AGP Executive Report

Kafue Lodge Opens: Anantara has unveiled a 13-room tented camp on the Kafue River, its first African safari property. Developed with African Parks, the lodge pairs wilderness stays with conservation work in Zambia’s largest national park. Study Abroad in Zambezi: Gonzaga University’s Zambia program is marking 20 years, bringing students to the rural district for community-based learning after visits to Victoria Falls and Botswana. Kenya Travel Alert: Kenya has added travellers arriving from Zambia to enhanced Ebola screening at Nairobi’s JKIA. Officials say the imported case does not indicate widespread transmission and the country remains open to visitors. Regional Tourism: Namibia’s Zambezi Region will host the 2027 Miss Namibia pageants, an event officials say could boost local tourism and business. Visa-Free Travel: Zambia is among 46 African countries whose citizens can visit the Philippines visa-free for up to 30 days; travellers should check entry conditions before booking.

Travel Health: Kenya has added Zambia to 10 countries facing enhanced Ebola screening at Nairobi’s JKIA. Travellers arriving from Zambia will undergo health checks and complete declaration forms. Wildlife Tourism: Three African wild dogs tracked across 2,563 miles of Zambia in nine months, a record journey highlighting the importance of connected habitats for conservation. Visitor Access: Zambians are among 46 African nationalities eligible for visa-free stays of up to 30 days in the Philippines; travellers need a passport valid for six months and a return or onward ticket. Events & Tourism: The Stanbic Music Festival, featuring Jason Derulo, drew attention to how major events can support Zambia’s tourism economy through spending on hotels, food and transport.

Wildlife Tourism: Three African wild dogs travelled about 2,563 miles across Zambia in nine months, a remarkable journey that highlights the importance of connected habitats for the endangered species. Tourism Growth: Government is targeting five million visitors, while the Stanbic Music Festival featuring Jason Derulo showcased how major events can bring business to hotels, restaurants and transport operators. Travel Safety: Ghana has warned job seekers to verify offers before travelling to Zambia after six Ghanaians were arrested in a Lusaka cybercrime operation; its ministry says some recruits were allegedly coerced into scams. Regional Health Alert: Kenya has introduced enhanced Ebola screening at Nairobi airport for arrivals from Zambia and nine other countries. Outbound Travel: Zambian passport holders are among citizens of 46 African countries eligible for visa-free stays of up to 30 days in the Philippines, subject to passport and onward-ticket requirements.

Tourism & Culture: The Zambezi region in Namibia has been picked to host Miss Namibia 2027, with the event framed as a gateway for visitors from Zambia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Angola. Safety for Travellers: Zambia is in the spotlight after Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry warned Ghanaians about fraudulent job offers that allegedly lead to coercion and forced cybercrime, following the arrest of six Ghanaians in Lusaka during a joint security operation. Wildlife & Conservation: Zambia-linked research highlights how endangered African wild dogs can still travel long distances between populations, with three males covering about 2,563 miles through Zambia over nine months. Local Tourism Watch: Kapiri Mposhi Council chairperson visited Mushimbili Mountains amid a growing gold rush, urging residents to keep activities lawful and safe as people keep travelling to the area. Travel Planning Tip: With El Niño expected to intensify drought and heavy rainfall, travel conditions this winter could swing fast—so travellers are being urged to plan around changing weather.

Travel Safety Alert: Zambia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has warned Ghanaians about fraudulent job offers after six Ghanaians were arrested in Lusaka during a joint cybercrime operation (79 people total). Reports say recruits were lured with “legitimate” online data-entry work, then allegedly forced into scams after employers confiscated passports—urging travellers to verify agencies and employers before travel. Visa-Free Travel: The Philippines expanded visa-free entry for up to 30 days to citizens of 46 African countries, including Zambia, but excludes Nigeria and several others; travellers must have a passport valid for at least six months and an onward/return ticket. Tourism & Hospitality: A call for boarding houses to meet regulations is making the rounds, as overcrowding and poor sanitation in student accommodation remain a concern in towns like Kitwe and Lusaka. Power & Growth: Zambia is set to attract US$250m for power generation and transmission, as Mercuria and Exergy sign financing to support projects tied to the country’s electricity expansion goals. Sports Tourism: Zambia’s Copper Queens and Copper Princesses are on the move—Copper Queens head to Kampala for Olympic qualifiers vs Uganda, while the U-17 women’s team travels to Morocco for World Cup preparations.

Lobito Corridor & AfCFTA: President Hakainde Hichilema says the Lobito Corridor is a key building block for regional trade and the African Continental Free Trade Area, urging Zambia, Angola and the DRC to push joint ventures and better road/rail links. Culture & Tourism: Government reaffirmed the value of traditional ceremonies like Mutuna Mpanga and Lukwakwa as platforms for heritage, unity and community development, with support for projects in chiefdoms. Tourism Growth Push: Vice President Mutale Nalumango says Zambia targets five million tourists, with culture-led tourism and stronger public-private partnerships to drive inclusive growth. Visa & Travel Planning: The US introduced refundable visa bonds up to $20,000 for B1/B2 applicants from 50 countries; separate lists also show e-visa access for Indian passport holders in 66 countries. Sports Tourism: Zambia’s Copper Queens and Copper Princesses are in motion—Queens head to Kampala for Olympic qualifiers vs Uganda, while the U-17 women’s team travels to Morocco for World Cup preparations. Community & Travel Safety: A report says UNZA graduate Memory Mumbi is homeless and sleeping at Lusaka’s Intercity bus terminus, while another story flags vandalism that torched Malawi’s Kuti Wildlife Reserve—both affecting visitor confidence and local livelihoods.

Women’s Football & Sports Tourism: Zambia’s Copper Queens have landed in Kampala for the 8 October first leg of the 2028 Olympic qualifier against Uganda, with captain Barbra Banda and four other foreign-based players joining interim coach Charles Haalubono’s camp; after Thursday’s match, the team heads to Ndola for the return leg. Youth Football: The Copper Princesses (Zambia U-17 women) arrived in Morocco for a 10-day build-up to the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, starting with a friendly vs China on 9 October. Grow Zambia Agenda: President Hichilema urged Zambians to turn the Grow Zambia agenda into a production drive, calling for more output in agriculture, mining, tourism and energy. Culture & Travel: Hichilema also reaffirmed support for traditional ceremonies like Lukwakwa as a way to preserve heritage and strengthen unity—good news for cultural tourism. Tourism Safety & Accountability: Malawi’s Kuti Wildlife Reserve in Salima was reportedly torched by villagers, reigniting calls for stronger protection of tourism assets. US Travel Rules: The US introduced visa bonds up to $20,000 for B1/B2 visas for citizens of 50 countries—India is not on the list.

Olympic Football Focus: Zambia’s Copper Queens have flown to Kampala for the first leg of the 2028 Olympic qualifiers against Uganda, with interim coach Charles Haalubono pushing a “redemption mission” after a tough WAFCON run. Youth Travel & Training: Zambia’s Under-17 Women’s team has departed for Morocco for a pre-World Cup training camp, with friendlies lined up ahead of the Oct 17–Nov 7 tournament. Tourism Safety Warning: Malawi’s Kuti Wildlife Reserve in Salima was torched to the ground just after World Tourism Day/National Tourism Month, highlighting how quickly tourism infrastructure can be destroyed. Culture & Heritage: President Hichilema reiterated government support for traditional ceremonies like Lukwakwa, saying they strengthen identity, unity and community development. US Visa Rules for Travellers: The US has introduced visa bonds up to $20,000 for citizens of 50 countries applying for B1/B2 visas—India is not on the list. Zambia Tourism Push: Government reaffirmed a target of five million tourists, with culture and tourism positioned as key drivers of inclusive growth. Local Market Update: UPND backs Lusaka City Council’s plan to relocate street vendors from undesignated trading areas, citing enough market space to absorb them.

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.