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The Zambian government has reaffirmed its commitment to uphold peace, rule of law and democratic processes as it engages the African Diplomatic Corps ahead of the August 2026 General Elections.
Acting Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister, Princess Kasune, hosted the 2026 Special Ministerial Briefing for the African Diplomatic Corps in Lusaka on Thursday.
The briefing was intended to update envoys on the electoral process and to strengthen relations between Zambia and African missions accredited to the country.
Kasune said the engagement provided a valuable opportunity to brief diplomats on electoral preparations and to reaffirm government’s commitment to the African Diplomatic Corps.
She acknowledged the role envoys played in fostering bilateral and multilateral relations between Zambia and their respective countries.
Kasune said Zambia remained steadfast in its commitment to peaceful and democratic transitions of power since the restoration of multiparty democracy in 1991.
“Through our engagements both at bilateral and multilateral levels, we reaffirm our belief in the importance of diplomacy and dialogue as tools for resolving disputes and advancing shared global priorities,” she said.
She noted that Zambia’s foreign policy continued to emphasize economic diplomacy, with a focus on diversifying the economy and attracting investment.
Kasune said elections remained cardinal to democratic processes that enabled economic development through partnerships with foreign actors.
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“In light of the recently approved 24-hour economy and the forthcoming General Elections, the Government of the Republic of Zambia wishes to assure you that there shall be business continuity before, during and after the elections,” she said.
On international observer missions, Kasune said Zambia welcomed all international election observer missions for the August polls.
She said Zambian observers had supported electoral processes in SADC member states and that Zambia remained committed to observing elections under the African Union and SADC frameworks.
Kasune stressed that peace and stability were essential for sustainable development and prosperity.
“As a nation, we recognise that peace and stability are important ingredients for sustainable development and prosperity. Zambia continues to play a positive role in fostering dialogue, peace, and cooperation in conflict zones across Africa and beyond,” she said.
Kasune added that Zambia’s neutral and peace-loving status had earned it a reputation as a reliable mediator and peacebuilder in regional and international conflicts.
On consular services, Kasune announced that the Ministry now hosted the Immigration Department every Tuesday and Thursday for issuance of permits.
“We have sincerely noted your concerns regarding appointments and wish to reassure the esteemed African diplomats that the issue is being addressed,” Kasune said.
She said the Ministry was striving to improve service standards in line with its Service Charter to meet the needs of the diplomatic community and reaffirmed that Zambia remained open to dialogue, partnership, and collaboration with all members of the African community.
Charity Charamba, Dean of the African Group of Ambassadors and High Commissioners, delivered the vote of thanks on behalf of the Africa Group, requesting that the government should give regular updates as the country prepared for the general elections.
The Zimbabwean Ambassador designated to Zambia said the group appreciated the briefing and the opportunity to share ideas with the Minister on deepening cooperation and relations.
“It is our sincere hope that time permitting, we have regular meetings of this nature wherein we are apprised of periodic updates on various issues of interest in Zambia,” Charamba said.
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