Zambia: Economy at the heart of the electoral battle [Africanews Today]

Three days before Zambia’s presidential election, the campaign is entering its decisive phase. Incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema is defending his economic record against his main rival, Brian Mundubile, as the cost of living emerges as voters’ top concern.

In Kinshasa, skateboarding is moving out of the margins and gaining ground. For three days, the second edition of the To Skate Festival brought together young enthusiasts and fans of the sport, which is still relatively under-recognized in the DRC. The initiative combines sport, urban art and knowledge-sharing between generations.

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, a boat held near Kinshasa over fears of Ebola has finally been released. No cases were detected on board, but the incident is prompting authorities to strengthen controls on boats upstream of the capital to prevent the spread of the virus.

The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco has reached the semi-final stage. Four teams remain in contention for the title: hosts Morocco, Algeria, Cameroon and Malawi. The semi-finals are expected to be fiercely contested ahead of the final.

AGENDA

In Zambia, voters will head to the polls on August 13 for general elections. Fourteen candidates are running for president, including incumbent Hakainde Hichilema and opposition candidate Brian Mundubile, with the cost of living a major concern.

The African Feminist Forum 2026 has opened registration. Feminists from across the continent and the diaspora are invited to gather in Windhoek, Namibia, from August 10 to 12 for three days of discussions and reflection on strategies to advance justice and women’s rights.

The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations 2026 in Morocco is entering its final stretch. This week, the four remaining title contenders will battle for a place in the final. The tournament will conclude on August 16 at the Moulay Hassan Stadium in Rabat, where a new African champion will be crowned.

From August 11 to 15, Tunisia will host the Carthage International Festival. For this new edition, the ancient city will be transformed into a major cultural stage, with a programme featuring music, performances and artists from Tunisia and beyond. It is one of the highlights of Tunisia’s summer cultural calendar.