Mpunga Intelligent Media

Government has renewed its commitment to supporting agriculture, trade and investment in Southern Province.

Speaking at the official opening of the 2026 Southern Province Tourism, Agriculture and Commercial Show in Livingstone, Southern Province Permanent Secretary Dr. Namani Monze said agriculture remains key to economic growth and food security.

Dr. Monze said government has set up 32 mechanisation service centres across the province to help farmers increase production and reduce farming costs. He added that irrigation projects are also being expanded to support farming throughout the year and help farmers cope with climate change.

He said government is working towards meeting President Hakainde Hichilema's targets for increased maize, soybean and wheat production by 2030.

Dr. Monze also said agricultural exports have improved through better inspection services at the Chirundu and Kazungula border posts and new pest diagnostic laboratories in Livingstone and Kazungula.

In the livestock sector, he said government has supplied anthrax and Foot and Mouth Disease vaccines to protect animals. He also noted that fish production has increased from about 25,000 tonnes in 2019 to 90,000 tonnes in 2025.

Meanwhile, Show President James Mwanza said the number of exhibitors and visitors has continued to grow, making the event an important platform for promoting trade, tourism and investment in Southern Province.

Folarin Balogun Cleared to Face Belgium as FIFA Suspends Ban

By Chiluba Chabi

In a major relief for the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT), star striker Folarin Balogun has been cleared to play in Monday’s crucial FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 clash against Belgium.

The decision comes after FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee suspended the one-match ban imposed on the 25-year-old forward following a straight red card in the USMNT’s 2-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina on July 1.
Balogun was sent off in the 64th minute of the Round of 32 encounter after Video Assistant Referee (VAR) reviewed a challenge in which he stepped on the ankle of Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic. The incident was classified as serious foul play, triggering an automatic suspension.

However, following an appeal by the United States Soccer Federation, FIFA has ruled in favour of the player’s eligibility.
“After careful review of the incident and submissions from the USSF, the Disciplinary Committee has decided to suspend the sanction. Balogun will therefore be available for the Round of 16 match,” FIFA stated.
Balogun, who has been instrumental in the American attack, welcomed the news with excitement.

“I’m grateful to God and to those who fought for this. We are here to make history in our own backyard, and I’m ready to give everything for the team and the fans,” he said.

The USMNT will now go into the high-stakes encounter in Seattle with their key striker available. Belgium, boasting a squad full of experienced campaigners, promises to be a tough test, but Balogun’s pace, clinical finishing, and link-up play with the likes of Christian Pulisic could prove decisive.

This development has lifted spirits among American supporters who have turned out in large numbers to back their team during the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Coach Gregg Berhalter is expected to name his strongest attacking lineup with Balogun leading the line.

🌹 Inna Lillahi wa Inna Ilayhi Raji'un 🌹

Iranians and the world mourn the passing of His Eminence Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution. May Allah grant him mercy and elevate his station among the righteous.

After months of delay due to the recent war, Iran has begun a historic multi-day state funeral for the late Leader. Millions of mourners are gathering in the streets of Tehran to pay their respects.

Funeral Details:

July 4–9, 2026: Major processions and ceremonies across Tehran, Qom, and other cities.
Lying in state and public prayers at the Grand Mosalla of Tehran.

Processions planned in holy cities, including Najaf and Karbala in Iraq.
Burial: Scheduled for July 9 at the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad, his hometown.

This is a time of great sorrow for the Iranian people and all who respected his decades of leadership. Let us pray for patience and strength for his family and the nation during this difficult period.
May Allah (SWT) unite us in faith and grant peace to his soul. 🤲