Zambia Election Tech & Governance: Zambia’s 13 August general election is being framed around economic recovery, governance reforms, and a reshaped parliamentary map, with voters focused on cost of living and jobs. Election Integrity & State Use: Amnesty’s briefing alleges “lawfare” and the repurposing of state institutions to favour the ruling UPND, while government warns of “engineered clashes” and illegal rallies meant to provoke police in Lusaka and the Copperbelt. Digital Misinformation: A political communication controversy involving claims about an election video and whether it was AI-generated has escalated, with the candidate’s explanation shifting again. Health Tech for TB: CIDRZ is bringing TB screening closer to communities by testing venue-based case finding (including alcohol-serving spots) to detect TB earlier and link people to treatment. Science & Astronomy: The SKA Observatory released a book on what scientists want to do with the Square Kilometre Array as both SKA-Mid and SKA-Low build out. Energy Access Question: A Zambia electricity-sector analysis argues recovery isn’t evenly felt, with mining driving much of the consumption rebound. Regional Trade & Minerals: SADC highlights responsible mining and ESG value chains for critical minerals, linking Zambia’s copper to the region’s industrialisation push. Infrastructure Update: The Nchelenge–Chienge Road upgrade is at 11% progress, aiming to move from gravel to bituminous standard. Youth Sentiment: A 2026 African Youth Survey shows optimism rising overall, but with uneven country-by-country realities tied to economic pressure.