Zambia Roundup: Internet outage, CAF 2025 prospects, Zambia-Costa Rica relations

Zambians in DRC

Zambian Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe confirmed that all Zambians in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are safe and accounted for. The DRC has accused Rwanda of illegal occupation and attempting regime change, amid recent clashes where 16 soldiers from southern African nations were killed near Goma. DRC's Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner emphasised the need for accountability for Rwandan President Paul Kagame's actions violating international law as M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have taken control in eastern Congo.

Zambia-Costa Rica relations

Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves Robles has called for enhanced cooperation with Zambia to benefit both nations. This request was made during the accreditation of Zambia’s Ambassador to the U.S., Chibamba Kanyama, as Non-Resident Ambassador to Costa Rica. During the ceremony in San José, President Robles highlighted Zambia's investment potential and expressed eagerness to meet Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema at the Ocean Conference in June. Ambassador Kanyama emphasised the importance of bilateral engagements for economic growth and collaboration, Zambia Monitor reports.

Importation of pharmaceutical products

Zambia has invited Bangladesh to establish a pharmaceutical plant in the country and has expressed interest in importing pharmaceutical products from Bangladesh. According to The Business Standard, the invitation came during a meeting between Zambian High Commissioner Percy P Chanda and Bangladeshi Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain. The discussions included opportunities for Zambia to import jute products from Bangladesh and potential copper exports to Bangladesh. Both parties emphasised strengthening bilateral relations and explored future collaboration in agriculture and contract farming.

Internet outage

Airtel Zambia has resolved a temporary internet outage and disruption to the *117# service that affected parts of the country. Tech Africa News reports that the company apologised for the inconvenience and thanked customers for their patience during the downtime, confirming that services are now fully restored.

Zambia’s chances at CAF AFCON 2025

Chipolopolo captain Lubambo Musonda believes Zambia has a fair chance in the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 tournament, despite being in a challenging Group A with hosts Morocco, Mali, and Comoros. The tournament will take place in Morocco from December 25, 2025, to January 18, 2026, and Zambia's campaign kicks off against Mali on December 22. Musonda noted the importance of preparation, aiming for improvement after last year's early exit in the group stage. This will be his fourth AFCON appearance, following previous youth competitions.