia” agenda. Wildlife & Conservation: Three African wild dog brothers have trekked 4,126km across Zambia to reach new breeding grounds—an inspiring reminder that protecting connected wildlife corridors matters for endangered species. Royal Tourism Spotlight: Duchess of Edinburgh’s Zambia visit continues to draw attention to Livingstone and Victoria Falls, while her trachoma eye-camp engagement puts health tourism and community impact in focus. Cross-Border Travel Safety: Chirundu Border Post modernisation is set to ramp up next month, with construction expected to finish in about 18 months—good news for smoother regional travel.

Royal Tourism Spotlight: Duchess of Edinburgh Sophie wrapped up her Zambia tour with a moving visit to a Livingstone eye clinic, where trachoma survivors celebrated restored sight with a joyful dance. Wildlife & Conservation: Three African wild dog brothers set a new record, dispersing 4,126 km across Zambia to reach the Luangwa Valley ecosystem—highlighting the need to protect connected wildlife corridors. Women’s Health & Culture: Sophie also toured Livingstone’s WISH “Wellness Day” for women and girls and met artists at the Wayi Wayi Art Centre tackling issues like gender relations and domestic violence. Travel & Nature Inspiration: A safari-style travel feature spotlights Victoria Falls and the Chobe River, with readers getting practical ideas for planning wildlife trips. Sports Tourism: Zambia’s rugby sevens team targets World Rugby Division Three qualification at the Africa Sevens in Kampala (Sept 26–27), while Power Dynamos and Red Arrows clash in the Charity Shield at Nkoloma Stadium. Border Travel Update: Chirundu Border Post modernisation is set to ramp up next month, with works expected to take about 18 months.

Royal Travel Spotlight: Duchess Sophie wrapped up her Zambia tour with a visit to Mukuni Rural Health Centre in Livingstone, learning about trachoma elimination and even joining a clinic dance—after earlier luggage delays and close wildlife encounters. Wildlife & Conservation: New research highlights African wild dogs’ record journeys across Zambia—one pack nearly 2,500 miles and another 4,126km—showing why protecting connected habitats matters for endangered species. Tourism Growth: Zambia welcomed 1.5 million international tourists this year toward a 2.5 million target, with calls to keep improving marketing, museums, and visitor access. Travel Infrastructure: Chirundu Border Post modernisation is set to ramp up next month, with construction expected to finish in 18 months. Sports Tourism: Absa Bank Zambia backs the Sept 26 Lusaka Absa Marathon with 11,500 runners and international entries, supporting ZAPD. Regional Travel Context: Zambia’s rugby sevens team targets World Rugby Division Three qualification at the Africa Sevens in Kampala (Sept 26–27).

Border & Infrastructure: Chirundu Border Post modernisation is set to move into full-scale construction in October, with Government expecting completion in 18 months as the Chirundu Border Consortium mobilises equipment on site. Royal Tourism & Wildlife: Duchess of Edinburgh Sophie continues a five-day Zambia tour after a luggage mishap, visiting Conservation Lower Zambezi and meeting Zambia’s first all-women ranger unit, then heading to Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park for Victoria Falls—complete with a memorable night-time hippo encounter. Conservation Travel Buzz: New tracking research highlights African wild dogs’ record dispersal across Zambia (4,126 km), underscoring both the promise of connected habitats and the risks from snares—great news for wildlife tourism, but a warning for conservation. Air Connectivity: Proflight Zambia expands its fleet with three additional BAE Jetstream 41 aircraft, boosting domestic capacity and reliability and supporting Zambia’s push to grow tourism. Sports Tourism: Absa Bank Zambia backs the Lusaka Absa Marathon on 26 September, with international runners and fully funded trips for winners.

Royal Travel & Conservation: The Duchess of Edinburgh is in Zambia for a five-day visit, reaching Victoria Falls and later touring Conservation Lower Zambezi, where she saw anti-poaching work, a canine detection unit, and met Zambia’s first all-women ranger unit. Air Travel Update: Eswatini Air says operations are back to normal after cancelling flights due to a minor technical issue on RN105, apologising to affected passengers. Wildlife Tourism & Research: Three African wild dog brothers have been tracked travelling 4,126 km across Zambia—reported as the longest recorded dispersal by an African mammal—highlighting both connectivity and the risks from snares. Sports Tourism Boost: Absa Bank Zambia has committed K14 million to the Absa Marathon on 26 September in Lusaka, with international runners and prizes including funded trips and accommodation. Aviation & Connectivity: Proflight Zambia expands with three new BAE Jetstream 41 aircraft, aiming to grow domestic tourism and improve schedule reliability. Policy & Tourism Targets: Cabinet backs the Grow Zambia Agenda, including a target of five million tourist arrivals.

Air Connectivity Boost: Proflight Zambia has expanded its fleet with three BAE Jetstream 41 aircraft, taking its total to 13 and adding capacity and frequency for domestic tourism growth. Royal Tourism Spotlight: Duchess of Edinburgh Sophie continued her Zambia visit in Lusaka and Lower Zambezi, meeting conservation groups and Zambia’s first all-women ranger unit, after a luggage mishap forced her to adapt her outfits. Wildlife Travel Story (Conservation): New research highlights how Zambia’s African wild dogs can travel over 4,000km to find mates, underscoring the need to protect connected landscapes. Regional Wildlife Corridors: Satellite-tracked Chizarira vultures have covered 19,000km across southern Africa, pointing to migration routes that cross borders and demand cross-border cooperation. Travel Policy Watch: The EU published a Schengen visa list affecting citizens from 51 African countries, shaping planning for European travel. Tourism & Culture: A luxury safari feature spotlights exclusive experiences beyond national parks, while Jacada Travel added 39 vetted purpose-driven experiences to its Positive Impact collection.

Royal Zambia Visit: President Hakainde Hichilema and First Lady Mutinta Hichilema welcomed Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Edinburgh at Community House, with tourism, education, health and the green economy flagged as key areas for UK–Zambia cooperation. Conservation & Wildlife Tourism: The Duchess spent time in Lower Zambezi conservation work, meeting the Kufadza Female Scouts and seeing anti-poaching operations, including snare removal and canine detection of illegal wildlife products. Local Craft & Responsible Travel: In Lusaka, she toured Jewel of Africa and Imvelo Studios, trying her hand at polishing gemstones and meeting women entrepreneurs and artists working with survivors of gender-based violence. Wildlife Research Spotlight: New study coverage says African wild dogs in Zambia and nearby countries can travel over 4,000km to find mates, underlining the importance of connected habitats for endangered species. Travel Policy Watch: The EU listed 51 African countries whose citizens need a Schengen visa in advance, a heads-up for travellers planning Europe trips.