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The Bank of Zambia has noted that weakening economic growth, load shedding and tightening liquidity in Zambia are threatening financial stability in the market.
And the Central Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee has maintained the policy rate, a key determinant in lending rates, at 10.25 percent.
BoZ Governor Denny Kalyalya says the committee took into account projected inflation remaining above the upper bound of the 6.8 percent target range, tightened liquidity and reduced production owing to electricity challenges.
Dr. Kalyalya noted that increased food prices owing to droughts in the last farming season have also had a negative toll on inflation.
He says the above factors required the upward adjustment for the policy rate but the Central Bank had to hold it pending some measures by the Ministry of Finance.
Speaking during the MPC quarterly briefing in Lusaka today Dr. Kalyalya noted that global growth has equally weakened with demand for copper by China having reduced owing to decline in investment in emerging markets and reduction in global trade due to ongoing trade tensions between the USA and China among others.
And Bank of Zambia Deputy Governor Operations Francis Chipimo said access to finance has remained a challenge for private sector growth and investment.
Dr. Chipimo however said there are a lot of developmental issues being undertaken aimed at enabling the financial sector mobilize savings and lend money to investors with ideas.
HH and President Lungu meet at late Munkombwe’s burial in Choma
By Chimwemwe Mwanza
Vicious, vindictive and vengeful aptly describes the Zambian political arena. Former Presidents, Kenneth Kaunda, Rupiah Banda and the late Frederick Chiluba all have scars to prove this. In the 80’s, Kaunda locked up Chiluba on flimsy charges that failed to hold in a court of law. After he became Head of State, Chiluba retaliated by sending Kaunda to Mukobeko maximum prison.
The irony for Chiluba is that his handpicked successor, Levy Mwanawasa motivated Parliament to waive off the latter’s immunity thereby exposing Chiluba to several graft charges formulated by the now defunct Task Force on Corruption. With his legacy tainted by a skewed narrative, only death saved Chiluba from possible jail time. To erase his predecessor’s legacy and ensure his humiliation, the late Sata’s PF re-created this trend by consigning Rupiah to a life of court appearances.
Off significance to this conversation, UPND leader, Hakainde Hichilema (HH) served time in Lilayi prison on a laughable treason charge – this at the hands of the current PF regime. For a fact, HH has never hidden his disdain for President Edgar Lungu and his stint in a tiny Lilayi prison cell has probably served to reinforce the UPND leader’s contempt for the President.
Just why such vindictiveness and blatant abuse of power seems to gratify incumbents is hard to understand. In the absence of reason, one might well speculate that this show of brutality is all about a naked flexing of political muscle – a bit more like, ‘can I show you who is the boss’. Whatever the reason, the difficulty is that this trend erodes the very democratic tenets and political maturity that Zambia is renowned for in the rest of Africa and the world over.
Which makes 2021 an interesting contest. Other than bread and butter issues, the fore mentioned factors will weigh heavily on the minds of both President Lungu and HH heading closer to the polls.
Who is likely to win?
The tiny but seismic shift in fundamentals on the ground seem to suggest that this will be a closely fought contest. Besides, recent electoral predictions across the globe – even by the most experienced pundits have gone against the grain making it even more difficult to provide an accurate outcome.
For example, in 2012, several analysts predicted an outright victory for Rupiah’s MMD only for the PF to spring a surprise. Suffice to acknowledge that, while characteristics of the Zambian electoral landscape may differ in comparison to mature democracies, there are similarities to draw from – especially in elections where the voter’s desire for change outweighs any other considerations.
Unaware of a groundswell desire for change, an over-confident former British Premier, David Cameroon called a snap referendum to determine Britain’s future in the European Union (EU). He was stunned at the outcome. Against odds, the British electorate voted for Brexit thus paving the way for what has now become Britain’s messy divorce from the EU trade block.
Humiliated by a razor thin loss to Brexit supporters, Cameroon was forced to call his time as leader of the conservative party. In yet one of the biggest election upsets of the 21st century, Donald Trump steam-rolled establishment candidate, Hillary Clinton to become the 45th President of the US. Therefore, the notion that either the PF or UPND might have an edge over the other heading towards 2021 is fallacious. Truth is, this is an election that could swing either way.
Why ECL will be desperate to win
Despite the PF’s public show of confidence, their determined focus on HH and constant whip-lashing of his perceived tribal inclinations, best illustrates their genuine fears and by extention their desperation. Rightly so, they can’t afford to be complacent. 2021 will be a referendum on their ten years in power. Be rest assured that this is one election where the PF’s well – oiled propaganda machinery will likely throw both the sink and kitchen at the UPND bearing in mind what is at stake. In fact, the proposed amendment to the constitution is intended to disadvantage the opposition ahead of the polls.
What troubles the mind is that the current constitution which the PF is attempting to discard was signed into law by the sitting President amid a jam-packed Independence stadium. Three years later, it’s tempting to ask. What has changed to warrant an amendment to this sacred document? By now, PF knows too well that the much-punted humility of their candidate might be a hard-sale more so to an electorate that appears too desperate for change. They can’t afford lethargic arguments such as they being the only party with a manifesto. Need they be reminded that having a manifesto is one thing and delivering on its content is another.
What about the promise that they would lower taxes and put more money in the pockets of the working class? Did they deliver on such including creation of job opportunities? You be the judge. The President is aware that he will be facing an electorate that is weary of rising food costs. A persistent drought over the last two seasons has only compounded the hunger situation – more so in outlying areas of the country. In addition, the policy uncertainty in mining taxation and the stand – off between government and sections of the mining community is taking its toll on economic growth. Perceptions around inaction on corruption might not help his cause either. While some of these challenges might not be, the PF’s making, the electorate always tend to punish a sitting government for their suffering – sometimes unfairly so.
Never mind whether HH has genuine or has yet to formulate charges against the PF, he has consistently warned that the PF leadership will be called to account for wrong doing once he becomes President. The tacit implication of this threat is that, HH is already extending bed spaces at Chimbokaila, Kamwala Remand and possibly Lilayi prisons for use by the PF leadership. And knowing fully well what is at stake, a possible loss is too ghastly for the PF to contemplate. For President Lungu, there will be no better motivation to win the polls than lose to a sworn rival.
Its State House or bust for HH
PF has over-exposed the country to a mountain of debt that will outlive generations to come. It is precisely why the 2021 polls will boil down to the economy. As a businessman, HH knows too well the implications of our foreign debt on the fiscus. Zambia can’t afford to keep borrowing to fund consumption and expenditure on non-productive sectors of the economy.
This is the message he has been selling the grassroots. For a fact, he has the support of the broader investment community, including some global mining giants. Most important though, the International Monetary Fund appears to have factored in his possible victory in 2021 hence their reluctance to engage the current government on a possible economic rescue package.
The question is, has the UPND leader’s message of change found resonance with the electorate? While he appeals to the affluent and middle class in Parklands, Kansenshi and Kabulonga, the grassroots in Mandevu, kwa Nagoli and Chamboli seem to be struggling to grasp his vision for the country. Be reminded that he desperately needs this voting block to win the elections.
Against the backdrop of challenges, this looks like HH’s election to lose. Fact is, he can’t afford a record of 4 election loses on the trot. Such a scenario will certainly cast him into political wilderness and the glue that’s bound the UPND together over the years will finally loosen. Is this what he wants?
It’s entirely up to him and how he manages his campaign otherwise it might just well be that he will once again fall short of expectation and hand the PF another 5 years in power. And him being such a vexatious litigant, our Supreme and Constitutional courts will likely be kept busy. Watch this space.
The author is an avid reader of political history and philosophy. He loves Nshima with game meat. For feedback contact him on kwachaoneATgmailDOTcom
The South African High Court has reserved judgment in the case concerning the repatriation of the remains of Zambia’s late former President, Edgar Chagwa Lungu, after the parties jointly requested that proceedings be adjourned sine die.
The Latin term, meaning “without a day,” indicates that the matter has been suspended indefinitely, with no date set for resumption. Legal experts explain that this does not end the case but places it in limbo until one of the parties applies to revive it.
The development has fueled speculation that intensive background negotiations could pave the way for an out-of-court settlement, potentially breaking the deadlock that has prolonged the process since President Lungu’s death was announced months ago.
For many Zambians, the delay prolongs the uncertainity, denying citizens the opportunity to see their former head of state laid to rest with dignity on home soil. Zambia is accustomed to swift state funerals for national leaders, and the protracted legal and diplomatic wrangling has tested patience while raising questions about unity, closure, and respect for tradition.
Analysts say the adjournment reflects both the sensitivity of the matter and the willingness of the parties to seek common ground outside the courtroom. The dispute touches on delicate intersections of family wishes, state obligations, and diplomatic procedures.
Until a resolution is found, the body of the late president remains in Pretoria. The way forward now lies in either a negotiated compromise, the family’s withdrawal of the appeal, or a reactivation of the court process.
The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has set September 18th, 2025 as the date for the Chibulula Ward by election in Mpulungu Constituency.
Mpulungu District Electoral officer, Milton Sakala revealed that preparations for the forthcoming Chibulula by elections have commenced with different political parties showing interest in contesting in the election.
Speaking during the political liaison committee meeting yesterday, Mr Sakala explained that the committee meeting was held to remind party officials and aspiring candidates on what is expected of them during the election period.
The District Electoral Officer, said the committee meeting is important for the commission and parties taking part in the election to meet and have a common ground and draw up programs together.
“We are very happy as a commission that you have come to this meeting as it is from here that we will draw up programs and agree on what we are to do,” he said.
Mr Sakala revealed that the commission invited the political
Political parties who have shown interest in contesting in the forthcoming Chibulula ward by election.
And political parties that attended the meeting have thanked the commission for holding the political parties liaison committee meeting.
United Party for National Development (UPND) Constituency Vice Chairperson, Geoffrey Kasongole said the meeting is important as it reminds the parties of what is expected of them.
Mr Kasongole said the UPND is happy that the meeting has been done without any conflict or misunderstandings from the parties but with unity and understanding.
“We hope that the maturity that has been shown in this meeting is what will be experienced even during the election period, this is what we need,” Mr Kasongole noted.
He said as a party, they are assuring the commission that they will stick to the rules and regulations of the election period and will ensure to support peaceful elections.
And National Congress Party Constituency Chairperson, Beatrice Changala said the meeting has not only reminded the parties on the expectations but also clarified many issues.
Ms Changala noted that so far political parties now know that it is prohibited for the party not contesting the by elections to be found with their regalia during campaigns.
She said as the new political parties they will also ensure peaceful elections in Chibulula Ward.
Ms Changala thanked the commission for respect to all political parties and ensured to explain the process properly and clearly.
The Chibulula ward seat fell vacant after the death of Councilor Future Sikazwe on July 10, 2025.
President Hakainde Hichilema has sparked speculation about the possibility of early elections following remarks made at the funeral of former Cabinet Minister Hon. Ackson Sejani.
Late Sejani, may his soul rest in peace, was a prominent Zambian politician. He served as a Cabinet Minister under the Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD) government from 1991 to 2001 and was also a Member of Parliament for Mapatizya Constituency from 1991 until 2011.
The Honorable Sejani held various positions, including Minister of Local Government and Housing and Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Fisheries. He passed away on July 28, 2025, at the age of 67 at Netcare Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa, after an illness.
Speaking at the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, President Hichilema reflected on Zambia’s democratic evolution, drawing parallels to the landmark 1991 general election that ushered in multiparty democracy.
In his tribute, the president praised Sejani’s role in shaping Zambia’s political landscape, referencing the early elections of 1991 as a pivotal moment. He acknowledged Sejani, along with Peter Machungwa, Vernon Mwaanga, and William Harrington, who attended the service, for their contributions to democratic reform.
“Sejani contributed a lot to the development of this country… This country was a one-party state for many years, and many young people today have no understanding of what that meant,” Hichilema said. “Maybe that’s why the younger generation must read a little bit, so we can protect this democracy we have.”
Hichilema recounted that while elections were held in 1988, the next were expected in 1993. However, public dissatisfaction with the one-party system led to early elections in 1991. He also shared a personal story from his university days, describing the fear of expressing political views due to government informers, a reflection of the repressive climate that fueled calls for change.
Under Zambia’s Constitution, general elections are held every five years on the second Thursday of August. However, provisions allow for early elections if public demand is strong.
While the president stopped short of explicitly calling for early polls, his reference to 1991 has been interpreted by some observers as a subtle signal. The historical parallel, coupled with Zambia’s current political climate, has raised questions about the president’s intentions.
Last year, amid economic challenges and rising living costs, former president Edgar Chagwa Lungu, may his soul rest in peace, called for early elections, a call echoed by opposition groups, including the United Kwacha Alliance (UKA). With the former president’s passing, the opposition faces a leadership vacuum and limited time to regroup ahead of the scheduled 2026 elections.
Supporters of early elections cite the 1991 precedent as justification. Hichilema’s remarks may suggest a strategic interest in advancing the timeline, especially with the opposition in disarray and public pressure mounting.
Critics, however, warn that leveraging political advantage through early elections could undermine democratic principles. They argue that democracy thrives on fair competition, not tactical maneuvering.
Adding to the speculation, the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has announced that mass voter registration will begin on October 13, 2025, nearly a month earlier than the 2021 registration cycle. The timing has been interpreted by some as a possible precursor to early polls.
While early elections are not a dominant public demand, prior opposition calls could make such a move appear responsive to popular will. Hichilema’s remarks, coupled with the ECZ’s timeline, may signal more than tribute; they could be a political test balloon.
The National Assembly of Zambia has called on members of the public to utilise constituency offices as a channel to raise their concerns.
Second Deputy Speaker of National Assembly Moses Moyo observed that Constituency offices represent parliament at constituency level and serve as a platform for interaction between the public and members of parliament.
Mr Moyo was speaking after the tree planting exercise at Malole Constituency office in Mungwi in Northern Province.
Mr Moyo underscored the importance of the office in providing the office bearer input to be fed into the national strategic plan of the National Assembly.
“It is important that members of the public know that this office represents parliament at constituency level.It is an office that is non-political, it cuts across political divides so we encourage the public to visit this office to either air their concerns, or their grievances,” he said.
“This office provides an opportunity for the office bearers to be able to have their input so that it can be taken into the national strategic plan of the national assembly. Remember we derive our strategic plan from the input of the entire country so this includes Malole, we have resolved as an institution that our strategic plan should feed into the national development plan so they should run together,”Mr Moyo explained.
The Second Deputy Speaker who is also Luangeni constituency Member of Parliament reiterated the office’s commitment to addressing constituent issues even in the absence of the Member of Parliament.
“Sometimes the MP is quite busy and these people that are in the office always take note of the citizens’ concerns. Parliament has come up with other platforms other than the office to ensure that it’s more accessible,” he said.
“We have come up with a parliamentary Facebook page, website and soon or later we are rolling out a programme that will be accessible, there will be a land line that you can come and easily call your MP from Lusaka at no cost and right here at the Constituency office those that would want to do research work are welcome as long as they get permission because this place is connected to internet, “he said.
And Malole Member of Parliament Robert Kalimi who was represented by Kasama Central Member of Parliament Sibongile Mwamba, thanked the national assembly officials for visiting the constituency office to appreciate the needs of its operations.
“Mr speaker we are so grateful for visiting our office which was recently constructed and was opened by Madam speaker. The people of malole constituency are grateful that this is the first meeting that you had to come and listen to the challenges that are being faced by this particular office and any other parliamentary related challenges that we are facing as a constituency, “he said.
The second deputy speaker and other officials from the National Assembly are in Northern Province to tour all the constituency offices in order to appreciate their operations as well as their challenges.
Northern Province Minister Leonard Mbao has attributed the rise in maize production in the 2024/2025 farming season to sound policies of the government.
Mr Mbao said the Province has recorded a surge in maize production in the 2024/2025 farming season owing to President Hakainde Hichilema’s clarion call to increase crop production.
Mr Mbao who toured selected satellite depots to monitor the ongoing crop marketing season said farmers have heeded to the President’s call.
“We have monitored a number of depots in Mpulungu District and this year we have a bumper harvest, the maize farmers production this year is unprecedented,”Mr Mbao said.
He said the government is determined to ensure food security for its citizens and that the response from farmers is commendable.
“From all these stacks of maize which have been purchased and even those yet to be bought,we can surely predict enhanced food security, this commendable to our farmers and the government will continue to do its part to ensure that production continues to increase,” he added.
And Food Reserve Agency (FRA) Northern Province Marketing Coordinator Timothy Chanda has appealed to farmers camped at various depots to remain calm as the government will mop up all their produce.
Mr Chanda said there is no need for farmers to panic as the government will continue buying the maize.
“The rumours which you have heard that depots will close after reaching 10 000 bags of maize are not true,” Mr Chanda clarified.
“As FRA we will continue purchasing maize from farmers until October 31 and I’m sure by that time ,we will have managed to buy everything from the farmers,” he explained.
“I want to assure you that we are buying your produce because we want to secure enough for this country,” he added.
The country is currently implementing the maize marketing season and the Food Reserve Agency has continued to buy maize from farmers across the country.
Solwezi Caritas Director, Noel Haaninga said the call to retain a fixed percentage of mineral royalties to the local communities is no longer a request but a demand for justice.
Speaking during the opening of the North-Western Province Alternative Mining Indaba in Solwezi last week, Father Haaninga explained that the negative effects of mining activities are first felt by the local people before anyone else hence the need to cushion those effects.
“A fair mining revenue sharing mechanism is no longer a request, it is a demand for justice, a fixed percentage of mineral royalties must stay here in North-Western Province,” he said.
He said now is the time for all leaders to make things right in the province and the country as a whole because currently, the nation is not only exporting wealth but the ‘future’ as well.
Officiating at the same function, North-Western Province Permanent Secretary, Grandson Katambi, has called on FQM Kansanshi Mining Company to work on the Mushitala road that leads to their mining firm as it is in a deplorable state.
Colonel Katambi (Rtd) said the government appreciates what the mining firm is already doing in the community through its corporate social responsibility (CSR).
“The only thing that this government can do is negotiate and not direct, you can only direct if there is something that is legally binding but, in this case, we don’t have any documentation to use,” he said.
He hoped that going forward, things will be done in an orderly manner through drafting proper documents that will be an investment guide for all firms.
Meanwhile, ActionAid Country Director, Faides Tembatemba, said it is unacceptable that the people should continue begging for what is rightfully theirs.
Then Jesus said, “Let’s go off by ourselves to a quiet place and rest awhile.” He said this because there were so many people coming and going that Jesus and his apostles didn’t even have time to eat.
Mark 6:31, NLT
Living Balanced
Friend, you’re a three-part being—spiritual, physical, and emotional. You have to take care of each one. You can pray for twenty-four hours a day, but you’re not going to feel well physically. You can go to the gym and work out five hours a day, seven days a week, but if you’re not taking time for your spiritual and emotional side, you’re not going to be your best. You can’t stay up all night and not get proper sleep and expect to have the passion you need. You can’t drink twenty cups of coffee a day, eat junk food, and expect to feel well. Some people are discouraged, don’t have any energy, and they’re praying for a miracle. If Jesus showed up, He would say, “Get away and quiet yourself. Get some sleep. Start eating better. Take care of yourself.”
Living balanced is the key. You have to take care of all three parts. You will be your most productive, your most effective, when you’re balanced physically, spiritually, and emotionally. If you neglect one area, it will lessen what you could accomplish.
A Prayer for Today
“Father, thank You for giving me my body to live in and to care for as a temple of Your Spirit. Thank You for the example of how Jesus would get away and be refreshed when He was tired. Help me to be wise about taking care of myself and living balanced. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”
Copperbelt Permanent Secretary, Lawrence Mwanza has directed the halting of mining activities near Kafue bridge along the Chingola -Chililabombwe road to prevent contamination of the Kafue river, which supplies raw water to all water utility companies on the Copperbelt.
Speaking in Chingola when he checked on the mining point where debris consisting of heavy metals and other pollutants from illegal mining activities is on the verge of falling into the river, Mr Mwanza directed that all mining activities should be stopped immediately to prevent contamination of the river, which could result in fatalities.
Mr Mwanza stated that his office will look into the documents owned by the company carrying out mining activities to determine whether they can be revoked or relocate the mining activities far away from the river banks.
“We need to be proactive and prevent pollution instead of being reactive, so these activities must stop or move elsewhere away from the river, even if the company has documents allowing it to mine, it does not mean they should mine near the river and pollute it,” he said.
Mulonga Water and Sanitation Company Manager Environment Health and Safety, Sydney Spuni who accompanied the Permanent Secretary said the mining activities were hazardous as they can lead to contamination of the water any time.
” As a water utility our concern is that this may lead to pollution of the river which is our source of raw water, and it will disturb our operations,” he said.
Mr Spuni noted that the debris from the mining activities had accumulated heavy metals and other pollutants over the years and it can easily be washed into the river when the rains begin.
And Zambia Environmental Management Authority (ZAMA) Senior Inspector, Kayombo Ngimbu stated that the proximity of the mining activities to the river does not conform with the ZEMA regulations.Mr Ngimbu said the Authority cannot authorise mining activities that pose a danger to the environment.
Pollution of the Kafue River by mining companies has been on the rise of late on the Copperbelt thereby threatening the safety of drinking water as the river is the source of raw water for water utilities in the province.
The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has appointed veteran administrator Machacha Shepande as the new general secretary.
Shepande takes over from Reuben Kamanga who steps down on mutual terms after serving for two years.FAZ has also agreed to mutually separate with deputy general secretary John Msimuko.
FAZ president Keith Mweemba congratulated Shepande on his new appointment and wished him well.
“The Executive Committee of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) convened and deliberated on a wide range of issues, among them the appointment of the new general secretary. On behalf of my executive, I wish to announce that we have appointed Mr. Machacha Shepande as general secretary,” says Mweemba.
“Mr. Shepande needs no introduction in the game having previously served as general secretary at FAZ under the Evaristo Kasunga era. He has served the game in a period spanning over 30 years and will no doubt take secretariat to
the next level.”
Mweemba has thanked the outgoing general secretary and his deputy for their service to the game during their tenure.
“I wish to thank Mr. Reuben Kamanga and Mr. John Msimuko for the time served and wish them the best of luck in their next chapter. I advise them to keep their doors open and remain open to serving the game in other capacities,”he says.
Shepande also served as Head of Sport at the African Union Commission in Addis Ababa for over 10 years. He holds a BA in Education and a Masters in Sociology and Development Studies. He previously served as National Sports Council of Zambia general secretary.
For and on behalf of:
FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF ZAMBIA
Sydney Mungala
COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
ZESCO Spokesperson Matongo Maumbi says the entire Northwestern Province qualifies for a standard electricity connection of infrastructure at a rate of K300 through subsidized connections targeting 23,000 connections across the country.
Mr Maumbi says the government secured some funds to pay for the difference of over 4, 00 Kwacha that clients may be serving for connection.
Mr Mumbi was speaking at a media breakfast meeting in Solwezi. Mr Maumbi said there has been a challenge of connection fee hence the government came up with the initiative to increase access to Electricity for everyone.
He stressed that he is in the Province to sensitise the people on the subsidised electricity connection.Mr Maumbi clarified that the subsidised electricity connection runs from 2025 to 2027.
Zambia has formally concluded its two-year tenure in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Organ Troika on Politics, Defense and Security Cooperation, as Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe, represented President Hakainde Hichilema at a summit held in Antananarivo, Madagascar.
The summit, chaired by Tanzanian Vice President Dr. Philip Isdor Mpango on behalf of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, brought together regional leaders to assess political and security developments in Southern Africa.
Delivering Zambia’s closing statement, Mr Haimbe reaffirmed the country’s commitment to regional peace and stability, describing the handover as a reaffirmation of collective responsibility to uphold democracy, security, and cooperation within the bloc.
“Zambia assumed membership of the Organ Troika in August 2022 with humility and unwavering resolve, and worked tirelessly with Member states and SADC secretariat to advance the Organ’s mandate, focusing on conflict prevention ,mediation , the consolidation of democracy in the region , and security cooperation” Mr Haimbe said.
He said during Zambia’s term, the country played an active role in supporting peace and political transitions in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Mozambique, and Lesotho.
He highlighted Zambia’s continued concern over deteriorating security in eastern DRC, expressing full support for the ongoing deployment of the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC).
The minister noted that Zambia remained seized with the deteriorating security situation in the eastern DRC and fully supported the deployment of the SADC mission in the DRC(SAMIDRC).
He expressed gratitude to all member states that contributed troops, resources, and diplomatic support to this vital initiative , a demonstration of the region’s solidarity and capacity to respond to threats against peace and sovereignty .
The Minister further noted Zambia’s leadership in facilitating SADC Electoral Observation Missions across the region, which he described as critical to strengthening democratic architecture that fostered electoral credibility and transparency in the electoral process.
He commended the professionalism of the observers and the cooperation of host countries in upholding the values enshrined in the SADC principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections.
The minister also drew attention to evolving threats such as cybercrime, terrorism, and transnational organised crime.
He cited Zambia’s efforts to promote enhanced intelligence sharing, capacity building, and border security cooperation during its time as Organ Chair.
He further expressed gratitude to fellow SADC leaders for their support, and voiced confidence in the incoming leadership’s ability to maintain the region’s momentum toward peace, stability, and integration.
The SADC Organ Troika Summit is a key platform for coordinating regional responses to political and security challenges among member states.
Former First Ladies Thandiwe Banda and Christine Kaseba Sata
The nation united yesterday in solemn remembrance as a memorial service was held in honour of Zambia’s Third Republican President, Dr. Levy Patrick Mwanawasa, and his wife, Dr. Maureen Kakubo Mwanawasa.
President Hakainde Hichilema led the tribute, describing the couple as “distinguished and extraordinary citizens whose legacy continues to inspire a grateful nation and its people.”
Dr. Mwanawasa, who served as Head of State from 2001 until his passing in 2008, was remembered for his unwavering integrity, discipline, and profound sense of duty. His leadership was marked by sweeping economic reforms that steered Zambia out of crippling debt and revitalized critical sectors such as agriculture and mining. He also stood out as a staunch defender of the rule of law and earned respect as a relentless anti-corruption crusader.
The late First Lady, Dr. Maureen Mwanawasa, was praised for her tireless service to the nation. She devoted her life to uplifting vulnerable communities and advocating for the disadvantaged, both in Zambia and across the African continent.
“From their lives, we learn the strength of humility guided by conviction, and the impact of kindness driven by justice,” President Hichilema said, paying tribute to their enduring influence.
The memorial service underscored the couple’s lasting contribution to national development and social justice. Their memory, leaders and citizens alike noted, remains a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
I woke up at 3 hours facing a star-studded sky from under an open tent sleeping in my clothes surrounded by maize fields at a remote rural village farm. Dozens of other funeral goers were still sleeping. This was during a 3-day funeral wake and burial for my 84-year-old brother-in-law who had passed away a few days earlier after a long illness. This was near Muyayi in remote Chief Mwase Mpangwe in the Lundazi district in the Eastern Province of Zambia in Southern Africa.
My challenge that caused me anxiety is that I was supposed to be back in the capital city of Lusaka before sunset that day; a distance of 433 miles or 696kms or 10 hours of bus ride. If I missed my only bus ride, I risked losing my Service Apartment reservation and forfeiting my prepaid deposit. My 30-year-old nephew volunteered to drive me in his small car for 15 miles or 24Kms to the Lundazi-Chipata main road for me to catch the Lusaka bus at 4 hours.
The 51 miles or 82kms of this part of the paved road was horrible. There were rough giant potholes all over the road. I had travelled on it by bus since 2012. I ask each time I ride the bus to get a seat near the front of the bus from the capital city of Lusaka. Would I be able to get a seat near the front of the bus this time going back to the city?
When I heard the loud sound from the distance in the pitch darkness and saw the bus headlights emerging, I raised my bright small one double AA battery Redline torch to the rapid flickering emergency mode, high above my head to draw the attention of the driver. I made sure the bright flickering flashlight was pointing to the ground because I did not want to blind the bus driver. The bus stopped as I rushed to the door with my backpack and carry-on bag.
“How far, Sir!” the young conductor shouted as he swung the door open.
“Lusaka!!!”
“Hurry Get in!! Go to the very back where the only empty seats are!!!” The Conductor tossed my bag in the bus undercarriage and slammed it shut. The bus moved on.
“Sir! Can I get a seat near the front?” I asked the conductor again. “I get sick if I sit in the back!!!”
“Unfortunately, sir,” he replied. “There is nothing up front. You have to go to the back!!!”\
I knew then I was in deep trouble or even danger. I awkwardly sat down on seat number 27 as the bus swung and bounced my stomach around for one minute. I quickly pulled from my 65 years of rural travel experience from 1960 when I was 6 years old and rode on the Central African Bus Services (CARS) when Zambia was Northern Rhodesia during British Colonialism. I travelled on some of the roughest early dirt or gravel roads. I am now 70 years old.
First, I had to stand with my feet spread three feet or one meter apart in the isle. I leaned the small of my back and tailbone against one of the seats. The bus was wildly swinging side to side of the road and bounced up and down and suddenly braking avoiding deep lethal potholes. I remembered a page from the professional downhill snow skiers, including the famous Lindsey Vaun who often go at speeds of 60 miles or 96 Kms per hour skiing on their two legs. When downhill skiers fly at that speed, they use the tendons around their knees as hydraulic springs with shock absorbers. I lowered my upper body by about half a foot or a third of a meter and slightly bent my knees. My knees and tendons were now shock absorbers for my bouncing body.
I actively used my hands to hold on to the head seat rests in front and behind me. As I bobbed my head up and down, swung back and forth and sideways, I felt like the famous boxer Smokin Joe Frazer trying to avoid the barrage of swift dazzling boxing jabs from the Greatest boxer, Mohammed Ali.
The sick looking passenger in the next seat had his head hanging out of the window as he was vomiting. The six passengers being tossed around at the very back of the bus were having it the roughest. The sudden numerous movements in virtually all directions would require expert explanations from the eminent Astrophysicist Neil de Grasse Tyson. My memories of kinetic, potential energy, and Newtonian Physics from my Grade 12 or Form V Physics class from 54 years ago in 1971 Chizongwe Secondary School, would not do enough justice to understand all the numerous physical traumatic movements and challenges I was experiencing all at once.
After two hours or 51 miles or 82 Kms after Mgubudu Stores, the bus suddenly was quiet and smooth riding. This silence was probably what Astronauts feel once the rocket breaks through the gravity barrier and becomes weightless.
I sat down with a huge sigh of relief. The rest of the bus ride for the next 382miles or 614kms or 8 hours was very smooth all the way to the capital city of Lusaka. The Zambian government needs to repave those 51 miles or 82kms part of the Chipata-Lundazi road which has been horrible since 2012 or during the last 13 years. Warning: Readers are strongly advised not to try to risk travelling like this if you are over 70 years old as it could be dangerous and perhaps even deadly
For obvious reasons, it has become a ritual for us to get ourselves a copy of our favorite tabloid, News Diggers and keep ourselves abreast with news and current affairs before we start our day.
Recently, we were rather flabbergasted to be greeted by the following screaming headline in the newspaper; “Dolika set to challenge HH!”
As it definitely wasn’t April Fool’s day, we took it upon ourselves to switch to social media for further confirmation. The story was indeed trending on several platforms.
Was this some kind of a joke? Who the heck is this Dolika Banda? We don’t know her in Chibolya! Her name doesn’t ring a bell for those in Chipulukusu….. And she’s definitely a stranger to those in Kashinakazhi! Ever imbued with the curiosity of the cat, we reached out to our mothers and grand mothers plying their trade in places such as Kamulomo, Kabuchende and Chisokone markets…..they don’t know her!
What’s motivating Ruphia Banda’s niece to take this route apart from perhaps name recognition, one is tempted to ask.
It appears Dolika has an impressive CV according to what we’ve gathered so far: she sat on the board of Standard Chartered Bank where she obviously got to enjoy copius amounts of tea and countless cookies; she served as non executive director at CDC, she had a stint at African Risk Capacity Insurance as CEO and of course held senior positions at Barclays Bank and Citibank, among others.
But wait a minute…..are these sufficient credentials to impregnate someone with a desire to gun for State House? This is where we get it wrong as Africans.
Barak Obama went on to emerge as one of the best US Presidents, not because he came along with an array of qualifications from the Ivy league or indeed a stint at Wall Street. He had an impeccable track record to his name as a community mobiliser – fighting tooth and nail for decent housing and social services for marginalised folks in the slam areas of Chicago, Illinois!
Think again ba Dolika before those people wrongly advising you chew your money. Do you have a heart for the people? Have you ever done community work? How many orphans and vulnerable children have you rescued from their quagmire?
Until next time….
Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst
Zambezi.
Zambians remain upbeat about their financial prospects despite economic pressures, according to TransUnion’s latest Consumer Pulse Study. The Q2 2025 survey found 79% of respondents optimistic about household finances over the next year, with 34% reporting higher incomes in the past three months and 38% accelerating debt repayments.
However, inflation (79%), housing costs (59%) and job security (58%) were top concerns, prompting many to cut discretionary spending and cancel non-essential services. About 35% anticipate difficulty paying bills or loans in full, with nearly half of them planning partial payments.
Credit remains a priority, with 94% viewing it as key to financial goals, though high borrowing costs and rising interest rates are deterring applications.
Fraud risk is another challenge: 76% reported being targeted by scams in recent months, though most avoided losses. Cybersecurity fears, identity theft, and payment card fraud remain top threats.
TransUnion Zambia CEO Mildred Stephenson said the findings highlight “remarkable resilience” among consumers, who are balancing optimism with prudent financial management in the face of economic headwinds.
