AGP Executive Report

Zambia Entertainment & Culture: Lusaka actor Israel Nyandoro, known as “Spiderman,” has died at 30 while receiving treatment at Mtendere General Mission Hospital, with details of his illness not yet shared. Music & Events: Jason Derulo touched down in Lusaka for the Stanbic Music Festival, with Mwebantu live coverage of his arrival. Sports (Women’s Football): Copper Queens interim coach Charles Haalubono says the team must turn lessons from WAFCON into results as they face Uganda in a crucial 2028 Olympic qualifier first leg on 8 October. Sports (Football Admin): FAZ has named Peter Kaumba to the National Team Technical Committee and Keith Mweemba has stepped aside as chair to focus on wider duties. Sports (Local League): The transitional Super Division season kicks off 3 October with Power Dynamos hosting Konkola Blades at Konkola Stadium. Public Life & Faith: Catholic bishops across Africa voiced solidarity with Zambia’s arrested Archbishop Alick Banda, urging calm and unity. Viral/Youth: Zambian TikToker “Why Me” (Francis Kapwepwe) was released from prison after serving time in a hate speech case, saying he’s a changed man.

Zambia Football: FAZ has appointed Peter Kaumba to the Chipolopolo Technical Committee, adding a former Zambia AFCON 1982 star and Sportsman of the Year to the national team setup. Rugby: Zimbabwe’s Cheetahs received pledged support from Zambia’s rugby circles after winning Africa Cup Sevens in Uganda, with Zambia named among the teams they edged in the tournament. Music/TV: Canal+ confirms Spinners season 2 will roll out in 45+ countries from 25 October, with Zambia included via Zambezi Magic. Local Sports Development: FIFA-backed plans are underway for the “Mfuwe Mags” to build a new pitch and multi-sport facility in Zambia, inspired by Newcastle United fans. Health/Community: Chilanga recorded eight cholera cases, with contact tracing and community sensitisation underway, while five local schools received K800,000 for irrigation to boost school gardens and feeding. Business & Entertainment Crossover: Zambia’s ZICB maintained an ‘A’ credit rating, a reminder that the country’s financial stability story is still running alongside its growing arts and sport momentum. Regional Spotlight: Zimbabwe tycoon Wicknell Chivayo and his wife died in a helicopter crash, ending a high-profile, controversial public life.

Football & Stadium Drama: Zambia’s interim coach George ‘Chicken’ Lwandamina says Chipolopolo must quickly move on after a 2-0 win over Togo, with Albert Kangwanda and Elia Mandanji delivering the goals at Levy Mwanawasa. Sports Tech/Facilities: Togo coach Patrice Neveu complained his side wasn’t respected, while ZESCO says a brief power disturbance hit the stadium lighting and disrupted play. Zambia Church & Democracy: Tonse-Pamodzi backed Catholic bishops and the Council of Churches over concerns about shrinking civic space, arbitrary arrests, political violence, and calls for an independent probe into the death of Hon. Elder Mutotwe Kafwaya. Church Leadership Case: UPND urged due process after Archbishop Alick Banda’s arrest over an alleged ZRA Hilux matter, as bishops warned political polarisation is weakening unity. Economy Watch: Bank of Zambia cut the Monetary Policy Rate to 10.75%, and ERB raised fuel pump prices for October. Entertainment/People: Colgate’s scholarship campaign in Zambia is putting smiles on families, awarding scholarships, laptops/tablets, and vouchers. International Spotlight: Zimbabwe billionaire Wicknell Chivayo and his wife died in a helicopter crash near Harare.

AFCON Qualifiers (Sports): Zambia’s Chipolopolo revived their 2027 AFCON hopes with a gritty 2-0 win over Togo at Levy Mwanawasa, but the night was overshadowed by a stadium blackout—ZESCO says the power trip lasted just 0.2 seconds, yet the floodlights took about 20 minutes to return to full brightness. Stadium Reliability (Sports/Infrastructure): ZESCO says it will work with the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts to redesign the lighting system to prevent similar match-day disruptions. Church & Society (Community): Zambia’s Catholic and Protestant church bodies raised alarms over political tensions, electoral credibility, and arbitrary arrests after the 2026 polls, calling for dialogue and independent investigations. Youth & Skills (Sports/Youth): KidsMove Qualifiers 2026 drew 250 young athletes to OYDC Zambia for safe, school-and-community track and field competition. Music (Entertainment): TKB drops “I Wish You Knew,” a cross-border collaboration featuring Zambian artist Yo Maps and Namibian rapper Lioness. Tech & Learning (Cyber/Media): Cybernovr marks Nigeria’s independence with a 100% scholarship cybersecurity programme for learners. Business & Growth (Arts-adjacent): Indo Zambia Bank says its agriculture portfolio has grown to about K3.3 billion under the Grow Zambia Agenda.

AFCON 2027 (Zambia): Chipolopolo bounced back with a 2-0 win over Togo at Levy Mwanawasa, thanks to Albert Kangwanda’s early strike and Eliya Mandanji’s stoppage-time finish—though the match was marred by an 18-minute blackout that forced the referee to stop play. AFCON 2027 (West Africa): Nigeria were thumped 3-0 by Guinea-Bissau, while Ghana collapsed from a 2-0 lead to lose 4-2 to The Gambia, piling pressure on both teams. Music: TKB links up with Zambian artist Yo Maps and Namibian rapper Lioness for “I Wish You Knew,” aiming to push their Kavango sound across Africa. Sports Development: KidsMove Qualifiers 2026 drew 250 young athletes to OYDC Zambia in Lusaka, with Zambia Athletics president Major Bernard Bwalya officiating. Business/Media: Helios Investment Partners sells Africa Specialty Risks to Vitruvian Partners after regulatory approvals. Economy/Policy: Zambia begins talks with the IMF on a successor ECF programme focused on growth and jobs.

AFCON 2027 (Zambia vs Togo): Chipolopolo bounced back from their Algeria loss with a 2-0 win over Togo at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium, thanks to Albert Kangwanda’s early strike and Eliya Mandanji’s stoppage-time finish—though the match was briefly derailed by an 18-minute power failure. AFCON 2027 (Group shake-up): The wider qualifiers saw Nigeria thumped 3-0 by Guinea-Bissau and Ghana stunned 4-2 by The Gambia, while Zambia’s win kept them in the hunt in Group I. Women’s football (Zambia region): Rumphi Sisters’ goalkeeper Jane Nyirenda earned a call-up to Malawi Scorchers after a tough start in the NBM Women’s Premiership. Fashion & retail (Pan-African brands): AfroQuality opened its flagship store in Accra, with Lusaka set to follow on October 1—spotlighting African apparel, footwear, accessories and literature. Media & sport business: Zambia’s AFCON coverage plans also drew attention, with reports that ZNBC confirmed it will not broadcast Zambia’s away qualifiers. Church & legal drama: Archbishop Alick Banda remained in custody as lawyers pushed to meet bail conditions after a DEC case tied to an alleged Toyota Hilux.

AFCON 2027 Focus: Zambia’s Chipolopolo are back at home to bounce after the Algeria 3-1 loss, with captain Fashion Sakala and coach George Lwandamina insisting they’ll “definitely win” against Togo at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium as qualification pressure mounts. Football Drama: The wider AFCON spotlight also hit Manchester City’s Rayan Ait-Nouri, reportedly sent home from Algeria duty after an angry clash on the bench—adding more noise around the same Zambia-Algeria storyline. Fashion & Lifestyle: A new style feature spotlights the “satin pouch” trend—glossy, impractical but glamorous—ideal for weddings and black-tie events. Travel & Leisure: Anantara’s new Kafue River tented camp in Zambia is drawing attention for its Afro-modern design, river safaris, and luxury touches like steam showers and private spa rooms. Media & Safety: Free Press Initiative founder Joan Chirwa calls for a safer, freer environment for journalists as digital platforms and misinformation reshape news. Business & Culture: AfroQuality opened a flagship store in Accra to help African brands reach beyond local markets, with Lusaka set to open on October 1.

AFCON Focus: Chipolopolo captain Fashion Sakala and coach George Lwandamina insist Zambia can bounce back after the 3-1 Algeria loss, as they host Togo on Tuesday at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium with qualification hopes on the line. Church & Society: Catholic Bishops in Zambia rally behind Archbishop Alick Banda as he pleads not guilty and secures K80,000 bail over alleged unlawful possession of a Toyota Hilux, calling for fairness and due process. Sports Drama: Algeria’s Rayan Ait-Nouri is reportedly sent home from international duty after an apparent bust-up with coaching staff during the Zambia match. Music & Culture: Jazz pianist Tich Makalisa announces he’ll debut new material from his forthcoming EP at the Zimbabwe Jazz Festival (Oct 16) before a Harare show (Oct 17), blending contemporary jazz with African rhythms. Business/Media for Creatives: AfroQuality opens its flagship store in Accra to help African brands reach wider markets, with a Lusaka outlet set for Oct 1. Community Spotlight: Lusaka’s Magistrates’ Court grants Banda bail and orders surrender of travel documents pending trial.

UAE Visit Watch: President Hakainde Hichilema has arrived in Abu Dhabi for a two-day working visit, saying the focus is investment and private-sector-led growth under the Grow Zambia Agenda, with bilateral talks and MoU signings expected. Political Tensions, Explained: Hon. Collins Nzovu fires back at Linda Banks over questions about Abu Dhabi vs Dubai mourning, stressing Abu Dhabi’s normal operations and defending the Presidency. Peace & Governance: Central Province PS Dr. Milner Mwanakampwe warns against “hate” and urges Zambians to protect national interest, while Hichilema tells the UN Zambia remains peaceful and disputes must be handled through legal institutions. Church-State Drama: The DEC summons Lusaka Archbishop Alick Banda over alleged unlawful possession of a ZRA-linked vehicle, with authorities urging calm and proper process. Football Focus: Chipolopolo open AFCON qualifying with a 3-1 loss to Algeria; former midfielder Charles “Chali Cool” Musonda backs coach George Lwandamina’s selection and calls for patience. Sports Beyond Football: Uganda’s She Cranes win the Africa Netball Cup; Zambia’s Beene/Matildah take bronze at the Zone VI Beach Volleyball Tour in Mozambique. Culture & Food: HCAZ pushes investment in Zambia’s gastronomy industry as the Zambia Gastronomy Awards celebrate chefs, markets, and traditional music/dance.

Chipolopolo Focus: Zambia’s AFCON 2027 opener ended 3-1 in Algeria, but coach George Lwandamina insists the team can bounce back—while legend Charles “Chali Cool” Musonda says selection should be merit-based and backs the rebuilding process. Sports Drama: Musonda also points to the impact of Kings Kangwa’s absence after a CAF suspension, and Algeria’s camp saw more fallout as Rayan Aït-Nouri was sent home following an altercation with staff. Church & Protocol: Catholic priest Fr Ignazio Muyunda weighs in on the DEC summons controversy involving Archbishop Alick Banda, arguing the state must follow proper protocol to avoid national drama. Entertainment & Courts: “Zed Farmer” Maria Zaloumis hints she’s back online with a new video as her manslaughter case linked to the death of Enoch Simfukwe continues in court. Culture & Food: HCAZ pushes investment in Zambia’s gastronomy industry as the Zambia Gastronomy Awards spotlight chefs, markets, and traditional music/dance. Netball Spotlight: Uganda’s She Cranes crowned queens at the Africa Netball Cup in Nairobi, with Malawi taking bronze—an event that also raised concerns about admin clarity.

AFCON 2027 Football: Zambia’s Chipolopolo opened their campaign with a 3-1 loss to Algeria in Tizi Ouzou, but interim coach George Lwandamina says the boys played well and can bounce back as they prepare to host Togo in Ndola. Sports Drama: Algeria also sent Manchester City’s Rayan Ait-Nouri home after an altercation with staff during the match, adding more heat to the qualifier. Netball Spotlight: Uganda’s She-Cranes were crowned 2026 Africa Netball Cup queens in Nairobi, while Malawi Queens secured bronze after beating Namibia 50-45 and also booked a spot at the Netball World Cup Sydney 2027. Zambia Arts & Media: Joy Sports Editor Fentuo Tahiru Fentuo will moderate the inaugural Music Meets Football Summit in Lusaka (Oct 15–16), bringing together creatives and sports industry leaders. Luxury Travel in Zambia: Anantara Tented Camp Kafue River opened in September 2026, offering a high-end safari stay with elephants and hippos right by the camp. Politics & Accountability (Opinion): Dr Fred M’membe pushes back on claims about Zambia Army commissioning “shortcuts,” while debates on presidential term limits and accountability continue to dominate public discussion.

Music & Sports Business: Joy Sports Editor Fentuo Tahiru Fentuo will moderate Zambia’s inaugural Music Meets Football Summit in Lusaka (Oct 15–16), bringing together music and football stakeholders for panels, exhibitions and networking. Pan-African Fashion & Media: AfroQuality opened a flagship store in Accra to boost African fashion, lifestyle and literature, with operations already running in Lusaka and other African cities. AFCON 2027 Football: Chipolopolo returned to Ndola after a 3-1 opener loss to Algeria; interim coach George Lwandamina says mistakes and injuries hurt, but insists Zambia must win at home as they host Togo next. Netball (World Cup Qualifier): Malawi Queens finished with bronze at the Africa Netball Cup-World Cup Sydney 2027 qualifier, beating Namibia 50–45 and securing a World Cup berth. Sports Branding: Zambia Police unveiled new kits for Nkwazi FC, Nkwazi Queens and Nkwazi Rugby, pushing rebranding and sponsor partnerships. Tech Recognition: Sparc Systems Limited won ICT Company of the Year at the TICON Africa 2026 Excellence Awards in Livingstone.

AFCON Buzz: Zambia’s Chipolopolo lost 3-1 to Algeria in their 2027 qualifier opener as Fashion Sakala cancelled out Jaouen Hadjam’s early strike, but Ibrahim Maza and Anis Hadj Moussa sealed it; coach George Lwandamina blamed mistakes and injuries and insists Zambia must win at home. Sports & Media: ZNBC says it will not broadcast Zambia’s away AFCON qualifiers due to missing rights, but will show home games like the Togo clash in Ndola. Youth Football: South Africa beat Zambia U-20 4-2 to qualify for the AFCON finals in Ghana, while Amajita will face Mozambique in the COSAFA final. Local Sports Branding: Zambia Police unveiled new kits for Nkwazi FC, Nkwazi Queens and Nkwazi Rugby as part of a rebranding push. Royal Arts/Youth: Prince Edward is set for a five-day US and Canada tour focused on youth, education and the arts. Global Pop Culture: Tennis legend Billie Jean King hailed the Billie Jean King Cup’s growth, noting Zambia’s debut this season.

AFCON Buzz: Zambia’s AFCON 2027 qualifier opener ended in heartbreak as Algeria beat Chipolopolo 3-1 in Tizi Ouzou, with Fashion Sakala cancelling out Jaouen Hadjam’s early strike before Ibrahim Maza and Anis Hadj Moussa sealed it. Matchday Context: The Group I table after Friday has Algeria top on 3 points, with Zambia on 0 after the loss. Broadcast Update: ZNBC says it won’t air Zambia’s away AFCON qualifiers due to missing rights, but will show all home games, starting with Togo at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on 29 September. Local Football: Nkwazi FC unveiled a new kit and team bus ahead of the 2026 Zambia Premier League Transition League, with fundraising plans including replica jersey sales. Sports Culture: Billie Jean King hailed the global growth of the Billie Jean King Cup, noting Zambia’s debut among new entrants. Zambia in the Courts: Dr Katele Kalumba was charged and arrested over alleged cyber harassment of President Hakainde Hichilema.

AFCON Focus: Chipolopolo captain Fashion Sakala says Zambia can shock Algeria in tonight’s sold-out 2027 AFCON qualifier in Tizi Ouzou, recalling his debut win over the North Africans. Broadcast Watch: Zambia’s Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) suspended four stations for 30 days, including KBN TV over election coverage breaches, while others faced issues like unpaid fees. Zambia–US Ties: Hakainde Hichilema’s team reaffirmed a deepened strategic partnership with the United States at UNGA81, with plans to cooperate on health, investment, critical minerals and border transparency. UNGA Diplomacy: Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe dismissed rumours of diaspora protests at the UN, saying Zambia’s delegation was warmly received, and also announced diplomatic relations with Andorra. Sports Schedule: International football fans get the full Friday Sept 25 lineup, including Algeria vs Zambia and other AFCON qualifiers. Politics & Speech: Dr Katele Kalumba was charged and arrested over alleged online threats against President Hichilema, with police urging responsible social media use. Business & Golf: Zambia prepares for a Golf & Investment Summit (Oct 14–20) targeting regional B2B deals, partnerships and market entry.

AFCON Qualifiers: Zambia’s Chipolopolo kick off their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign away to Algeria on Friday, with captain Fashion Sakala backing the team to “beat Algeria” despite the hostile setting. Broadcast Drama: SuperSport faces subscriber backlash after failing to secure rights for CAF AFCON 2027 qualifiers, leaving fans worried they’ll miss national-team action. Football Coaching Buzz: Patrick Vieira leads a wave of new national team coaches as AFCON qualifiers begin, with 48 countries starting group play. Zambia at UNGA81: Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe dismissed claims of diaspora protests at the UN, saying Zambia’s delegation was welcomed, and Zambia signed a joint communique with Andorra. Media Regulation: Zambia’s IBA suspended four broadcasting stations for 30 days over breaches including election coverage standards and unpaid fees. Tech & Youth: Yango Fellowship graduates in Abidjan showcased projects from Zambia and other countries, aiming to grow Africa’s next unicorns. Sports (U20): Amajita and Zambia set for a Cosafa U20 semifinal, with Zambia seeking to keep momentum after strong group results.