Monday, May 5, 2025
Home Blog Page 102

HRC Calls for Swift Investigations into Hon. Emmanuel Jay Banda’s Abduction

Banda Emmanuel MP
Petauke MP Emmanula Banda

The Human Rights Commission (HRC) has urged the police to expedite investigations into the abduction of Petauke Central Member of Parliament, Hon. Emmanuel Jay Banda. This call follows complaints from various quarters, including Mr. Banda’s legal representatives, regarding restricted family access to him at Maina Soko Military Hospital.

The HRC visited Mr. Banda on May 28, 2024, to address concerns about his well-being and family access. The visit revealed that, contrary to the complaints, Mr. Banda’s family members had been allowed to visit him regularly. The medical and security personnel at Maina Soko Military Hospital confirmed that all his wives, sisters, and other relatives were permitted to see him since his admission.

During the visit, Mr. Banda, accompanied by his three wives, recounted his harrowing abduction ordeal. He detailed the torture he endured, particularly under his feet, but noted that his pain was subsiding, and he was now able to walk freely. He praised the professional conduct of the medical staff at the hospital and expressed a strong desire to reunite with his children, preferably “at the farm.”

The HRC emphasized the urgency of a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice, thereby preventing further human rights violations. They highlighted the potential for Mr. Banda’s abduction to sow discord in the country if not promptly and properly addressed.

In their statement, the HRC called for improved communication between the State, Mr. Banda’s family, and the public to ensure transparency and trust. They stressed the importance of understanding that the ongoing measures are in the best interest of all parties involved and are not meant to victimize anyone.

Spokesperson Mweelwa Muleya underscored the necessity of collaboration between the police, medical personnel, and Mr. Banda’s family to ensure his swift recovery and psychological healing. The Commission reiterated the need for Mr. Banda’s situation to be resolved quickly to uphold national unity and prevent the spread of discord.

The HRC’s visit and subsequent statement aim to reassure the public and Mr. Banda’s family of the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding human rights and ensuring justice in this troubling case.

Detention of Honourable Maureen Mabongo

The Zambia Police Service in Lusaka on, May 28, 2024, recorded a warn and caution statement and detained Honourable Maureen Mabonga, aged 40, Member of Parliament for Mfuwe Constituency.

Honourable Maureen Mabonga has been detained for the following offences:

1. Seditious Practices: Contrary to Section 57, 1 (b) as read with Section 60, 1 (e) of the Penal Code Act Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.
2. Expressing or Showing Ridicule or Contempt for Persons Because of Tribe or Place of Origin: Contrary to Section 70 of the Penal Code Act Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.

These charges follow thorough investigations into actions and statements made by Honourable Mabonga that are deemed to incite rebellion against state authority and promote tribal discrimination and contempt, which threaten national unity and public order.

Honourable Maureen Mabonga is currently detained in police custody. She will appear in court soon to face the charges brought against her.

The Zambia Police Service remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their status, are held accountable for actions that undermine peace and unity in our nation.
We urge the public to remain calm and avoid making speculative statements that could heighten tensions. As Zambia police Service we are dedicated to conduct our duties with fairness and integrity, ensuring that justice is served.

Rae Hamoonga
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER.

President Hichilema Officiates 2024 Technology Empowering Development Forum in Luanshya

5
President Hakainde Hichilema during the official opening ceremony of the 2024 Technology Empowering Development Forum at the China Non-Ferrous Metals Mining Group (CNMC)

President Hakainde Hichilema yesterday officiated the opening ceremony of the 2024 Technology Empowering Development Forum at the China Non-Ferrous Metals Mining Group (CNMC). Joined by CNMC CEO Mr. Wang Jingjun and his team, the event aimed to enhance cooperation in mining, explore new opportunities, and improve mineral resource development and utilization levels for mutual benefit.

Speaking at the forum, President Hichilema highlighted the pivotal role of the mining industry in Zambia’s economy. “Our regular visits to the Copperbelt, particularly to Luanshya, underscore our vision to create a resilient economy, provide employment, and offer business opportunities for our people,” he stated. He emphasized the importance of partnerships with companies like CNMC that bring advanced technology and value addition to the sector.

A key highlight of the event was the commissioning of the newly constructed Sino-Zam Vocational College of Science and Technology, built by CNMC Luanshya Copper Mine. Formerly known as Craft Training School, established in 1965, the college aims to equip young Zambians with essential technological skills, aligning with the government’s commitment to youth skills development.

In addition to the forum, the day also marked the commencement of the de-watering process of the 28 Shaft, also known as the Luanshya New Mine. Using 15 high-tech, high-powered customized pumps, CNMC Luanshya Copper Mine has begun the trial process of pumping out 100 million cubic meters of water. The water will be channeled through Miliashi and Nkrumashiba streams and eventually into the Kafue River to support electricity generation.

President Hichilema expressed gratitude for the enhanced bilateral partnerships between China and Zambia, emphasizing the significance of these developments. “These events are a testimony to the strengthened cooperation between our two nations, demonstrating our shared commitment to economic development and technological advancement,” he remarked.

The forum and related initiatives reflect the Zambian government’s ongoing efforts to foster a robust mining sector, drive economic growth, and create opportunities for its citizens through strategic international partnerships.

Zambians Will Not Be Divided Under My Watch – HH

28

President Hakainde Hichilema has warned anyone trying to divide Zambians on tribal lines that the long arm of the law will visit them.

The President says Zambia has enjoyed peace and tranquility since independence and that he will not allow anyone to divide the peace loving Zambians.

The Head of State was speaking when he addressed scores of Ndola residents who turned up at Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport to welcome him.

The President arrived in Ndola at 12:25hours for a 2-day working visit to the Copperbelt Province aboard the Presidential jet.

Speaking earlier, Copperbelt Provincial Minister, Elisha Matambo informed the President that the province was grateful that the government is resurrecting a lot of things that were considered dead in the province such as the Shaft 28 mine in Luanshya.

T

LAZ Condemns Divisive Tribal Remarks

The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has issued a strong condemnation of the divisive statements made by some opposition Members of Parliament, warning that such rhetoric has the potential to incite conflict among citizens.

In a statement released to ZNBC News, LAZ President Lungisani Zulu expressed alarm over remarks that seem to promote divisions along tribal and regional lines. He emphasized that national unity should never be sacrificed for any cause or difference.

Mr. Zulu highlighted the importance of remembering that Zambia’s strength lies in its diversity. He pointed out that the various challenges facing society can only be effectively addressed by leveraging the unique differences in opinions and skills across the nation.

“LAZ’s position is that there is no cause or difference worth sacrificing national unity,” Zulu stated. He urged all citizens to embrace the national motto, “One Zambia – One Nation,” and to uphold the constitutionally prescribed national principles and values of patriotism and unity.

Furthermore, Mr. Zulu called on political leaders to refrain from making statements that could foster division and instead to work towards promoting harmony and cohesion among all Zambians. He stressed that political discourse should always be geared towards building a united and inclusive society.

Update On Health Status Of Petauke MP Emmanuel Banda

Government wishes to inform the public that Petauke Central Member of Parliament, Hon. Emmanuel Banda, is recovering well at Maina Soko Medical Centre in Lusaka.

Hon Banda has expressed his gratitude to the Government of the Republic of Zambia and the people for their prayers and support during the period he was missing. He conveyed his appreciation during a visit today by Information and Media Permanent Secretary Mr Thabo Kawana and his Home Affairs counterpart Mr Dickson Mutembo.
Mr Kawana has called on the public to respect Hon Banda’s privacy and give him the necessary space to recover. He emphasised that it is unacceptable for certain politicians to exploit Hon Banda’s situation for political gain.

Additionally, Mr Mutembo urged the public not to abuse Hon Banda’s situation to spread misinformation.

Furthermore, Maina Soko Medical Centre Commandant, Brigadier General Levy Muchemwa, informed the Permanent Secretaries that Hon Banda is making good progress in his recovery and is now able to walk without support. It is also important to note that Hon Banda shows no physical marks of injury.

The family, including his spouses, have 24/7 access to him, with his wives being at his bedside since his admission. Among those who have visited him are Chieftainess Mwanjabantu, Chief Nyamphande, and Chief Mumbi, all of Petauke, as well as the Human Rights Commission and members of his family.

Government will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
Issued by:
Public and Media Relations Unit
MINISTRY OF INFORMATION AND MEDIA

World Menstrual Hygiene Day Commemorated

Chinsali Acting District Commissioner (DC) Francis Mbati has called for strengthened awareness on menstrual hygiene in schools in the district.

Mr Mbati said managing menstrual hygiene education in schools should be widespread among learners to ensure the girl child adapts to good menstrual hygiene practices.

Speaking during the first-ever commemorations of the World Menstrual Hygiene Day in Chinsali, Mr Mbati said the government remains committed to providing sanitary pads in all education facilities in the district.

He said menstrual health is a global issue that needs to be managed with comfort and dignity by schools, adding that targeted policies that the Government has developed seek to eliminate period poverty in which low-income women and girls struggle to access menstrual products.

“As District Administration, we believe in the importance of getting women and girls involved in water and sanitation management when it comes to challenging social norms,” he said.

He further emphasised the importance of women groups engaging influential stakeholders in creating crucial awareness about menstrual hygiene in various communities besides schools.

And District Senior Education Standards Officer, Elizabeth Chitamombo, who represented the Provincial Education Officer Alexander Mulenga, commended the Government for paying particular attention to the well-being of girls in school through the provision of sanitary pads.

She stated that the Ministry of Education has continued to partner with other cooperating partners in ensuring that the girl child is not stigmatised during their menstruation periods.

“I further wish to assure you that we will continue to remind our learners to always ensure that they adhere to all the environmental guidelines with regards to good menstrual hygiene practices,” she added.

Meanwhile, Kapwepwe Day Secondary School pupils’ representative Elizabeth Mulenga advised her fellow girls to report any stigma they experience during their menstruation periods.

The 2024 World Menstrual Hygiene Day was commemorated today under the theme, “In a period-friendly world, the stigma and taboos surrounding menstruation are history.”

Parents Counseled Against Hiding Children With Disabilities

Ndola Education Standards officer, Robert Ngoma, has called on the public to assist in identifying children living with disability in communities for them to receive the required assistance from government.

Mr Robert Ngoma notes that many parents in various communities who are living in denial of having children living with disabilities are fond of hiding such children, a bad habit that has robbed many children of their right to free education and medical help.

ZANIS in Ndola reports that Mr Ngoma was speaking in an interview at the just ended five days of basic sign language training for all government front line workers from various departments in Ndola district.
He echoed that the basic sign language training workshop would not have come at a better time when the government is eager to ensure that no child is left uneducated.

Mr Ngoma added that education is a game changer hence the need to capture and equip children living with disability with the necessary skills to help them have a bright future.
He said once the deaf and dumb are educated they will have the ability to fend for themselves and add to the country’s economic growth.

The Education Standards Officer noted that the government is in a hurry to ensure that children’s rights are protected and given the education that they require.

Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) Assistant Coordinator for Ndola District Susan Shawa said there is need for front line government staff who have been trained in basic sign language to keep practicing for perfection of the skill.

Ms Shawa reiterated that Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities with support from International Labour Organisation (ILO) came up with the training for all front line government workers to bridge Communication barrier between the deaf and dumb and the able bodied persons so that people living with disabilities can also have access to all services that are offered by government.

Man 61,Shot In Sesheke

0

Police in Sesheke District have picked the body of a 61 years old man who was murdered by unknown people using a firearm.

Western Province Commissioner of Police, David Chileshe identified the deceased as John Longwani, of Masamu village in Sesheke district.

Mr Chileshe said the deceased was shot on Sunday, 26th May, 2024 at around 22:00 hours and the matter was reported to the Police by Mr Longwani’s young brother, Sililo Longwani of the same village.
Mr Chileshe stated that the deceased sustained a gunshot wound on the right side of the chest which led to his death.
He further said the body was picked by Police the same day and deposited at Yeta District Hospital mortuary awaiting postmortem as investigations into the matter have been instituted.
And the deceased’s brother, Sililo Longwani bemoaned the manner in which his elder brother had been killed.
“It is bad that people in this era are still having beliefs of witchcraft. If they thought my brother had been practicing witchcraft, they could have brought a witch doctor to come and testify,” he said.

Planning For Eventualities Is Vital -Mulyata

Lusaka Province Minister Sheal Mulyata has called on traditional Leaders, councillors and Government Heads of Departments, to plan for unseen eventualities such as drought using the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
Ms Mulyata who is also Rufunsa Member of Parliament says it is important to plan for unseen circumstances for the benefit of the communities and the country at large.

She was speaking during a planning meeting on leveraging CDF for climate change resilience building in Rufunsa District.

Ms Mulyata said the government is trying to identify communal lands through traditional leaders for farming, adding that boreholes will also be drilled for irrigation so that there is water throughout the year to grow any type of crops in case of drought.

“Government is committed to ensuring that communities are food secure and is working around the clock with several stakeholders to ensure that no one dies of hunger due to the drought,” she said.

Ms Mulyata urged the traditional leaders to cooperate and come up with communal land, where everyone in the community will be benefiting from in terms of food.

And Chief Shikabeta called on the indunas to ensure that the land for the initiative is found.
The traditional leader thanked the government for coming up with such an initiative so that no one dies of hunger in case of drought.
“l am grateful to the government for coming up with such an initiative and me as the chief l will ensure that communal land is found in my area,” he said.
And Council Secretary, Venture Kafula said the government wants to move in quickly hence it was up to the traditional leadership and councilors to identify the land in a shortest possible time.
Bishop Kafula said the government will engage planners and engineers to ensure that the land that will be identified has water and certification by the traditional leadership.
“May you please identify the land as soon as possible as we are ready to be on site when communal lands are found. We don’t want a situation whereby the community should accuse the government of grabbing their land, so work with villagers so that you secure the land that will be communal and certified,” stressed Bishop Dr Kafula.
The communal land will be managed by a committee which will be selected by the traditional leadership.

Former MP Steve Chungu Urges UPND to Revisit Mining Taxation Policy and Address Economic Challenges

FORMER Luanshya Constituency Member of Parliament Steve Chungu has advised the UPND administration to revisit the taxation policy in the mining sector.

Mr Chungu said once the mining taxation policy which he said was currently favouring the foreign investors is revisited, would help to improve the country’s economy.

“They have two more years to go,so it is up to them to revisit the taxation policies in the mining sector so that we can have more money in circulation,” Mr Chungu said.

He said the withdraw of money in circulation has made lives of many Zambians unbearable as they cannot afford essential commodities such as mealie meal.

Mr Chungu also advised the UPND Government and President Hakainde Hichilema not to listen to people who are wrongly advising him on the governance of the country.

He noted that the same things that were happening in the PF regime where leaders were told that everything is okay are happening today in the UPND administration.

“This is exactly what I am seeing,where our leaders were been told that everything is okay,this is exactly what iam seeing, where these so called praise singers are behaving like useful idiots are every day misleading the Government,” Mr Chungu said.

Meanwhile,Mr Chungu appealed to the UPND Government to stop harassing former President Edgar Lungu.

He said by perpetually talking about President Edgar Lungu, the UPND has invited Mr Lungu back into active politics.

He added that the UPND Government should not heap their failure to govern the country on Mr Lungu.

“Former president Lungu has every right to come into politics,he has every constitution right to come back into politics,” Mr Chungu said.

He said the Government was just wasting it’s time attacking Mr Lungu instead of spending that time to improve the economy as they promised Zambians during the 2021 election campaigns.

When we commit crimes, we don’t do it on behalf of tribe; we are on our own!

Whenever our politicians commit crimes, grave ones for that matter such as ransacking our national resources; storming police stations and leaving policemen for dead; engage in dastardly acts such as strangling their girl friends and setting their bodies ablaze or indeed producing their “katushas” and offload their entire toxic materials from their bowels into the mouth of helpless journalists and the noose gets tighter around their necks; they want to seek protection by hiding their enormous transgressions under the guise of their tribes!

Help us understand, please. Which tribe would be proud to be associated with one of their sons or daughters engaging in such Satanic practices? Which Chief in their right frame of mind would approve of such?

Moreover, whenever these individuals we call presidents, ministers or members of parliament defraud our people of their meager resources by whatever means, they don’t take the loot back to their villages to be shared with their tribesmates; they enjoy it alone with their wives, families and girl friends! But even if they may decide to share some of their ill-gotten wealth with tribesmates, is this the way a civilised society must conduct itself……devoid of any morals or values at all?

While the masses remain wallowing in abject poverty, meanwhile these characters we want to blindly support have suddenly become overnight millionaires driving expensive SUVs, living in breathtaking mansions and putting on designer outfits straight from Harrolds and other fashion houses! Why do you insist on rallying behind them even when you know they’ve committed serious iniquities?

This grand scheme of certain people hiding in the name of tribe started with Micheal Sata in opposition. When President Levy Mwanawasa went after former MMD leaders who had plundered our national resources, full throttle; Sata saw it as an opportunity to gain political mileage by recklessly claiming Mwanawasa disliked people from a certain ethnic grouping, hence ‘persecuting’ them on flimsy grounds!

It’s simple logic, if you’ve been a minister and funds went missing during your tenure, who do you expect to be held accountable? As we speak, some MMD leaders are serving prison sentences while others have since done their time.

If there’s any reasonable belief that former president Edgar Lungu or indeed any of his government officials engaged in corrupt practices, they must be held accountable like others before them! There’s nothing special about them. We take strong exception to Mfuwe member of parliament Mabonga insinuating there’s some sort of ethnic cleansing going on. What nonsense! How do you expect those serving in government today to refrain from corrupt activities knowing that their entire tribe will be there to defend them once they’ve vacated office? Hold your horses madam, no matter what you may be drinking!

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Polical/Social Analyst

Rotary launches US$30 million program to combat deadliest childhood diseases in four African countries

‘Rotary Healthy Communities Challenge’ will strengthen health systems and tackle leading childhood killers — malaria, pneumonia, and diarrheal diseases — in the DRC, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Zambia

Despite significant progress in recent years, malaria, pneumonia (lower respiratory infections), and diarrheal diseases remain among the leading causes of illness and death for children under five in sub-Saharan Africa.

In response, Rotary, in collaboration with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (Gates Foundation) and World Vision, is launching its ‘Rotary Healthy Communities Challenge’ to strengthen community health systems to deliver lasting disease prevention and treatment.

Over the next three years, the Rotary Foundation, World Vision, and the Gates Foundation will collectively contribute US$30 million to fund large-scale, high-impact programming, with local leadership and organizations to improve health outcomes for children in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Mozambique, Nigeria, and Zambia. Rotary members will work with these organizations to strengthen community health systems and increase the capacity of community health workers in order to ensure that programs are sustainable.

“Rotary is committed to strengthening health systems and combating diseases by empowering communities to use locally driven solutions that work,” said Rotary International President Gordon McInally. “Together, with the Gates Foundation and World Vision, we will invest in proven methods to help communities provide a healthier and more hopeful future in which everyone will have the opportunity to thrive.”

The selection of the four participating countries was based on disease burden, Rotary member engagement, partnership potential, and alignment with Ministry of Health strategies. Rotary members in each of the participating countries have worked with local partners and ministries of health to develop a program and implementation plan using an evidence-based community health worker model adapted to address each country’s health priorities.

“Investing in community health workers is one of the best things we can do to bolster the fight against malaria and other preventable diseases,” said Philip Welkhoff, Director of Malaria at the Gates Foundation. “We are proud to build on our partnership with Rotary and World Vision and are confident this new initiative will help ensure that children in these four countries have the opportunity to grow up healthy and reach their full potential.”

The ‘Rotary Healthy Communities Challenge’ was built upon the success of the Rotary club-led ‘Partners for a Malaria-Free Zambia’ program that supported the community health workers to reduce the incidence of malaria in ten target districts within two highly affected provinces. With support from the Rotary Foundation, World Vision USA, and the Gates Foundation – each contributing $2 million – 2,500 community health workers were added to the national health system in Zambia, allowing for more effective malaria diagnosis and treatment for more than 1.3 million people.

“It’s an honor to collaborate with the Rotary Foundation and the Gates Foundation to tackle these top killers of children,” said Edgar Sandoval Sr., World Vision president and CEO. “When partners join together, we can have a greater impact on helping the most vulnerable reach their full God-given potential.”

Rotary members throughout the world develop and implement sustainable, community-driven projects that fight disease, promote peace, provide clean water, support education, help mothers and children, grow local economies and protect the environment. Over the last 100 years, US $5.5 billion has been awarded through The Rotary Foundation – Rotary’s charitable arm that helps clubs work together to perform meaningful, impactful service.

Detention of Honourable Munir Zulu and Mr. Brebnar Changala

The Zambia Police Service wishes to inform the public of the detention of Honourable Munir Zulu and Mr. Brebnar Changala.

Honourable Munir Zulu has been detained for an alleged offence of hate speech. This action follows an investigation into statements made by Honourable Zulu that are deemed to incite hatred and division among various groups in our society. Hate speech is a serious offence that undermines national unity and peace, and the Zambia Police Service remains committed to upholding the law and ensuring that such actions are addressed appropriately.

Additionally, Mr. Brebnar Changala has been detained for the alleged offence of seditious practices. This follows evidence gathered indicating that Mr. Changala engaged in activities intended to incite rebellion against the authority of the state. Seditious practices pose a significant threat to national security and public order, and the Zambia Police Service will take all necessary measures to prevent such actions and maintain stability in our nation.

Both accused persons, Honourable Munir Zulu and Mr. Brebnar Changala, are currently in police custody. They will appear in court soon to face the respective charges brought against them.

The Zambia Police Service urges the public to remain calm and refrain from making speculative statements that could exacerbate tensions. We are dedicated to conducting our duties with fairness and integrity, ensuring that justice is served.
Rae Hamoonga
POLICE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER.

President Hichilema Meets with MCC CEO to Strengthen US-Zambia Partnership

14

President Hakainde Hichilema held a pivotal meeting with Alice P. Albright, Chief Executive Officer of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), at State House. This meeting highlighted the growing bilateral partnership between the United States and Zambia, showing an increased interest from the US business community in investing in Zambia.

President Hichilema expressed profound appreciation for MCC’s collaboration with the Zambian government, particularly emphasizing the positive impacts of the first Compact, which focused on water supply and sanitation. This initiative has significantly improved the quality of life for many Zambians, demonstrating the benefits of international partnerships in fostering socio-economic development.

The meeting also celebrated Zambia’s selection for a second Compact, with an indicative budget of $450 million. President Hichilema thanked MCC for this substantial commitment, which is anticipated to further advance Zambia’s development goals. This second Compact signifies continued confidence in Zambia’s potential and underscores the importance of sustained collaboration between the two countries.

A central focus of the second Compact is the improvement of the Chipata-Lundazi-Old Magodi Road, which is vital for the productive agricultural regions in Zambia’s Eastern Province. Enhancing this infrastructure will facilitate better market access for farmers and boost overall economic activities in the region. President Hichilema emphasized that this project is crucial for driving agricultural productivity and economic growth.

During the discussions, the Zambian delegation expressed their desire for quicker turnaround times in the implementation of the second Compact projects. They stressed the need for efficient and timely execution to ensure that the benefits are promptly realized by the communities. President Hichilema conveyed optimism about the swift conclusion of all necessary processes leading to the signing of the Compact.