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Why is PF Government Seeking IMF Bailout when Copper Price is at all-time high of US$9,000 per metric tonne?

Chief Editor
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Why is PF Government Seeking IMF Bailout when Copper Price is at all-time high of US$9,000 per metric tonne?

By Sean Tembo

1. As Patriots for Economic Progress (PeP) it is our considered opinion that the continued attempt by Government to get a bailout loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) at a time that the price for copper is at an all-time high of about US$9,000 per metric tonne, is ample evidence that the PF have failed to run this country and need to be retired in the national interest on 12th August this year.

It must be noted that IMF bailout loans are meant for countries that have no resources and are on the brink of total economic collapse. However, Zambia has an abundance of resources and world economic parameters are in our favour due to the advent of electric vehicles which has caused a major surge in the price of copper which is a major component in their manufacture and is our major export commodity.

2. Given the circumstances at hand, our expectations as Patriots for Economic Progress were that the Government would be talking about how best the country should utilize the surge in copper prices for our economic prosperity and not talking about getting an IMF bailout loan.

The fact that the PF and its Government see borrowing as a solution to every national economic problem renders credence to our long held position that the Patriotic Front is a party that is made up of incompetent people that were in group C in class. Therefore, any reasonable Zambian should not expect improvement in the manner that the PF Government will run the affairs of this nation, should Zambians be naive enough to re-elect them back into office.

3. As Patriots for Economic Progress, we wish to appeal to the Zambian people to vote into office a political party that will competently and diligently run the affairs of this nation and which will be able to convert the huge economic potential that Zambia has into actual wealth for the benefit of Zambians. That political party is the Patriots for Economic Progress. The only thing that the PF and its Government are capable of doing is contracting more and more national debt, despite the fact that we have already defaulted on our debt repayment.

Come 12th August, if Zambians insist on re-electing this collection of group C individuals when group A is available, the end result will be continued shrinkage of the economy, unemployment, poverty, squalor and corruption. Zambians have a very important decision to make on 12th August this year. We have already seen what group C is able to do. It is now time to try group A.

Reduction in COVID-19 cases impressive- Chanda

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Reduction in COVID-19 cases impressive- Chanda

Minister of Health Jonas Chanda says the COVID-19 cases requiring admission has continued to reduce with the number being less than one hundred, for the past six days.

Dr Chanda adds that as of today, the country has seen no admissions in Central, Luapula and Western provinces, a similar case with isolation facilities outside Lusaka District in Lusaka Province.

The Minister notes that as the ministry winds down the operations on some of the COVID-19 isolation centres, it has continued taking stock of the equipment and human resource invested, in order for them to be adequately prepared for a possible third wave, which may require scaled up capacity.

He indicated in a statement released to ZANIS in Lusaka today that training of health staff in emergency response, remains top priority, not only for a possible COVID-19 third wave but for other eventual disease outbreaks.

“On that note, we wish to wholeheartedly thank all the frontline health workers in the entire response. It has not been easy to work under emergency conditions for over one year now,” he said.

“We thank you for your efforts to save the lives of our people and subsequently turning the situation around while managing the other disease burdens such as infectious and non- communicable including Maternal and Child Health issues.” Dr Chanda added.

And the Minister has announced that his ministry has enhanced its surveillance activities during the long Easter weekend, including in congregate settings such as churches and institutions of higher learning.

He noted that in the past, the Ministry of Health observed a disappointing level of laxity among people gathering at social events and reiterated the need to continue adhering to the five health guidelines, as they remain cardinal in the country’s efforts to fight the pandemic.

“Please note that the COVID-19 public health guidelines have not changed. The five golden rules remain the bedrock of our efforts to curb community transmission. We must maintain our positivity below the recommended 5% across all the provinces if we are to further reduce community transmission,” urged Dr Chanda.

Meanwhile, the Minister has revealed that Zambia has in the last 24 hours recorded 181 new cases out of 4,814 tests conducted, representing a 4 percent positivity and bringing the cumulative number of confirmed cases recorded to date to 88,730.

The Minister of Health has stated that the new cases and positivity broken down by province shows that Central Province recorded 39, Lusaka 31, North-western 22, Luapula Province 20 and 16 for Eastern Province.

Others were 16 from Southern Province, Western 14, Muchinga 10, 8 from Northern and 5 from the Copperbelt Province.

“Regrettably, we recorded three new deaths among them two from Lusaka and one from North-western Province. The cumulative number of COVID-19 related deaths recorded now stands at 1,215, classified as 678 COVID deaths and 537 COVID-19 associated deaths,” he highlighted.

And Dr Chanda added that a combined 127 discharges were recorded from both the COVID-19 isolation facilities and home management, bringing the cumulative number of recoveries to 84,825 representing 96 percent.

The Minister further stated that currently the country has 2,690 active cases, of which 2,610 are under community management and 80 are admitted to COVID-19 isolation facilities.

“Among those admitted, 60 are on Oxygen therapy and 10 are in critical condition,” he said.

Dr Chanda has further appealed to all members of the public to be on guard during this Easter weekend, adding that the reduction in case positivity is not cause for not adhering to the health guidelines.

Farmers receive fertilizer- Serenje

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Farmers receive fertilizer- Serenje

Farmers in Serenje district in Central Province have started receiving fertiliser for the 2021/2022 farming season.

Serenje District Commissioner Chunga Musonda confirmed the development to ZANIS in an interview.

Mr Musonda said Serenje district has so far received 28,000 by 50kilogram bags of D’compound fertiliser, out of the 68,478 bags of fertiliser allocated to the district under the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP).

Mr Musonda said Nyimba Investment, the company engaged, started delivering the fertiliser a few days ago, and is expected to commence distributing top dressing fertiliser to the district soon.

Mr Musonda has commended government for the commencement of the early delivery of farming inputs.

“This is very encouraging. We are grateful to government. This has never happened in the history of Zambia where before farmers harvest, they already have fertiliser for the next season,” he said.

Mr Musonda said people should not criticize the move, but should instead appreciate the early delivery of inputs for the next farming season.

“Critics will always have something to criticize but this time there is absolutely no reason to do so. This is unprecedented and critics should just appreciate,” Mr Musonda said.

He said the early distribution of the inputs means that farmers will be able to start preparing for the next farming season immediately after they are done with harvesting.

Chinsali residents turns up for voter verification

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Chinsali residents turns up for voter verification

The Voter Verification exercise which started on a slow pace at most verification centres in Chinsali district of Muchinga province, has now gained momentum.

A snap check conducted by ZANIS in Chinsali this morning found people verifying their details.

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) inspection officer under the verification exercise based at Mwaba verification centre, Fridah Mponde said the turnout has increased compared to the time the exercise commenced on Monday this week.

Ms Ponde attributed the poor turn in the initial days to luck of publicity.

She said a number of people did not know where to go and have their details checked and verified.

She said the turn has been good from Tuesday to date with over 60 registered voters having had passed through by press time.

“The verification exercise is gaining momentum and we are appealing to people who have not yet verified their details, to do before the exercise comes to a close, “said Ms. Ponde.

And another ECZ inspection officer at Chinsali day verification centre Constance Zulu said most people have verified their details via mobile facility.

She said most people that are visiting the centre are doing card replacements for lost voter’s card, transfers and a few of those who have discovered typical graphical errors after checking on their own.

“We are receiving a lot of people who are coming to replace their lost cards and those who want to transfer to another polling station,” she said.

The voter verification exercise which begun on Monday 29 March, 2021 is expected to end tomorrow Friday April 2, 2021.

Nkana Off To Tanzania For CAF Confed Cup Date Against Namungo

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Nkana this morning left for Tanzania ahead of Sunday’s CAF Confederation Cup Group D game against Namungo in Dar-es Salaam.

Kalampa flew out via Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport at 11:00hrs aboard a chartered plane.

The team has since arrived safely in Tanzania.

Both Nkana and Namungo are winless from the first two Group D matches heading into the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar-es Salaam on Sunday.

“I can assure the fans and everyone that we will come home with a smile,” said Nkana captain Richard Ocran.

“We are ready for the game and there is hope. We are going there to play a game and we are ready for anything,” defender Ocran said.

Nkana launched Group D action with a 3-0 loss to Egyptian side Pyramids in Cairo on March 10 before succumbing to a 2-0 home loss to Raja Casablanca in Ndola seven days later.

Chinama Regrets GBFC’s Failure to Beat Nkana

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Green Buffaloes coach Justin Chinama is regretting that his side gave away a lead twice to draw against Nkana in a FAZ Super Division match played in Wusakile, Kitwe on Thursday.

Buffaloes conceded an 89th minute goal at Nkana Stadium to draw 2-2.

In a post-match interview, Chinama described the stalemate as a bad result.

“It is a bad result for us. It is a game we should have easily won,” he said.

“We were leading on two occasions but we made silly mistakes and allowed those two goals,” Chinama said.

The draw saw both sides stay put with Nkana at 16th on 21 points and Buffaloes 14th on 23 points.

Under pressure Nkana coach Kelvin Kaindu was not equally happy with the home draw.

“It was a difficult game. I think we came out a bit stronger in the second half after making some changes. But it is the way that we concede. I think just after scoring we gained a bit of momentum but allowed an easy goal,” Kaindu said.

“At the end of the day 2-2 is not a good result for us,” he said.

Standard Bank Brazil ready to fund SADC import and export sectors

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Standard Bank Brazil ready to fund SADC import and export sectors

Standard Bank Brazil which is one of the major financing institutions in Sub Saharan Africa says it is ready to fund import and export sectors between Southern African Development Community (SADC) member States and Brazil.

Speaking when she addressed Brazil’s SADC Group of Ambassadors during a virtual meeting, Standard Bank Brazil Chief Executive Officer Natalia Dias said she was gratified that the financial institution had already set the ball rolling with the Sugar and Bio Fuel sectors in Zambia.

Ms Dias said Standard Bank Brazil, that trades as Stanbic Bank in Africa has renewed its commitment in supporting the SADC region in developing sectors such as Agricultural Technology, Construction, Manufacturing and Mining through providing financial aid to boost the economies of individual African countries.

“I therefore encourage the SADC Head of Missions to select investment projects in the Agricultural Sector that can easily transform their country’s food security and enhance the Gross Domestic Product (GDP),” she said.

And Zambia’s Ambassador to Brazil Alfreda Mwamba is elated with the financial institution’s commitment to support sectors that are instrumental to economic growth, such as agriculture and manufacturing.

Dr Mwamba told the banking group that funding the sectors in Zambia should be prioritised as both government and the private sector stand ready to promote trade and investment.

Mr Mwamba further called on the Bank to support Africa in business ventures that have the capacity to improve imports and exports for individual countries.

Meanwhile, Brazil’s SADC group of Ambassadors Chairperson Gamiliel Munguambe who is also Mozambique’s Ambassador to Brazil, described SADC and Standard Bank of Brazil business meeting as a back-bone to economic sustainability.

The meeting was aimed at promoting trade and investment opportunities in Africa.

All the SADC diplomats in Brasilia were unanimous in their plea for Standard Bank Brazil, a representative office of South Africa’s Standard Bank group to provide financial muscle to the trade between SADC and Brazil.

This is contained in a statement issued to the media in Lusaka today by First Secretary for Press and Public Relations at the Zambian Embassy in Brazil, Grace Makowane.

Health Minister Threatens to Close Learning Institutions Not Complying with Covid-19 Guidelines

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Health Minister Threatens to Close Learning Institutions Not Complying with Covid-19 Guidelines

Health Minister Dr. Jonas Chanda has warned that Government will take action by closing learning institutions that will record a high number of cases due to laxity in following guidelines set for the prevention of Covid-19 in schools.

Commenting on reports that a significant number of students from Levy Mwanawasa Medical University had tested positive for Covid-19, Dr. Chanda said he was disappointed that a medical University which should lead by example, was one that had recorded the numbers due to laxity.

“We have do not want our higher learning institutions to become epicenters for Covid-19, and with that, the President has been very clear, that stipulated guidelines are followed, you do not follow the guidelines, we close you.” Dr. Chanda said.

And the Health Minister has appealed to the Public not to relax in the prevention of Covid-19 over the coming long weekend.

Speaking during the Covid-19 update today, Dr. Chanda said there is likely to be an increase in social gatherings which are a conduit for the spread of Covid-19.
“we anticipate a number of social gatherings. We wish to remind our people that these congregate settings are a conduit for the super spread of COVID-19, as many people attend these events with poor adherence to the public health guidance.”

“Despite the reduction in our case positivity, I wish to remind us all that the risk of infection remains high, particularly in congregate settings. Therefore, I wish to earnestly appeal to each and every Zambian to be on guard this long weekend. Do not give in to laxity.” The Minister said.

And in the last 24 hours, 131 new Covid-19 cases have been recorded in the last 24 hours out of 5, 487 translating into a 2% positivity rate, bringing the cumulative number of cases recorded to 88,549 a combined total of 106 discharges were recorded both from the Covid-19 isolation facilities and home management bringing the cumulative number of recoveries to 84, 698 translating to 96%.

On a sad note, 4 deaths were recorded in the last 24 hours bringing the cumulative number of Covid-19 related deaths to 1,212 classified as 676 Covid-19 deaths and 536 Covid-19 associated death.

ECZ Extends Voter Verification Process to Wednesday April 7th

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ECZ Extends Voter Verification Process to Wednesday April 7th

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has extended the physical inspection of the Provisional Register of Voters by five days.

ECZ Chief Executive Officer Kryticious Nshindano says the Commission has considered feedback from various stakeholders and has extended the inspection period for another five days beginning tomorrow April 3rd 2021 to Wednesday April 7th, 2021.

Mr Nshindano said this during a press briefing this morning.

He has since encouraged registered voters to take advantage of the extension, to verify their details using the USSD Code and Web-based platform.

Mr Nshindano stated that there is no need to physically go to the centre once one is sure that the details presented are correct.

He explained that physical inspection centres are designated for services such as correction of wrongly captured details, replacement of lost or damaged voters’ cards, transfers for those who would like to change their polling stations and removal of the deceased voters from the register.

Mr Nshindano noted that during this period, the Commission is also receiving objections and appeals.

He further said the Commission has taken note of the concerns raised by some political parties, as well as independent candidates, with regards to the period allocated for payment of nomination fees.

Mr Nshindano stated that Presidential Candidates should pay their nomination fees between the 1st and 9th of May 2021, in order to allow for pre-processing of supporters scheduled for 10th May 2021.

He added that candidates for the National Assembly and councils should pay between 1st and 16th May 2021, to accommodate the provisions of the dissolution of Parliament and Councils which has been set for 14th May 2021.

He said this will allow sitting Members of Parliament and Councilors wishing to recontest to pay nomination fees after the dissolution of parliament and the councils.

“All aspiring candidates will be required to make deposits in the ECZ Bank Accounts provided as the Commission will not be handling cash”, he said.

Meanwhile Mr Nshindano said the technical committee on mainstreaming COVID-19 prevention measures in the 2021 general election calendar is formulating guidelines and further engagement of political parties and stakeholders.

He added that all political activities should adhere to the COVID-19 guidelines in order to reduce the spread of the virus.

Chanda Mbao Celebrates the Eastern Province

Entertainment Editor
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Chanda Mbao Celebrates the Eastern Province

Chanda Mbao has just released a brand new music video entitled ‘Kumawa’ alongside collaborators Vinchenzo, Kdie and Deon Kruger as part of the artist’s One Nation Project roll-out. The One Nation Project is a collaborative album which was released just before Independence Day last year with the aim of uniting Zambian musicians from all ten provinces of the country, particularly focusing on young talent. Furthermore, the team behind the project (Chanda Mbao, Mumamba Chungu and Shinko Beats) put the project up for online sale, directing all proceeds to charity. We are informed they are still yet to hit their goal of ZMW 10,000 in downloads–if LT readers wish to join the noble cause, please do so here: bit.ly/OneNationDL

In order to keep promoting the young Zambian talent that took part in the project, Chanda Mbao has teamed up with CBT Cinematics to put together visuals for as many of the songs as possible, although they mention they are seeking financial support/sponsorship to travel to all the provinces represented on the album. Artist Chanda Mbao mentioned that the entire project, bringing together 32 artists and producers from all 10 provinces of Zambia, was solely financed by himself and he wishes to do more for all parties involved so is exploring partnerships to assist in the same.

For now, he leaves us with a dedication to the Eastern Province, celebrating their culture and heritage.

The song is called ‘Kumawa’ and you can watch the music video below

 

Botswana President Visits Zambia in Pictures

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Botswana President Visits Zambia in Pictures

1.

President Edgar Lungu confers with his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi shortly before his departure to Botswana at Kenneth Kaunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
President Edgar Lungu confers with his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi shortly before his departure to Botswana at Kenneth Kaunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

2.
President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi confers with Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji greet Botswana's officials on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi confers with Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji greet Botswana’s officials on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

3.
President Edgar Lungu with his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi watching traditional dancers at Kenneth Kaunda International airport before departure to Botswana yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
President Edgar Lungu with his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi watching traditional dancers at Kenneth Kaunda International airport before departure to Botswana yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

4.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji introduces President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi to Zambian officials at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji introduces President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi to Zambian officials at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

5.
President Edgar Lungu sees off his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi at Kenneth Kaunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
President Edgar Lungu sees off his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi at Kenneth Kaunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

6.
President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi in the saluting dias on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi in the saluting dias on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

7.
President Edgar Lungu confers with his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi shortly before his departure to Botswana at Kenneth Kaunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
President Edgar Lungu confers with his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi shortly before his departure to Botswana at Kenneth Kaunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

8.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji introduces President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi to Zambian officials at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji introduces President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi to Zambian officials at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

9.
President Edgar Lungu confers with his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi shortly before his departure to Botswana at Kenneth Kaunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
President Edgar Lungu confers with his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi shortly before his departure to Botswana at Kenneth Kaunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

10.
Service Chiefs salute to President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
Service Chiefs salute to President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

11.
President Edgar Lungu with his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi admiring the presidential photo album of his visit at Kenneth Kaunda International airport before departure to Botswana yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
President Edgar Lungu with his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi admiring the presidential photo album of his visit at Kenneth Kaunda International airport before departure to Botswana yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

12.
President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi confers with Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji and Lusaka Province Minister Bowman Lusambo on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi confers with Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji and Lusaka Province Minister Bowman Lusambo on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

13.
President Edgar Lungu with his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi admiring the presidential photo album of his visit at Kenneth Kaunda International airport before departure to Botswana yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
President Edgar Lungu with his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi admiring the presidential photo album of his visit at Kenneth Kaunda International airport before departure to Botswana yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

14.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji welcomes President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji welcomes President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

15.
President Edgar Lungu hands over the presidential photo album of his visit to his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi at Kenneth Kaunda International airport before departure to Botswana yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
President Edgar Lungu hands over the presidential photo album of his visit to his Botswana counterpart Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi at Kenneth Kaunda International airport before departure to Botswana yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

16.
President Edgar Lungu welcomes his Botswana counterpart Dr.Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi when he paid a courtesy call on him at State House
President Edgar Lungu welcomes his Botswana counterpart Dr.Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi when he paid a courtesy call on him at State House

17.
President Edgar Lungu welcomes his Botswana counterpart Dr.Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi when he paid a courtesy call on him at State House
President Edgar Lungu welcomes his Botswana counterpart Dr.Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi when he paid a courtesy call on him at State House

18.
President Edgar Lungu introduces his Special Assistants to his Botswana counterpart Dr.Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi when he paid a courtesy call on him at State House yesterday
President Edgar Lungu introduces his Special Assistants to his Botswana counterpart Dr.Mokgweetsi Eric Masisi when he paid a courtesy call on him at State House yesterday

19.
President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi with Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji watch dancing troups on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi with Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji watch dancing troups on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

20.
President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi with Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji watch dancing troups on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS
President of Botswana Dr. Mokgweesti Eric Masisi with Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Malanji watch dancing troups on his arrival at Kenneth Kunda International airport yesterday, Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Picture by ROYD SIBAJENE/ZANIS

ZCCM-IH shareholders endorse 90% acquisition in Mopani

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ZCCM-IH shareholders endorse 90% acquisition in Mopani

Shareholders in ZCCM-IH have overwhelmingly supported its acquisition of a 90% stake in Mopani Copper Mines (MCM).

Glencore agreed the sale of its majority stake in Mopani to ZCCM-IH in a $1.5 billion deal, the miner and trader said in January.

ZCCM-IH said in a statement that the extraordinary general meeting vote on the resolution was the last condition towards the completion of the transaction and ZCCM-IH now holds 100% ownership of Mopani.

The deal is funded by borrowings from Carlisa Investments Corp – a British Virgin Islands-based company through which Glencore holds its stake – and other members of the Glencore group.

ZCCM-IH Chief Executive Mabvuto Chipata said with increased ownership, ZCCM-IH would now be an active participant in the global industry as copper becomes a critical metal.

“Mopani will repay the remaining debt of $1.5 billion from its own cashflows and the repayment is expected to happen well within the remaining life of mine,” Mr. Chipata said.

ZCCM-IH has said it expects to find a new investor for Mopani by the end of the year as it looks to boost copper output from a little more than 34,000 tonnes to 150,000 tonnes.

Glencore said in a separate statement it would continue to retain offtake rights in respect of Mopani’s production.

“The Board is pleased to confirm that all the Conditions Precedent to the Transaction have now been satisfied, allowing for the completion of the Transaction on 31 March 2021. ZCCM-IH is now the holder of 100% of the issued shares in Mopani, transforming the Company from an investment company to owning and operating a multi-billion-dollar mining asset in Zambia. The Board looks forward to providing Shareholders with further updates on Mopani in the coming months,” the statement read.

New Cyber law goes to Court

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New Cyber law goes to Court

Five Civil Society Organisations have petitioned the High Court for a declaration that various provisions of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act be declared unconstitutional and struck off the statute books.

The five organisations include Alliance for Community Action, Bloggers of Zambia, Chapter One Foundation, GEARS Initiative Zambia and Peoples’ Action for Accountability and Good Governance in Zambia.

Chapter One Foundation Executive Director Linda Kasonde said on behalf of the CSOs that the passing of the Cyber Security and Crimes Act is the culmination of veiled attempts by state actors and government officials to intimidate and even prosecute members of the public who air their opinions on online platforms.

Ms Kasonde says while it is imperative to ensure the safety of the public against cyber security threats, it must always be balanced with the right to freedom of expression and the need to maintain the right to privacy.

Ms Kasonde has maintained that these provisions are unjustifiable in a democratic state and unconstitutional but hopes that the court will give generous interpretation to the rights enshrined in the Constitution which apply without limitation in the cyber space.

Below is the full statement

JOINT CSO PRESS STATEMENT DATED 1ST APRIL 2021 ON THE CYBER SECURITY AND CYBER CRIMES ACT NO 2 OF 2021

On the 23rd March 2021 the President of the Republic of Zambia assented into law the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act No 2 of 2021.

The passing of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act is the culmination of several thinly veiled attempts by state actors and government officials to intimidate and even prosecute members of the public who air their opinions on online platforms.

We, the undersigned civil society organisations, have petitioned the High Court for a declaration that various provisions of the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act be declared unconstitutional and struck off the statute books.

Prior to its being passed into law we, and many others, bemoaned the lack of engagement and/or consultation of NGOs, CSOs and other stakeholders in the drafting processes. We further attempted to engage the legislature to highlight the fact that, while it is imperative to ensure the safety of the public at large against cyber security threats, this must invariably be balanced with the right to freedom of expression and the need to maintain the right to privacy enjoyed by all members of the public.

Despite several statements highlighting specific provisions of the Bill which threatened to unjustifiably limit constitutionally guaranteed rights, these provisions have been maintained and are now law. While the Act contains progressive provisions particularly with regard to the cyber security of children, there are several provisions that have the potential to facilitate and even enhance the wanton surveillance and censorship of members of public through interception of communications. These provisions are unjustifiable in a democratic state and unconstitutional.

In a shrinking civic space, social media platforms and other online media present alternative platforms for members of the public to air their views on matters of public interest and gather virtually to share such views without the inhibitions of the much-abused Public Order Act. This platform has become even more important as the country and the world at large grapples with the Covid-19 pandemic and the regulations it necessitated. The Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act threatens this use of the cyber space.

It is our hope that the court will give generous interpretation to the rights enshrined in the Constitution which we believe apply without limitation in the cyber space.

Linda Kasonde
Executive Director, Chapter One Foundation

Signed for and on behalf of the following CSOs:

Alliance for Community Action
Bloggers of Zambia
Chapter One Foundation
GEARS Initiative Zambia
Peoples’ Action for Accountability and Good Governance in Zambia

Former BoZ Governor Denny Kalyalya lands top World Bank post

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Former BoZ Governor Denny Kalyalya lands top World Bank post

Donor and borrower country representatives of the International Development Association (IDA) have selected Zambia’s Dr. Denny Kalyalya as the Independent Co-Chair of IDA’s twentieth replenishment (IDA20), which will launch later this month.

In this role, Dr. Kalyalya will champion stronger policy and financial support for IDA20 at political and other stakeholder levels across IDA donor and borrower countries.

Dr. Kalyalya will co-chair the IDA20 Replenishment process with Axel van Trotsenburg, the World Bank’s Managing Director of Operations.

Since IDA18, IDA replenishment meetings have had two co-chairs, comprising an independent eminent personality with adequate knowledge of Multilateral Development Banks, and a high-level representative of the World Bank Group appointed by the President of the institution.

An economist, Dr. Kalyalya has experience at the World Bank Group having served as an Executive Director from 2012 to 2014 and as an Alternate Executive Director from 2010 to 2012, representing Africa Group One Constituency of 22 countries.

Until December 2019, he also served as a Borrower Representative for IDA18 and IDA19.

Since June 2019, he has been serving as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of the African Export and Import Bank.

A Zambian national, Dr. Kalyalya’s experience includes serving as the Governor and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bank of Zambia between 2015 and 2020, having earlier been Deputy Governor responsible for operations.

He has also served on a number of high-level, national, regional and international committees.

Dr. Kalyalya holds a PhD (Economics) and an MA (Economics) from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

He also holds an MA and a BA (Economics) from the University of Zambia.

Background:

In February 2021, IDA donor and borrower country representatives agreed to advance IDA20 by one year, and shorten the IDA19 cycle to two years, due to pressures from the COVID-19 crisis. IDA19 will now cover July 2020 – June 2022, while IDA20 will cover July 2022 – June 2025.

The IDA20 replenishment process presents an opportunity to focus on building back better from the crisis and enhancing the existing IDA policy framework to support the transition to a green, resilient, and inclusive future. Replenishment discussions and negotiations for IDA20 will run from April to December 2021.

IDA is one of the largest sources of funding for fighting extreme poverty in the world’s poorest countries.

IDA provides zero- or low-interest loans and grants to countries for projects and programs that boost economic growth, build resilience, and improve the lives of poor people around the world.

Since 1960, IDA has provided about $422 billion for investments in 114 countries. As an institution of the World Bank Group, IDA combines global expertise with an exclusive focus on reducing poverty and boosting prosperity in the world’s poorest countries.

EIU Report In fact said that PF Cannot win a Free and Fair Election

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EIU Report In fact said that PF Cannot win a Free and Fair Election

By Anthony Bwalya UPND Presidential Spokesperson

Over the past few days, the digital space has been awash with tonnes of misinformation by a poorly read, poorly informed Patriotic Front (PF) media team; purporting that the latest country report by the Economists Intelligence Unit (EIU) has declared the PF and President Edgar Lungu likely victors in the August 12 General Election.

Let me state from the onset, that the purported election victory by the PF is CONDITIONAL on a set of diabolical set of circumstances falling into place, circumstances which in effect would constitute an assault on Zambia’s democracy by the PF and its leadership, effectively rendering the results of the August polls a mockery to our collective intelligence.

Here is a list of critical insights contained in the March 30 2021 report by the EIU, insights conveniently and foolishly overlooked by the regime to claim that election victory is guaranteed in their favour when Zambians head to the polls this August.

INSIGHT #1

Under the PF regime, Zambia’s democracy index is down from 5.09 to 4.86, designated from flawed democracy to hybrid regime. This means that we are no longer a recognized democracy, but a cross between a democracy and an authoritarian regime, like Benin, Uganda, Thailand.

A further downgrade of Zambia’s democracy rating is expected should President Lungu succeed in clinging on to power.

INSIGHT #2

President incumbent of the PF is designated as an authoritarian leader in the report.

I do not need to explain what this means.

INSIGHT #3

The policy focus of the PF regime to hinge on short-term, populist features to endear the masses into keeping the regime in power. This is why we have seen and overflow of money in empowerment, social cash transfer and FISP.

All this careless splashing of cash will soon be back to bite all of us.

INSIGHT #4

The report proposes or points to a possible Chinese takeover of state assets as part of a possible Chinese debt restructuring program – this could further escalate anti – Chinese sentiments in our country.

We have always warned about the lack of transparency around the quantum and conditions around Chinese debt. We think that it is this lack of detail and transparency from the regime that is escalating fears.

INSIGHT #5

Zambians must be braced for a painful austerity ahead. This could and usually means cuts may be made to critical public services – no proper funding for healthcare, education, while salaries for civil servants may be expected to become more erratic.

Already, many council workers go for several months without being laid salaries, while the widespread degeneration in critical public services was witnessed in the dying years of the UNIP regime.

INSIGHT #6

Zambia has now been cut off from external funds thanks to poor infrastructure program implementation by the PF.

We always warned that the cost of infrastructure was unsustainable, especially that this was funded by very expensive debt money.

Zambia was officially cut off from external borrowing the moment we decided we will not make Eurobond coupon payments because the PF wanted to focus on splashing money.

INSIGHT #7

Decision to abolish 2005 voters’ register seen to likely lead to the registration of more voters in ruling party strongholds than opposition ones.

We all saw what happened during the exercise to issue NRCs and voters cards, and there are numbers to back up our initial fears.

INSIGHT #8

Zambia’s functioning of governments score at 2.93, reflecting PF corruption and mismanagement of the economy and public finances, including weakening of independence of BOZ by abrupt changes in governors.

This killed confidence in the Central Bank’s ability to steer an objective monetary policy. Bad for business.

INSIGHT #9

The EIU projects that the election will neither be free nor fair as PF will be forced to rely more on Zambia’s partisan security forces to aggressively narrow the political space for the opposition.

We have seen an increasing appetite by the police to use a heavy hand when dealing with opposition political parties- arbitrary arrests, detentions and citizens being killed by police bullets.

Now, ALL this is contained in the same EIU Report the PF are using to claim victory come August.

The report is a public document and I urge people to read it and understand full well the path to nowhere the PF have set us onto.

 

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