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Zambia’s financial stability under threat

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Zambia’s financial stability under threat
Dr Denny Kalyalya

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.

Why 2021 is critical for ECL and HH

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Why 2021 is critical for ECL and HH
HH and President Lungu meet at late Munkombwe’s burial in Choma
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 Spectator Role of Parents: Encouraging Divorce in Society

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The Spectator Role of Parents: Encouraging Divorce in Society

Is it possible that parental influence in safeguarding the matrimonial function of society is overrated? Here are my thoughts from experience and observations in society

Divorce rates continue to rise in contemporary society, with various factors contributing to the dissolution of marriages. Among these factors, the role of parents as spectators, knowingly or unknowingly, encouraging divorce cannot be overlooked. In today’s world, parental influence on marital decisions and values is significant, often shaping the perceptions and behaviors of their adult children. However, instead of fostering stability and commitment, some parents inadvertently contribute to the breakdown of marriages by promoting a culture of divorce.

One of the primary reasons for the parental encouragement of divorce stems from a lack of respect for traditional marital values. In many societies, the sanctity of marriage and the commitment to staying together through thick and thin have been eroded over time. Parents, who themselves may have experienced failed marriages or have been influenced by societal norms, may subconsciously convey the message that divorce is an acceptable solution to marital problems. Consequently, their adult children may internalize this belief and opt for divorce rather than working through difficulties in their relationships.

Moreover, the prevalence of promiscuity in modern society further exacerbates the issue. As societal norms regarding premarital relationships and extramarital affairs have shifted, parents may inadvertently endorse a more casual approach to relationships, including marriage. By failing to emphasize the importance of commitment and fidelity, parents contribute to a culture where divorce is seen as a viable option when the initial spark of romance fades or challenges arise in the relationship.

Additionally, moral degradation plays a significant role in shaping parental attitudes towards divorce. With changing societal values and the blurring of lines between right and wrong, some parents may struggle to provide their children with a moral compass regarding marriage and relationships. As a result, the concept of marital vows ’till death do us part’ may hold little significance for couples facing difficulties in their marriages. Instead, parents may rationalize divorce as a means to pursue personal happiness, regardless of the impact on family dynamics or long-term consequences.

Furthermore, the dynamics of modern family structures contribute to parental encouragement of divorce. In families where divorce is commonplace or where parents themselves have experienced multiple divorces, children may grow up with a skewed perception of marriage as an impermanent institution. Consequently, when faced with marital challenges of their own, adult children may turn to divorce as a familiar and acceptable solution, mirroring the behavior they observed in their parents.

Addressing the issue of parental encouragement of divorce requires a multifaceted approach. Firstly, there is a need for greater emphasis on the importance of marital values and commitment within families and communities. Parents must lead by example, demonstrating resilience and perseverance in their own marriages, even in the face of challenges. By instilling a strong foundation of mutual respect, communication, and compromise, parents can empower their children to navigate difficulties in their relationships without resorting to divorce.

Additionally, education and awareness programs aimed at both parents and young adults can help dispel myths surrounding divorce and promote healthier attitudes towards marriage. By providing resources and support for couples facing challenges in their relationships, society can work towards reducing the prevalence of divorce and fostering stronger, more resilient families.

In conclusion, the spectator role of parents in encouraging divorce in society is a complex issue influenced by various factors, including shifting societal norms, moral degradation, and family dynamics. By recognizing the impact of parental attitudes and behaviors on marital decisions, we can work towards promoting a culture of commitment, resilience, and mutual respect within marriages, ultimately strengthening the fabric of society.

By Chaliafya katungula
Advocate general

President Hichilema Commemorates Labour Day in Solwezi, North Western Province

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President Hichilema Commemorates Labour Day in Solwezi, North Western Province
Solwezi labor day celebrations
President Hichilema arrives in solwezi for the labour day celebrations

President Hakainde Hichilema has arrived in Solwezi, North Western Province, to mark this year’s national Labour Day celebrations. The event, held under the theme “Building Resilience: Workers at the Heart of Zambia’s Economic Recovery,” highlights the critical role of workers in the nation’s journey towards economic revitalization.

Labour Day serves as a poignant reminder of the invaluable contributions made by workers across various sectors, driving Zambia’s economic engine forward.

“Happy Labour Day to you, all our hard-working workers,” remarked President Hichilema, acknowledging the tireless efforts of individuals shaping the socio-economic landscape of the nation.

In his address to the nation, President Hichilema highlighted the significance of workers as the cornerstone of Zambia’s economic prosperity. He reiterated his administration’s unwavering dedication to implementing policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing labour rights, promoting job creation, and fostering inclusive growth.

“Ba Solwezi mabanga! Bukiji! Bukiji!” exclaimed President Hichilema, rallying support and camaraderie among the residents of Solwezi as they join the nation in celebrating Labour Day.

The commemoration in Solwezi serves as a platform for reflection, celebration, and renewal, as Zambia charts a path towards an inclusive and resilient economy.

Part of the crowd during labour day celebrations in Solwezi
The Presidenrtial motorcade in Solwezi
Solwezi residents welcome President Hichilema
Solwezi residents welcome President Hichilema

Bodies of four girls who drowned in a pit transported to Ndola

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Bodies of four girls who drowned in a pit transported to Ndola

The bodies of the four girls who drowned in an unused gravel pit in Kasama District have been transported to Ndola District for burial.The girls were members of the same family in the Kapoka area of Kasama District aged between 13 and 20 drowned in an old gravel pit filled with rainwater.

Northern Province Police Commanding Officer, Lucky Munkondya, said the quartet, were identified as Tricia Kabangoni, 13, Anna Chirwa, 13, Gertrude Kabangoni, 17, and Mapalo Chirwa 20.

Ms. Munkondya disclosed that the four met their fate on Friday 26th April, 2024 around 11:00 hours after failing to swim in a gravel pit filled with water which is located in the Kasama Airport area and a few metres from the victims residence.

Recovery operation by Zambia Police and Kasama Municipal Council Fire brigade for the bodies of the sisters who drowned

The uncle to the deceased, Eugene Chipanta, informed police that his four nieces left home at the material time for swimming at the dam and after being gone for a long time, he followed them, only to find their chitenge materials and foot wear on the sides of the pit. Acting on information from the victims’ uncle, Zambia Police Service officers based at the Kasama Airport rushed to the scene and quickly engaged the Kasama Municipal Council Fire Brigade who swiftly joined in the search.
All the four bodies were on Saturday 27th April, 2024 successfully retrieved and were deposited in the Kasama General Hospital Mortuary.

The girls are expected to be buried in Ndola .

Speaking during the send-off church service in honour of the four girls at the Evangelical Church of Zambia (ECZ) in Kasama today, Northern Province Education Officer Mulambwa Nawa described the deaths of the girls as a great loss to the family and the nation.

Mr Nawa said the Ministry of Education is saddened by the deaths of the girls, who were all pupils at different schools.
He stated that losing four members of the same family at the same time and in such a situation is devastating to the family.

Mr Nawa encouraged the family to be strong and remain united during this difficult time.
He said it was difficult to understand what happened and encouraged the family to leave everything in the hands of God.
Meanwhile, Kasama Mayor Theresa Kolala who attended the farewell service, said it is sad that lives have been lost at such a tender age.

She said this is not easy for the family and has called on God’s strength.
Mrs Kolala also thanked the Government through the Ministry of Local Government for allowing her to mourn with the family until they are buried in Ndola.

Hundreds of mourners from different sections, including pupils and teachers from different schools in Kasama District turned up to pay their last respects to the departed girls.

1.3 Million Households On Social Cash Transfer

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1.3 Million Households On Social Cash Transfer

Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Permanent Secretary Angela Kawandami says Government has prioritised social protection in its development agenda and has so far scored great strides in improving the lives of many beneficiaries in the country.

Ms Kawandami added that the programme has scaled-up to over 1.3 million households with the cash transfer payments, thereby uplifting beneficiaries out of poverty.

She was speaking in a speech read for her by MCDSS Director of Social Welfare Nelson Nyangu during the engagement meeting in Lusaka with the delegation from Malawi who are undertaking a study visit on social protection.

Ms Kawandami said for this reason, the delegation from Malawi is in the country to learn how the social protection initiative is being rolled out in Zambia.

“We are glad that the delegation from Malawi is here for a study visit with a focus on the Girls’ Education and Women Empowerment Livelihood (GEWEL) project and other social protection programmes,” she said.

Ms Kawandami also mentioned that over 139,000 women have so far received support for improved livelihoods under the Supporting Women’s Livelihoods (SWL) compared to the target of 129,400 since inception of the project in 2016.

She stated that digital payments have also been rolled out to all the 116 districts of Zambia to ensure efficient and secure payment cash transfers to beneficiary households.

Ms Kawandami indicated that under the keeping girls in school component, the government has supported over 95,000 poor and vulnerable girls to attend secondary school, far exceeding the project target of 80,000.

Meanwhile, Visiting Malawi Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Gender Community Development and social welfare Nertha Mgala said Malawi is eager to learn invaluable lessons from Zambia on how best to execute social cash transfer to vulnerable people.

She explained that Malawi, like many nations, face significant challenges related to poverty and vulnerability, and that the country is committed to reducing the hardships by implementing various social support programmes.The delegation is expected to undertake a trip to Siavonga as part of the activities lined up for them before they go back to Malawi.

Unity and Development at Forefront: President Hichilema Meets Muchinga Province Traditional Leaders

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Unity and Development at Forefront: President Hichilema Meets Muchinga Province Traditional Leaders

In a display of collaborative governance, President Hakainde Hichilema engaged in constructive dialogues with traditional leaders from Muchinga Province, emphasizing unity and development as core objectives for Zambia’s future.

The meetings, held in Chinsali and Nakonde District, saw the President alongside their Royal Highnesses, discussing pressing issues affecting the province and the nation at large. Chief among the concerns raised were the longstanding challenges of poor road networks and inadequate infrastructure plaguing Muchinga Province for over a decade.

Acknowledging the gravity of these issues, President Hichilema assured the traditional leaders of his administration’s commitment to addressing them. Emphasizing a departure from past failures, he pledged accountability for those responsible for misappropriation of public funds, urging cooperation from all stakeholders, including traditional leaders, in the fight against corruption.

“We will not dwell much in the past when it comes to delivering development,” stated President Hichilema, highlighting a forward-looking approach aimed at tangible progress and equitable development.

The President reaffirmed his dedication to working hand in hand with traditional leaders across the country to foster an environment conducive to growth and prosperity for all Zambians. He expressed gratitude to the Muchinga Province traditional leaders for their invaluable feedback and underscored the importance of collective efforts in nation-building.

“Zambia shall remain one, and no one will be allowed to divide us for political expediency,” asserted President Hichilema, reiterating the nation’s unity in diversity.

In Nakonde District, President Hichilema continued discussions with traditional leaders, emphasizing the significance of unity and collaboration in realizing Zambia’s developmental aspirations. He commended the leadership of Muchinga Province for their unwavering commitment to serving their communities and reiterated his administration’s dedication to fulfilling the needs of all Zambians.

President Hichilema’s engagements with traditional leaders reflect a commitment to inclusive governance and a shared vision for a prosperous Zambia.

Zambia National Farmers Union Concerned Over FRA’s Maize Pricing Strategy

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Zambia National Farmers Union Concerned Over FRA’s Maize Pricing Strategy

The Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) has expressed its concerns regarding the pricing strategy of the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) for maize, amid ongoing challenges posed by the El Niño-induced drought.

The ZNFU has acknowledged the early entry of the FRA into the crop market, providing farmers with an additional buyer for their produce. However, the Union has raised alarm over the pricing discrepancies between FRA and private buyers, citing potential market competitiveness issues.

According to ZNFU, private buyers are currently offering significantly higher prices for GMO-free maize compared to FRA’s offering of K330 per 50kg bag ($264 per tonne). Moreover, spot prices in neighboring countries for similar maize types range from US$300 to US$570 per tonne, further highlighting the disparity.

Elias M. Banda, Manager of Communication, Media, and Public Relations Services at ZNFU, stated, “As a Union, we feel that FRA has ‘missed a penalty’ on pricing and are unlikely to compete favorably in the market.”

The Union emphasizes the importance of pegging prices to import parity prices (IPP) to incentivize local farmers to sell their maize to FRA, thus preventing potential market destabilization.

Furthermore, concerns have been raised regarding a statement attributed to the Ministry of Agriculture, suggesting that all Farmer Input Support Program (FISP) beneficiaries who fail to supply maize to FRA will be blacklisted. With many farmers grappling with crop failures due to the drought, ZNFU questions the feasibility of such a directive and calls for its immediate rescindment.

Banda underscored, “The statement must be rescinded immediately because innocent farmers will be victimized yet the reasons for crop failure are known by everyone.”

Amidst the challenges posed by the drought, ZNFU appeals to the Ministry of Agriculture for a supportive stance towards farmers, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support mechanisms to ensure food security and sustainable agricultural practices in Zambia.

Below is the Full Press Statement

PRESS STATEMENT ON THE FRA MAIZE PRICE

THE Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) is pleased that the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has entered the crop market early, unlike most seasons in the past when moisture content caused them to enter the market late.This provides the farmers with an alternative buyer for their maize.

As a nation, everyone is aware that a national disaster was declared by President Hakainde Hichilema because of the drought caused by El Nino which affected most parts of the country. This has threatened Zambia’s food security.The FRA recently announced that they will be buying white Non GMO maize at K330 per 50kg ($264 per tonne). FRA has since invited farmers with white GMO-free maize to deliver this maize to their nearest FRA depot.

ZNFU is aware that private buyers in the districts are currently buying GMO-free maize above K350-K400 per 50 Kg bag. Further the spot price in neigbouring countries for non-GMO maize is in the range of US$ 300 to US$570 per tonne,compared to the $264 being offered by FRA.

As a Union therefore, we feel that that FRA has “missed a penalty” on pricing and are unlikely to compete favourably in the market.The 2023/2024 farming season is not a normal farming season in terms of production because it is lean. Farmers who have experienced shortages in their harvest will be seeking to recoup their losses by selling to the highest bidder. Hence
competition in commodity markets will be stiff as already evidenced by the prevailing producer prices At this point, our humble advice to FRA is that they should peg their price to the import parity price (IPP) to give local farmers an incentive to sell their maize to FRA and prevent possible “maize flight” to attractive markets.

ZNFU is aware that the nation needs this maize to replenish our national strategic food reserves hence there should be no room for risky pricing attempts in the hope of revising them later because the maize will not be there.

Further, farmers are concerned by a statement attributed to the Ministry of Agriculture stating that all FISP beneficiaries who wont supply maize to FRA will be blacklisted. This statement coming at a time when most of the farmers do not have any maize because of the drought. Where will farmers on FISP get the maize to supply FRA?

The statement must be rescinded immediately because innocent farmers will be victimized yet the reasons for crop failure are known by everyone. The Head of State declared the drought as a national disaster, a situation which requires all support
mechanisms to be triggered first to make sure no one starves including farmers faced with crop failure. Secondly to all farmers, whether on FISP or not need Government support to re-start so that they can still plant next season. Let us
remember that some FISP farmers may not even be able to raise their contribution towards FISP and non FISP farmers will take many seasons before recovering.There is nothing positive that will be achieved by this threatening statement apart
from victimisation of innocent farmers. We appeal to the Ministry of Agriculture to cease fire!

Issued by:

Elias M. Banda
Manager – Communication, Media and Public Relations Services
Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU)

INTERPOL Not Fit For Purpose :Structural Reform needed to Meet 21st Century Global Crime Challenges

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INTERPOL Not Fit For Purpose :Structural Reform needed to Meet 21st Century Global Crime Challenges

By Mubita Nawa

In a historic moment for INTERPOL, it is notable that each region now has a candidate vying for the position of Secretary General. After a century of leadership primarily from Europe, it is time for the organization to adopt a more inclusive approach, mirroring the leadership system of the United Nations. As Africa’s candidate for the next INTERPOL Secretary General, I believe it is imperative to address the pressing need for structural reform to better meet the challenges of 21st-century global crime.

The recent conclusion of INTERPOL’s 19th Heads of NCB meeting in Lyon, where all four candidates for the next INTERPOL Secretary General were in attendance, has brought critical issues to the forefront. While the meeting highlighted the importance of increased police information sharing and cooperation, it also underscored the urgent need to revamp INTERPOL’s structure to effectively address regional needs.

Expanding access to INTERPOL’s global police communications network, I-24/7, and sharing more criminal data through its databases are positive steps towards enhancing international cooperation in law enforcement. However, these efforts alone are insufficient to combat the multifaceted and evolving threats posed by transnational organized crime. It is time for INTERPOL to rethink its approach and incorporate a more regionally focused structure that integrates organizations like Europol, Afripol, Ameripol, and Aseanapol.

The current structure and decision-making processes of INTERPOL are outdated and fail to adequately address the diverse challenges faced by different regions. To truly combat transnational crime effectively, we must ask ourselves some fundamental questions: Is the world safer because of INTERPOL? Are the Americas, Africa, Asia, the Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe safer? If not, why?

As we move forward, it is crucial to prioritize structural reform within INTERPOL to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness in addressing global crime challenges. This includes decentralizing decision-making processes to give greater voice to regional concerns, enhancing transparency and accountability, and fostering closer collaboration with other international organizations and civil society actors.

The conclusion of 2024’s INTERPOL Heads of NCB meeting signifies a critical moment in the organization’s history. It is time for INTERPOL to embrace change and adapt to the rapidly changing landscape of global crime and security challenges.
As Africa’s candidate for INTERPOL Secretary General, I am committed to leading this transformation and ensuring that INTERPOL remains at the forefront of the fight against transnational crime.

The author is African candidate for the INTERPOL Secretary General

Kenneth Kaunda’s strange place in Zambian history

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Kenneth Kaunda’s strange place in Zambian history

By Michael Chishala

The year was 1982. The place was Jacaranda Primary School. The occasion was a normal day of learning in grade four in what was one of the good Primary Schools in Lusaka, the captital city of Zambia. We were in the middle of a lesson when we were interrupted by the teacher and asked to go to assembly where the whole school gathered. Next thing, we found ourselves walking down Omelo Mumba Road to get to Great East Road. We finally arrived at and then we waited. And waited…. And waited….

After what seemed like an eternity, there it was. The presidential convoy coming round a curve barelling down Great East Road, driving from the East of Lusaka going towards the Lusaka Central Business District. There was a black Mercedes Benz surrounded by vehicles and motor cycles with the window rolled down. We all rushed to the road side and gathered there. Then I saw him. Sitting at the back smiling as usual and waving his trademark white handkerchief. The moment seemed to freeze in time, even though it only lasted a few brief seconds.

We had just spent about two hours by the road-side waiting to welcome the great leader who had earlier landed at Lusaka International Airport as it was called back then. He had this habit of always being late for everthing. We were hungry and tired. There were no toilets, food or drinks and we had to go pee behind trees, both boys and girls.

As we walked back to School, about 1.3 km away, my young mind, not even yet a teen began to wonder what was the logic of dragging entire schools out of class just go stand by the side of the road and wave at the great leader as he passed by. Was this really the best use of our time? Did it not occur to the great leader that all this hero worship was unnecessary and just perpetuating a cult leadership?

Then I grew up, went to Secondary School and in that period, I witnessed first hand as the nation crumbled and rapidly deteriorated in every way, such that by 1986, the country had gone to the proverbial dogs. I would walk into the Shoprite and Game of the day, NIEC Stores, Mwaiseni Stores and ZNBC. Empty shelves greeted me. We had to queue up for hours to buy basic commodities like sugar, cooking oil and even tea. Things got so bad at one time I remember Zambians would get sugar and burn it on a tablespoon with a candle underneath until it turned black carbon and it would be used as “tea”. Other times there was not enough sugar and people would use salt instead to eat porridge.

1968 was a watershed year. The prices of mealie-meal had been increased suddenly by a not so small amount. Spontaneous riots broke out in the Copperbelt Province and there was chaos and mayhem. The military were sent in and stopped the riots after several days of looting and carnage. The administration of the great leader run out of ideas and things went from bad to worse every year as the nation teetered on the brink of total collapse with economic statistics comparable to war-torn countries. The great one survived and remained in power.

Then 1990 happened, and it was far more consequential to his presidency. I was sitting in class in grade twelve at Kabulonga Boys Secondary School during another lesson and looked out of the window only to see people running in Kabulonga Road carrying all sorts of things. Next thing, a huge mob of Munali Boys students who had walked all the way invaded our school and began going class to class telling everyone to leave. It soon became clear that rioting and looting had broken out again.

They came into our class in the middle of a lesson making noise telling us to leave and join the party. We looked at each other and the teacher and then one by one, we got up and left the lesson. We quickly made our way to what was Kabulonga Supermarket, meeting people running with everything from TVs to food and drinks. There was mayhem everywhere with all sorts of things strewn all along the way, including baby diapers.

We arrived at the junction between Kabulonga Road and Chindo/Bishops Road and my eyes were greeted by what I can best describe as ants going in and out of a nest. Hundreds of people had broken into the famous upmarket supermarket meant for the wealthy and privileged. This was their chance to become like them for once. People were going in and out, looting and taking everything they could carry.

Our Kabulonga Boys and Girls students had joined in the looting and before long, plenty of lagers, whiskeys and brandys made their way out and the boys proceeded to drink a toast to the downfall of the great leader. This went on for some time before a police van finally showed up. It was coming down from the West very slowly, so slow that it gave everyone plenty of time to smash, grab and run. The vehicle drove even more slowly into the car park and parked. One officer took out a big gun and fired into the air. We all knew it was for show because the paramilitary police were not in a hurry to arrest anyone. Everyone got away.

I then quickly made my way back to school and found empty bottles of every spirit known to man in the school bins and corridors. I saw plenty of inebriated boys enjoying every second of this rare occasion. I got on my sports bike and cycled through the streets of Lusaka. I went down Burma Road and found people looting what is today Interland Filing Station. This was right behind Arrakan Barracks and there were plenty of soldiers watching from the fence and doing absolutely nothing. The Police and every law enforcement agency just sat and watched.

I cycled past and went through Kabwata and Kamwala and found all the Indian shops had been looted. In those days, all shops had big open windows and people just smashed them and walked inside and grabbed whatever they could lay their hands on. It was carnage on a scale I had never seen. And that is why to this day, all of the small retail shops in the Lusaka CBD have big ugly metal things covering them. It was all because of that one day in the last week of June 1990.

The looting continued for a whole week, exacerbated by the fact that the great leader had sent most of the law enforcement to the Copperbelt, in anticipation of another round of looting since mealie meal prices had just gone up again by a large amount. This second iteration of looting in the capital city was on a much grander scale than the 1986 riots in the Copperbelt. Lusakans were commended by our Kopala cousins for not being docile as we usually used to be.

There was no school and the week ended with an attempted coup by Mwamba Luchembe who went and briefly took over the airwaves at ZNBC, announcing that the great leader had been overthrown. There was massive jubilations and celebrations in the streets. I rushed out to Chilimbulu Road and found hundreds of people in the streets celebrating. They were walking in the middle of the road and cars were busy honking everywhere. Almost everyone was glad to see the great leader kicked out of power.

But the celebrations were shortlived as Grey Zulu, the number two to Kaunda went on ZNBC TV and announed that the great one was still in power and that the rogue Luchembe had been arrested and his coup thwarted. I remember how people were upset and angry with Luchembe for not carrying out his coup successfully.

Then just over a year later on 31st October 1991, Zambians unanimously gave KK and his UNIP government the boot and elected a new government (with 74% of the vote) led by Frederick JT Chiluba, a former Trade Unionist who had opposed the great leader’s tyrannical rule and been locked up before, just like almost everyone who opposed the great one had found themselves in jail.

All my childhood and teenage memories of that era are full of scenes of grinding poverty, bad dirty stinking hospitals, roads full of potholes, empty supermarket shelves, brutal paramilitary police, fear of the dreaded Shushushu at the so-called “Red Brick” building (the intelligence services) and not forgetting the violent UNIP vigilantes, a precursor to the modern day cadres under the MMD and PF governments.

That is my memory of Kenneth David Buchizya Kaunda, a far cry from today’s unfortunate revisionist history that whitewashes all his sins and paints him as some sort of “great” Messiah. But that’s a story for another day.

The author is a Zambian analyst, blogger and IT Specialist with interests in Politics, Economics and Philosophy.

Report shows upsurge in family planing use globally amid decline in funding

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Report shows upsurge in family planing use globally amid decline in funding

There is growing demand for contraception and the population of women of reproductive age has increased by 20 percent globally since 2012, yet donor government financing for family planning programs is nosediving, a new global report has revealed.

New figures released by FP2030 in its annual measurement report 2023, shows that the number of women using modern contraception has grown by 92 million since 2012, against dwindling resources to meet the growing demand.

“An estimated 377 million women were using a modern method of contraception in 2023 in 85 countries against a total number of over 1 billion women in those countries. Their use of modern contraception averted 141 million unintended pregnancies, 30 million unsafe abortions, and 141,000 maternal deaths in 2023 alone,”reads the report.

The new report released Wednesday says while there is a growing demand for family planning services across the globe, while low and middle-income countries are severely impacted by a reduced amount of resources.While there has been significant achievements in family planning across the globe since 2012, the decline in funding should be a warning sign ahead that continued progress over the next several years is far from guaranteed.

“ Investing in family planning remains one of the best buys in global health. I want our world leaders to take pause and realize the potential we have in front of us if we meet this foundational human right of universal access to modern contraception.

With the deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals around the corner, this is a time to be energized, and to have enough optimism to meet this moment,” says Samukeliso Dube, Executive Director, FP2030.

FP2030 is a global partnership dedicated to promoting and expanding access to family planning services.Donor government funding stood at US$1.35 billion in 2022, representing a decline of US$129 million compared to 2021, again down almost 15 percent from 2019.

Geopolitical conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East are diverting development assistance and challenging global cooperation. Also, the global movement to deny sexual and reproductive rights, particularly to adolescents and lesbian, gay, bisexual,
transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people, has been bolstered by the US Supreme Court’s overturning of the right to abortion.

“The Report comes at a critical time in our movement. We’re at the intersection of several crises: Globally, 800 women are dying every day in childbirth. 218 million women in low- and middle- income countries have an unmet need for modern
contraception — meaning they want to avoid a pregnancy but are not using a modern method,” Dube says.

The stagnation in funding is especially problematic when it comes to donor-dependent methods like contraceptive implants, which have proven hugely popular in Africa. But they remain expensive for most users. They must be subsidized by the international community, if progress in family planning programs is to be sustained.

Consequences of low funding for family planning programs can be dire. The world could experience 141 million unintended pregnancies, 30 million unsafe abortions,and 141,000 maternal deaths in one year alone.

“Fewer resources of family planning push women to unintended pregnancies, child births, or unsafe abortion, leading to health consequences and push women,families, communities and countries into ill-health and poverty." reads the report.
FP2030 has implored donor governments, international donors and domestic governments to put aside, as a matter of urgency, huge and increased investments on family planning at global, regional, national and sub-national levels, with a particular focus on low-and-middle income countries.The global community should aim at achieving a collectively higher level of expenditure than is currently the case.We need to maintain implant access where it already exists and expand access to regions and demographic groups that have been left behind.” the report says.

Funding from six donor governments, namely Australia, Canada, Denmark,Germany, Sweden, and the United Kingdom (UK), decreased in 2022. Some of these declines were largely due to budgetary decisions associated with the humanitarian response to the conflict in Ukraine.

Two countries, the Netherlands and Norway, increased funding while the US remained flat. However, the US continued to be the largest donor to family planning in 2022, accounting for 43 percent (US$582.9 million) of total funding from governments, followed by The Netherlands (US$217.4 million, the UK (US$174.7 million, Sweden (US$121.3 million) and Canada (US$88.3 million).

Nearly 96 percent of family planning funding is provided bilaterally. The remaining four percent is in the form of multilateral contributions from core resources of the.United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Domestic governments spent an estimated US$1.68 billion on family planning in 2022. Domestic expenditures are defined as all government expenditures that support family planning, including commodity purchases, demand creation campaigns, investments in training and research, and service delivery.

“Our focus this year is postpartum family planning, a topic chosen specifically by the regional hubs. In 2023, there were more than 95 million births in low and lower-middle income countries, and 59 million births were unintended.”

Additionally, more than 80 percent of births to the youngest mothers, under the age of 20, occur in these countries.
Postpartum family planning is a high impact practice with demonstrated ability to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes and increase the uptake of contraception. Women in the first postpartum weeks have little risk of pregnancy, but this is a critical window for counseling on family planning.

The report is a measurement and compilation of family planning data across 85 countries: all 83 low and lower-middle income countries and presents more insights into contraceptive use, adolescent and youth sexual and reproductive health, and
finance trends than any previous FP2030 Measurement Report.

According to UNFPA, for every dollar invested in family planning, benefits to families and societies are estimated to be at least $8.78, altogether generating $660 billion in economic benefits by 2050.

The Guttmacher Institute has found that every additional dollar spent investing in family planning would save $3 in reproductive, maternal, and newborn healthcare costs, thus contributing to global health, gender equality and sustainable
development.

Report says Nestle adds sugar to products sold only in developing countries

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Report says Nestle adds sugar to products sold only in developing countries

A new report by the Swiss investigative organization Public Eye is taking aim at food giant Nestle. It says that several popular Nestle products sold in lower-income countries contain added sugar, often at high levels, and that the same products, when sold in Switzerland, contain no sugar. The Swiss food giant controls 20% of the baby-food market, valued at nearly US$70 billion.

Why has Nestlé been criticised?

Public Eye, a Swiss investigative organisation, sent samples of Nestlé baby-food products sold in Asia, Africa and Latin America to a Belgian laboratory for testing. The laboratory found in many cases that baby formula with no added sugar sold in Switzerland, Germany, France and the UK contained unhealthy levels of sugar when sold in countries such as the Philippines, South Africa and Thailand.

As the Public Eye investigation revealed, one example of this is Nestlé’s biscuit-flavoured cereals for babies aged six months and older: in Senegal and South Africa they contain 6g of added sugar. In Switzerland, where Nestlé is based, the same product has none.

In South Africa, Nestlé promotes its wheat cereal Cerelac as a source of 12 essential vitamins and minerals under the theme “little bodies need big support”. Yet all Cerelac products sold in this country contain high levels of added sugar.

Obesity is increasingly a problem in low- and middle-income countries. In Africa, the number of overweight children under five has increased by nearly 23% since 2000.

The World Health Organization has called for a ban on added sugar in products for babies and young children under three years of age.

Why is extra sugar particularly unhealthy for babies?

Adding sugar make the foods delicious and, some argue, addictive. The same goes for adding salt and fat to products.

Children shouldn’t eat any added sugar before they turn two. Studies show that adding sugar to any food for babies or small children predisposes them to having a sweet tooth. They start preferring sweet things, which is harmful in their diets throughout their lives.

Unnecessary sugar contributes to obesity, which has major health effects such as diabetes, high blood pressure and other cardiovascular diseases, cancer and joint problems among others.

The rate of overweight children in South Africa is 13%, twice the global average of 6.1%.

These extra sugars, fats and salt are harmful to our health throughout our lifetime, but especially to babies as they are still building their bodies.

Children eat relatively small amounts of food at this stage. To ensure healthy nutrition, the food they eat must be high in nutrients.

How do multinationals influence health policies?

Companies commonly influence public health through lobbying and party donations. This gives politicians and political parties an incentive to align decisions with commercial agendas.

Low- and middle-income countries often have to address potential trade-offs: potential economic growth from an expanding commercial base and potential harms from the same commercial forces.

Research into how South African food companies, particularly large transnationals, go about shaping public health policy in their favour found 107 examples of food industry practices designed to influence public health policy.

In many cases companies promise financial support in areas such as funding research. In 2023 a South African food security research centre attached to a university signed a memorandum of understanding with Nestlé signalling their intent to “forge a transformative partnership” to shape “the future of food and nutrition research and education” and transform “Africa’s food systems”.

What happens in high-income countries?

Most high-income countries have clear guidelines about baby foods. One example is the EU directive on processed cereal-based foods and baby foods for infants and young children.

Another is the Swiss Nutrition Policy, which sets out clear guidelines on healthy eating and advertising aimed at children.

The global food system is coming under scrutiny not just for health reasons but for the humane treatment of animals, genetically engineered foods, and social and environmental justice.

What should governments in developing countries be doing?

South Africa already has limits on salt content but need limits on added sugar and oil.

Taxing baby foods as they do sugary beverages is another way of discouraging these harmful additions.

We need to make sure that consumers are aware of what’s in their food by having large front-of-package warning labels. Take yogurt: many people assume it is healthy, but there is lots of added sugar in many brands.

Consumers should be calling for front-of-pack labels that the Department of Health has proposed so that parents can easily identify unhealthy foods.

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Drought-stricken Zambia turns to Uganda for 0.5m tonnes of maize

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Drought-stricken Zambia turns to Uganda for 0.5m tonnes of maize

Lusaka banned the exports of maize grain and flour in February, following a prolonged dry spell that has adversely impacted the production of the crop in 84 out of the country’s 116 districts

Zambia is in talks with Uganda for a possible supply of more than 500,000 metric tonnes of maize to replenish its depleted reserves that have exposed more than two million people to starvation.

Lusaka banned the exports of maize grain and mealie (maize flour) in February following a prolonged dry spell that has adversely impacted the production of the crop in 84 out of its 116 districts.

Uganda’s Ministry of Agriculture, Animal, Industry and Fisheries says through a correspondence seen by The EastAfrican that Kampala has received a request to supply up to 500,000 metric tonnes of the grain to Lusaka.

“The Government of Uganda has received an expression of interest for up to 500,000 MT of maize grain to be exported to Zambia. This has certain requirements including quality and available volumes to enable us to meet the export successfully,” the ministry’s Permanent Secretary David Kasura-Kyomukama says through a letter dated March 25, 2024.

“The purpose of this letter is to invite you to a stakeholders meeting to discuss the process and requirements for this opportunity.”
Zambia’s vulnerability assessment report (2023) projects over two million people to be food insecure spanning the period October 2023 to March 2024.

Zambia, the second largest maize producing nation in Southern Africa after South Africa, declared drought a national disaster in February and introduced a state of emergency.

This has put pressure on South Africa to supply its neighbouring countries with maize even when its own prospects do not look promising, according to the South African-based agricultural services firm AFGRI.

Last year Zambia turned down a proposal to supply maize grain to Kenya even as Kenya’s Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi hinted that a memorandum of understanding had been signed, contracting Zambian farmers to grow maize exclusively for the Kenyan market.

Historically, Kenya has sourced most of its imported maize from Tanzania, however, traders have had difficulty exporting the grain from Tanzania following the implementation of new export procedures by the Tanzanian Authorities.

As a result, Kenya traders started sourcing more of the grain from non-traditional sources such as Zambia and South Africa.

According to the US Department for Agriculture (USDA), Kenyan traders imported maize from Tanzania, Zambia, Uganda and South Africa in 2023 but imports from Tanzania declined as a result of the imposition of export restrictions by the Tanzania authorities.
Kenya’s maize imports from Tanzania contracted to 63 percent of the total maize imports in the 2022/2023 marketing year from 97 percent in 2021/2022 marketing year, while that from Zambia and South Africa increased to 13 percent and 10 percent from one percent and 0.38 percent respectively.

On the other hand imports from Zambia increased by more than eightfold to 88,050 tonnes from 10,728 tonnes, while imports from South Africa increased by 2,218.94 percent to 64,513 tonnes from 2,782 tonnes.

According to Zambia’s Food Security Cluster Joint Rapid Assessment Report (March 2024) drought has affected food availability in the country leading to significant shortages of key food commodities in the local market.

Smallholder farmers account for more than 90 percent of maize production in Zambia.

As a landlocked country, Zambia usually focuses on other Southern African countries for maize exports, with the government assuring traders of an open border policy that will give traders an opportunity to export maize into the region. However, in April 2023 the Zambian government announced that it would no longer allow maize exports in the MY 2023/24, following tight stock levels of below 500,000 MT, though the government said it was a temporary change in policy to ensure Zambia stays food secure.

According to USDA, Zambia’s prohibition of corn exports is mostly affecting the southern provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which depend heavily on Zambia for corn as a staple food.
In 2019, Zambia signed a memorandum of understanding with the DRC to provide annual maize exports. The agreement aimed to deter informal trade flows and promote formalized maize exports to the DRC.

Zambia’s production of maize for grain was projected at 3.26 million metric tonnes (Mt) in the 2022/2023 agricultural season representing a 23 percent increase from 2.65 million produced in the 2021/2022 agricultural season, but this output still remains low compared to the five-year average.

The Zambian economy has been facing significant macroeconomic challenges as reflected in low growth, high fiscal deficits, rising inflation and debt service obligations as well as low international reserves.

“Zambia is experiencing a serious humanitarian crisis resulting from climate change making weather patterns more extreme, with more frequent droughts, floods, and heat waves,” the report says.

“These disaster risks are affecting Zambia’s poorest communities, especially in rural areas who rely on rain-fed agriculture.”

Such extreme weather events are impacting the productivity of the agriculture sector which is driving deterioration in food and nutrition security with increasing severity and prevalence of food insecurity.

Currently, the country is facing prolonged dry spells and drought caused by El Niño affecting most of its districts.

Source:The East African

Dr.Chitalu Chilufya to run for PF Presidency

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Dr.Chitalu Chilufya to run for PF Presidency

Former Minister of Health Dr Chitalu Chilufya has announced his intention to run for PF Party President. “I intend to stand as a candidate for Party President at the Congress,” Dr.Chilufya said. He further refused to endorse Edgar Lungu as current pf president or the UKA Alliance.

Dr. Chitalu Chilufya was appointed as Minister of Health by the President Edgar Chagwa Lungu in September, 2016 a position he served up to 2020 before he then appointed for a brief period as Minister of Agriculture.

Previously he served as the Deputy Minister of Health between 2014 and 2016

Dr. Chitalu is a graduate of the University of Zambia, School of Medicine. Prior to joining politics, he worked at various levels of management in the health sector mostly in the rural areas of Zambia. He is currently the elected Member of Parliament for Mansa Central Constituency since 2013 in the Northern part of Zambia.

In February 2023 the Lusaka magistrate court freed Dr. Chitalu Chilufya and seven others in a case where they were accused of conspiracy to defraud the state in connection with the HoneyBee drugs supply case. The accused were alleged to have conspired to defraud the government out of over US$17 million.

The case had attracted significant attention in Zambia, with many closely following developments and waiting for the outcome. The other accused in the case included former Attorney General Likando Kalaluka, former Ministry of Health permanent secretary Caroline Kakulubelwa, and procurement officer Wilson Lungu. The case also involved Honeybee Pharmacy Limited directors Abdurrauf Motala, Zakir Motala, and Imran Lunat, as well as pharmacist Emmanuel Mubanga.

When the matter came up for a trial, the prosecution team made an application to discontinue the matter pursuant to section 88 of the Criminal Procedure Code. The court subsequently discharged all of the accused persons.

The decision to discontinue the case was significant, as it represented a victory for Dr. Chilufya and the others accused. The allegations against them were serious, and the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence was a real concern. The decision to withdraw the charges was welcomed by many, particularly those who have supported Dr. Chilufya.

President Hichilema Assures Muchinga Residents Of Development

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President Hichilema Assures Muchinga Residents Of Development

President Hakainde Hichilema has assured the people of Muchinga Province of increased development in the region.
The President said that despite Muchinga not being a stronghold for the ruling party, the new dawn administration will continue embarking on developmental projects in the area.

Speaking during a public meeting held at Mwaba Primary School grounds in Chinsali , President Hichilema stated that the New Dawn administration’s agenda is to deliver development in all parts of the country.

“Everyone will receive a fair share of development because we love you, the people of Muchinga and Zambia at large,” he stressed.

President Hichilema mentioned that through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), the Government will ensure the people of Chinsali receive the much-needed development, especially since it is the birthplace of the late first President Dr Kenneth Kaunda.

Meanwhile, Mafinga Member of Parliament Robert Chabinga commended President Hichilema for achieving a lot of successes within two years of being in office.

Mr Chabinga stated that President Hichilema’s debt restructuring achievement will help boost the economy of the country of which Muchinga Province will also be a beneficiary.

And Minister of Transport and Logistics Frank Tayali reaffirmed the Government’s commitment aimed at improving the transport sector through the construction of an airport in Chinsali district.

“Your President saw it prudent to bring an airport here so that you can reduce the long hours that you spend on the Great North Road,” said Mr Tayali.

During a recent visit to Kapasa Makasa University in Chinsali, President Hakainde Hichilema reiterated the importance of hard work as the key to overcoming challenges faced by individuals, families, and the nation as a whole. Addressing students, faculty, and staff, President Hichilema emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable access to education, describing it as the best investment and equalizer for society.

“In our quest to ensure equity, as government, we will ensure that education continues to be accessed freely because this is the best investment and best equalizer,” stated President Hichilema

Emphasizing the imperative of diligence and perseverance, President Hichilema reiterated, “Work, work, and more work are the only way forward and not tantameni. This is the time to work, and we call on every youth out there to continue working hard and putting in your best in everything you do.”

During the visit, students at Kapasa Makasa University expressed their need for improved social amenities to support their educational pursuits. In response, President Hichilema, accompanied by his wife and First Lady Mutinta Hichilema, pledged support from the Hichilema family, announcing the provision of a bus, ambulance, and industrial borehole for the university.

“While this will be implemented, we have also directed responsible government departments to provide more services to the institution and urged them to take advantage of CDF to address some of the issues posing as a challenge to students’ welfare,”

President Hichilema concluded his address by calling on all Zambians to join hands in tackling the nation’s challenges through collective effort and engagement. “This is the time for Zambia to work, and indeed, let’s all get involved and get it solved,” he declared, expressing his confidence in the nation’s ability to overcome obstacles through unity and collaboration.

President Hakainde Hichilema was in Chinsali district to grace the celebrations for the 100th birthday of the late Dr Kenneth Kaunda at Lubwa Mission.

Unicaf University in Zambia: Pioneers in the Future of Learning

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Unicaf University in Zambia: Pioneers in the Future of Learning

unicafNestled in the heart of Lusaka, Unicaf University, the leading online higher education provider in Africa, is proud to announce the launch of its newest campus, poised to redefine higher education in the region. With state-of-the-art facilities, a diverse array of programmes and an unwavering commitment to academic excellence, the new Unicaf University campus in Zambia is set to empower students to achieve their academic and professional aspirations like never before.

Campus Facilities

At Unicaf University we understand that a beneficial learning environment is essential for fostering academic success. Our carbon-neutral campus, situated on 2.5 acres of land, boasts ultra-modern learning facilities designed to support student learning and personal development. From spacious classrooms equipped with the latest technology to dedicated study areas and recreational spaces, we provide students with everything they need to excel in their studies.

Our library is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering an extensive collection of books, journals and digital resources to support research and learning across various disciplines. Additionally, our campus features state-of-the-art science and skills laboratories, providing students with hands-on experience in their chosen fields of study.

Affordable Education

We believe that quality education should be accessible to all. That’s why Unicaf University offers affordable tuition fees for Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral programmes. Our flexible payment options, including scholarships and instalment plans, ensure that financial constraints do not hinder students from pursuing their educational goals.

Whether you’re seeking to earn a Bachelor’s degree to kickstart your career, enhance your expertise with a Master’s programme or pursue advanced research with a Doctoral degree, Unicaf University offers competitive tuition fees without compromising on quality.

A glance at our monthly instalments table should give you an indication of the monthly costs of the programmes:

  • Bachelor’s Degrees        From only 3,830 ZMW
  • Master’s Degrees           From only 2,810 ZMW
  • Doctoral Degrees           From only 4,870 ZMW

New Programmes

Our commitment to innovation drives us to continuously expand our programme offerings to meet the evolving needs of students and industries. At our new Unicaf University campus, we’re thrilled to introduce an array of new programmes alongside our existing diverse offerings. These new programmes span various disciplines and are as follows:

  • Bachelor in Occupational Health and Safety Management
  • Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration and International Relations
  • Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and Mass Communications
  • Bachelor of Project Management
  • Bachelor in Human Resource Management
  • Master of Science in Entrepreneurship and Innovation

These new programmes are designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills and competencies needed to thrive in today’s dynamic and competitive job market. Wherever your passions lie Unicaf University has a programme tailored to your interests and career aspirations.

Accreditations

Unicaf University is committed to upholding the highest standards of academic quality and integrity. Our programmes are accredited by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) of Zambia, demonstrating our adherence to local standards and regulations. The Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA) registers all our academic programmes on the Zambia Qualifications Framework.

The Unicaf University campus is accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC) in the UK. The British Accreditation Council is the oldest national independent accrediting body for independent further and higher education providers in the UK. It also accredits international independent providers that aspire to meet international standards in higher education. BAC’s accreditation process is based on an in-depth review of the institutions. Accredited institutions are inspected on a regular basis to ensure that standards are maintained, and that continued accreditation is justified.

Unicaf University in Zambia is now proudly listed in the International Association of Universities (IAU) WHED portal (World Higher Education Database) in collaboration with UNESCO. Universities included in this portal are officially accredited or recognised higher education institutions. The database number for Unicaf University in Zambia is IAU-028638.

Our accreditation status underscores our commitment to upholding rigorous quality standards and delivering a world-class education that equips and prepares students for success in the global marketplace.

Conclusion

At Unicaf University we are dedicated to empowering individuals to realise their full potential and achieve their academic and professional goals. Our new campus is more than just a place of learning—it’s a vibrant community where students from diverse backgrounds come together to explore, innovate and grow.

Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a working professional looking to advance your career or a lifelong learner seeking to pursue your passion, Unicaf University in Zambia welcomes you to join us on a transformative educational journey. Explore our programmes, visit our campus and experience the difference of a Unicaf University education firsthand.

Kenneth Kaunda Day 2024 forestry homily-Cultivating Unity: A Call for Foresters to Support Each Other and Uphold Professional Integrity

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Kenneth Kaunda Day 2024 forestry homily-Cultivating Unity: A Call for Foresters to Support Each Other and Uphold Professional Integrity

Today, as we come together to commemorate Kenneth Kaunda Day, an esteemed occasion for professionals within the forestry domain, we are deeply moved by the enduring legacy of Zambia’s founding father. This day holds profound significance as we reflect on the visionary leadership of Kaunda and his indelible impact on our nation. In honoring his memory, we are reminded of one of his resounding slogans, “Tiyende Pamodzi Ndi Mtima Umodzi,” which serves as a clarion call to unity and collective progress.

Kaunda’s vision for unity resonates deeply with us, particularly in our profession where collaboration and solidarity are the cornerstones of success. As we pause to reflect on his words, we are inspired to reaffirm our commitment to working together, supporting one another, and upholding the principles of unity in all our endeavors. His legacy serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path towards a future where unity and inclusivity reign supreme.

In paying homage to Kaunda’s legacy, let us embody the spirit of togetherness and celebrate the rich diversity within our forestry community. By standing united, we can surmount obstacles, realize our collective aspirations, and steward our natural resources sustainably for the betterment of both present and future generations.

As we mark this auspicious day, let us honor Kenneth Kaunda’s unwavering dedication to unity and strive to emulate his vision in our daily actions and interactions within the forestry domain. Together, let us forge ahead with hearts united, epitomizing the essence of “Tiyende Pamodzi Ndi Mtima Umodzi.”

“Cultivating Unity: A Call for Foresters to Support Each Other and Uphold Professional Integrity”

Within the forestry community, the absence of a robust support system among colleagues is a pressing concern that warrants our immediate attention. A recent incident has underscored the gravity of this issue. When presented with an opportunity to employ a forester, I recommended a candidate who, despite working as a security guard, possessed the requisite qualifications. However, my advocacy fell on deaf ears, as preference was given to a younger applicant. This unfortunate experience sheds light on the harsh realities faced by many qualified individuals, such as the security guard, who encounter significant barriers to employment within our profession.

It is disheartening to witness fellow foresters disregard the importance of supporting one another, particularly in facilitating opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. The reliance on recommendations from within the ministry by the civil service commission underscores the pivotal role of internal support networks within our community. Without such solidarity, deserving candidates like the security guard are left marginalized and devoid of prospects, perpetuating a cycle of exclusion and inequity.

Addressing my esteemed colleagues in the forestry department, I implore you to uphold a steadfast commitment to fairness and advocate for the inclusion of private forestry professionals by both the public sector and private clients. We must confront the sobering reality where seasoned foresters, despite their qualifications, languish in unemployment due to a lack of connections, while those with influential ties and later graduation dates secure coveted positions, leaving genuine applicants disillusioned and disenfranchised. In the forestry sector, where unwavering dedication is paramount, there is no room for favoritism or nepotism. Embracing meritocracy as the cornerstone of Zambia’s development is imperative for fostering a more equitable and just society.

Tragically, reports of clandestine recruitments in districts such as Mpika and Nyimba have tarnished the integrity of our profession(No advert, no interviews but employed arbitrary). As custodians of the forestry institute and ambassadors of our profession, it is incumbent upon us to denounce such practices unequivocally and advocate for greater transparency in recruitment processes. We must actively promote opportunities for all qualified individuals, irrespective of their personal connections or background, to ensure a level playing field for aspiring foresters.

Cultivating a culture of unity and solidarity among foresters is paramount for advancing our profession and safeguarding the sustainable management of our natural resources. Despite the myriad challenges we face, including financial constraints and logistical hurdles, I implore my colleagues to join me in championing the cause of the Forestry Institute of Zambia and nurturing an environment of inclusivity and fairness within our community.

Together, let us sow the seeds of unity and solidarity within our ranks, ensuring that the forestry profession remains a beacon of opportunity for all who aspire to contribute to the preservation and stewardship of our natural heritage.

Chaliafya Katungula
Secretary General
Forestry Institute of Zambia

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