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Inside Lusaka, Lusaka (2026)

08/03/2026

An ex-convict linked to a series of robberies has died after losing consciousness in Lusaka’s Central Business District while leading police to locations where he had been stealing people’s phones.

The incident is connected to police investigations into a string of robberies in Chilenje and surrounding areas following the arrest and subsequent death of a suspect linked to the crimes.

On March 4, 2026, around 21:30 hours, Chilenje Police Station received a report from Estella Mwape (20) who stated that around 19:30 hours, while walking near the Old State House area, she was attacked by a male suspect. Mwape reported that the attacker struck her on the head with an object and stole her cellphone. She sustained cuts and swelling on her face and was referred to Chilenje Level One Hospital for treatment.

Police spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi said Mwape raised an alarm during the incident, prompting members of the public to pursue the suspect. The public apprehended him and assaulted him before handing him over to police. He was found with two cellphones, one belonging to Mwape and another believed to have been stolen in a separate robbery.

The suspect initially identified himself as Victor Lubasi (39) and admitted to attacking Teresa Kasonde Lupiya (38) on March 3, 2026, leaving her with serious injuries including a laceration to the ear. Further investigations later revealed his true identity as Collins Kasiye Soma (39), an ex-convict.
Police say Soma has been linked to seven robberies in Chilenje and Libala between December 2025 and March 2026, targeting pedestrians—particularly women—in the evenings and stealing phones, cash and other personal belongings, often leaving victims seriously injured.

During investigations, Soma led officers to multiple crime scenes and demonstrated how he carried out the attacks involving seven female victims at different times and locations.

On March 6, 2026, while voluntarily leading police officers to recover stolen phones in the Central Business District, Soma suddenly lost consciousness. He was rushed to Sikanze Police Hospital and later referred to the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

His body is currently in the UTH Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination and formal identification, while investigations into the matter continue.

Inside Lusaka (March 8, 2026).

08/03/2026

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has arrested and charged two additional officials from the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries in connection with the ongoing investigation into the Sustainable Livestock Infrastructure
Management Project (SLIMP).

Those arrested are Succeed Mubanga, Director of Policy, Planning and Information, and Chanda Mulenga, a Stores Officer.

ACC Acting Head of Corporate Communications Chilufya Chisanga said the arrests follow a detailed investigation into the alleged misappropriation of funds from the US$10 million project.

According to Ms Chisanga, the funds—intended to support national livestock infrastructure development—were allegedly diverted through a network of illicit financial transactions and asset acquisitions.

Mr Mubanga, 49, has been charged with two counts of possession of property reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime and two counts of concealment of property, contrary to the Forfeiture of Proceeds of Crime Act No. 19 of 2010.

“The suspected proceeds of crime are estimated at K11.1 million and include a motor vehicle, investments in Government bonds, and a residential house,” Ms Chisanga said.

Ms Mulenga, 33, has been charged with one count of possession of property reasonably suspected to be proceeds of crime and two counts of concealment of property, also contrary to the Forfeiture of Proceeds of Crime Act No. 19 of 2010.

Ms Chisanga added that the properties linked to Ms Mulenga include a modern house located in Kasama District.

She further stated that the arrest of Mr Mubanga and Ms Mulenga brings the total number of suspects arrested in connection with the SLIMP syndicate to nine.

The two suspects have since been released on bond and are expected to appear in court soon.

Meanwhile, the Commission has restricted and initiated seizure of several assets believed to be connected to the case.

08/03/2026

BREAKING NEWS 🚨

Former Lumezi constituency MP, Munir Zulu has officially been released from prison after completing his sentence.

The outspoken former lawmaker had been serving time following his conviction but has now regained his freedom after serving the full term.

08/03/2026

Happy Sunday 🙏
May God open doors for you this week that no one can close.
If you believe it, say AMEN.

07/03/2026

A tragic incident has occurred in Chingola, where a man is alleged to have killed his ex-wife and their eight-year-old son before later being found dead in what is suspected to be su***de.

Frank Sinkala, 42, is believed to have first killed his former wife, Chomba Chanda, 40, at his house in Nchanga North on Thursday before allegedly abducting their son from Chiwempala Township, where the child had been staying with his mother.

Copperbelt Province Police Commanding Officer Mwala Yuyi confirmed the incident, which was reported by a Chingola resident who discovered the body of the boy.

“Brief facts of the matter are that on Friday around 05:00 hours, the reporter went jogging behind Nchanga Rangers Football Club Stadium. While jogging, he came across the body of a boy lying on the ground,” Mr Yuyi said.

He explained that police officers from Derricky Chiludika Police Post under Nchanga Police Station rushed to the scene and found the boy lying on the ground facing upwards with visible injuries on the neck and head, as well as bruises on the body.

Police also recovered several items from the scene, including a brown cap, a bunch of keys, a blue bag, a knife, a brown face towel, black plastic slippers, and a small notebook containing the names of the boy and his father together with several phone numbers.

While searching the surrounding area for further clues, officers later discovered Sinkala hanging from a tree about three metres from where the boy’s body had been found.

Mr Yuyi said the man had bloodstains on his hands and forehead.

He further added that earlier investigations had already indicated that Sinkala was suspected of killing his ex-wife, Chomba Chanda, on Wednesday.

Investigations into the matter are ongoing.

06/03/2026

SUPREME LEADER OF CONGRESS PARTY EXPELLED

Peter Chanda has been expelled from the New Congress Party (NCP) following allegations that he amended the party constitution and endorsed Makebi Zulu without approval from the National Executive Committee.

The development was announced by NCP Vice President for Administration, Daniel Nyati, who stated that the actions taken by Chanda were done without the ratification of the party’s National Executive Committee

06/03/2026

An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team led by Edward Gemayel visited Zambia from February 26 to March 4, 2026, as part of its routine consultations with the government and other stakeholders.

During the visit, the IMF held discussions with Zambian authorities on recent economic developments, the country’s outlook, and future policy priorities. The Fund acknowledged that Zambia has made significant progress in restoring macroeconomic stability under the recently completed IMF-supported program. Key improvements include the restructuring of much of Zambia’s external public debt, stronger international reserves, recovering economic growth, and declining inflation, which has recently moved into the Bank of Zambia’s target range.

However, the IMF warned that risks remain. Economic growth for 2025 has been revised down to about 4.5%, mainly due to weaker mining performance, slower wholesale trade, and ongoing energy constraints affecting other sectors. Growth in 2026 is projected at 5.5%, partly reflecting a return to normal agricultural output after last year’s bumper harvest. Rising global oil prices and geopolitical tensions could place pressure on inflation and the exchange rate, meaning domestic fuel price adjustments may be necessary to protect government revenues.

The IMF also noted emerging fiscal pressures despite the 2026 budget targeting a strong primary surplus. Increased spending pressures linked to the public wage bill, agricultural support, and election-related expenditures could weaken the fiscal position. The operations of the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) will also need careful management to avoid new quasi-fiscal risks. Without corrective action, the 2026 primary surplus could fall by about 1 percentage point of GDP from the 3.8% previously projected under the IMF program.

The Fund stressed the importance of maintaining fiscal discipline, integrating spending pressures transparently into the budget framework, and continuing reforms to strengthen tax and customs administration in order to broaden the tax base and make the tax system more efficient and equitable.

Zambian authorities expressed interest in a successor IMF program. Initial discussions could begin as early as late April, although formal negotiations are expected to continue after the 2026 general elections once a new government is in place.

During the visit, the IMF delegation met with President Hakainde Hichilema, Finance Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane, Bank of Zambia Governor Denny Kalyalya, senior government officials, civil society organizations, and development partners.

Source: IMF Media Center.

05/03/2026

21 Suspected Illegal Immigrants Nabbed in Nakonde

Security officers in Nakonde District, Muchinga Province, have apprehended 21 suspected illegal immigrants during a joint security operation.

The group comprises 19 Ethiopian nationals and two Tanzanian nationals, who were intercepted at Ilendela Village.

Muchinga Province Police Commanding Officer Dennis Moola confirmed the development, explaining that the suspects were discovered yesterday around 13:00 hours when officers stopped two trucks during the operation. The immigrants, aged between 18 and 35 years, were reportedly hiding in concealed compartments inside fuel tankers.

Meanwhile, Nakonde District Commissioner Marvelous Sikapizye has strongly condemned the growing cases of illegal immigration in the district, calling for heightened vigilance and stricter enforcement measures.

05/03/2026

Mwiimbu Directs Police to Crack Down on Township ‘Junkie’ Gangs

Government has instructed the Zambia Police Service to intensify operations aimed at eliminating youthful criminal gangs commonly known as “junkies” from townships, citing growing public fear caused by their activities.

Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu said the gangs are responsible for a rise in violent crimes and sexual offences, which are leaving many residents feeling unsafe in their communities.

Speaking yesterday in Mazabuka, Southern Province, during the 2026 Zambia Police Service Open Day, Mr. Mwiimbu urged the police command to take decisive action against the gangs. The event was held under the theme “Peaceful Elections: Our Shared Responsibility.”

“Inspector General, I would like to urge you and your office to ensure that you eradicate junkies from our townships. Members of the public are living in fear as a result of junkies terrorising them in various areas,” Mr. Mwiimbu said.

The minister also assured the nation that Government is committed to ensuring a free and fair general election on August 13 this year.

He further warned against the spread of false information on social media, particularly concerning the health of the Head of State. Mr. Mwiimbu said law enforcement agencies will continue pursuing individuals who publish such falsehoods.

“Some of those responsible have already been apprehended, and police will ensure that the remaining culprits are also brought to book,” he said.

Mr. Mwiimbu also expressed concern over continued reports of stock theft, murders, and attacks on elderly citizens, often linked to accusations of witchcraft, describing the trend as deeply troubling.

05/03/2026

The Man Who Stayed Loyal to UPND Despite a Last-Minute Adoption Setback

By Lister K***a – Livingstone

In Livingstone’s political circles, Bright Hanakamba is a name that resonates strongly among party structures and grassroots supporters. Known for his charismatic personality and strong connection with the people, Hanakamba has long been a familiar figure within the United Party for National Development (UPND) ranks.

During the party’s internal adoption process ahead of the 2021 general elections, Hanakamba emerged victorious in the party primaries at ward, constituency, district, and provincial levels for the Livingstone mayoral position. However, in a surprising turn of events, he was not awarded the final adoption certificate.

Despite the unexpected setback, Hanakamba remained steadfast in his loyalty to the party. Instead of stepping back, he continued to actively campaign for UPND and its leader, Hakainde Hichilema, during the August 2021 elections when the party was still in opposition.

Like a determined lion unwilling to abandon its purpose, Hanakamba has maintained his commitment to serve the people of Livingstone. Today, he has once again entered the race for the Livingstone mayoral seat, driven by the same passion and determination.

With a reputation for party loyalty and strong grassroots backing — demonstrated by his earlier dominance in the party’s adoption process — Hanakamba stands out as a formidable contender.

While internal adoption processes may determine candidates, the 2026 general elections are expected to reflect a changing political landscape where voters increasingly focus on personal leadership qualities, track record, and performance, rather than party affiliation alone.

Having already built strong support among grassroots members and party structures, Bright Hanakamba appears determined to convert that support into victory.

If momentum continues in his favour, supporters believe August 2026 could mark a defining moment in his political journey.

05/03/2026

Government Pledges to Protect Economic Stability

President Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to safeguarding Zambia’s economic stability while building on recent gains to stimulate growth and expand opportunities for citizens.

The Head of State also expressed gratitude to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for its support during Zambia’s 38-month Extended Credit Facility (ECF) programme, which successfully concluded after six reviews.

President Hichilema said his administration is determined to translate the country’s improved economic stability into more employment opportunities for Zambians.

The President made the remarks yesterday in a Facebook post following a meeting with the new IMF head of mission for Zambia, Edward Gemayel, at State House. Mr Gemayel was accompanied by the IMF Resident Representative Eric Lautier and has taken over the role from Mercedes Vera Martin.

“We held a meeting with the new IMF head of mission for Zambia, Mr Edward Gemayel, accompanied by the IMF resident representative, Mr Eric Lautier. Mr Gemayel takes over from Ms Mercedes Vera Martin,” President Hichilema said.

“We also expressed gratitude to the IMF for its support during our 38-month Extended Credit Facility programme, which concluded successfully after six reviews.”

The IMF Executive Board completed the final review of the programme in January this year, unlocking approximately US$190 million, bringing total disbursements under the programme to about US$1.7 billion.

The US$1.7 billion programme, which began in August 2022, was aimed at restoring Zambia’s debt sustainability. Following its conclusion, Zambia is now pursuing a successor programme rather than extending the existing facility.

The programme helped the country navigate external economic shocks and strengthen resilience, positioning Zambia as a model for other nations implementing similar reforms.

05/03/2026

Speaker Urges Political Parties to Field More Women Candidates

Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti has called on political parties to adopt deliberate policies that ensure at least 30 percent of their candidates are women in order to strengthen female representation in politics.

Ms. Mutti emphasized the need for political organisations to build strong mentorship systems for women, challenge harmful stereotypes, and firmly address violence against women in politics, which continues to hinder their participation.

Speaking yesterday during the Women in Leadership Conference, the Speaker said her experience in Parliament has shown the important role women play in shaping meaningful legislative debates and national policy.

“As Speaker, I have witnessed first-hand the value that women bring to legislative debates, oversight, and national policy direction,” she said.

She noted that when women participate fully in governance, the quality of public discourse improves, particularly in areas such as social justice, service delivery, health, education, and community development.

Ms. Mutti further highlighted that Zambia has made significant progress in promoting gender equality, pointing to the introduction of progressive laws, gender-responsive policies, and growing advocacy aimed at increasing women’s political participation.

She added that the proportional representation system offers an important opportunity to boost women’s presence in elected positions.

“This reform must not remain a technical adjustment to our electoral system,” she said. “It must become a practical pathway for broadening participation and addressing historical imbalances in representation.”

Inside Lusaka

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