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President Joe Biden Withdraws from 2024 Presidential Race

Chief Editor
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President Joe Biden Withdraws from 2024 Presidential Race

In a sigificant turn of events, U.S. President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race on Sunday, ending his bid for reelection just four months before the election. The decision follows a contentious debate with Republican candidate Donald Trump, which raised significant doubts about Biden’s fitness for office.

During the June 27 debate, the 81-year-old president often trailed off and failed to address the former president’s numerous falsehoods. This performance led to escalating pressure from Biden’s Democratic allies to step aside.

President Biden stated that his decision “is in the best interest of my party and the country.” Despite withdrawing from the race, he plans to serve out the remainder of his term, which concludes at noon ET on January 20, 2025.

President Biden has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the new Democratic nominee. The move comes as Americans prepare to head to the polls on November 5, 2024.

Biden’s withdrawal marks a significant moment in the 2024 election cycle, as the Democratic Party looks to regroup and rally behind a new candidate in the face of a challenging campaign season.

Below is the Full Statement released on X

JOSEPH R. BIDEN, JR. July 21, 2024

My Fellow Americans, Over the past three and a half years, we have made great progress as a Nation.

Today, America has the strongest economy in the world. We’ve made historic investments in rebuilding our Nation, in lowering prescription drug costs for seniors, and in expanding affordable health care to a record number of Americans. We’ve provided critically needed care to a million veterans exposed to toxic substances. Passed the first gun safety law in 30 years. Appointed the first African American woman to the Supreme Court. And passed the most significant climate legislation in the history of the world. America has never been better positioned to lead than we are today.

I know none of this could have been done without you, the American people. Together, we overcame a once in a century pandemic and the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. We’ve protected and preserved our Democracy. And we’ve revitalized and strengthened our alliances around the world.

It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as your President. And while it has been my intention to seek reelection, I believe it is in the best interest of my party and the country for me to stand down and to focus solely on fulfilling my duties as President for the remainder of my term.

I will speak to the Nation later this week in more detail about my decision.

For now, let me express my deepest gratitude to all those who have worked so hard to see me reelected. I want to thank Vice President Kamala Harris for being an extraordinary partner in all this work. And let me express my heartfelt appreciation to the American people for the faith and trust you have placed in me.

I believe today what I always have: that there is nothing America can’t do – when we do it together. We just have to remember we are the United States of America.

Musa Mwenye speaks out-Expresses Gratitude

Lusaka Times Editor
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Musa Mwenye speaks out-Expresses Gratitude

Lusaka, Zambia – Former Chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), Musa Mwenye, has expressed his gratitude to the people of Zambia and the President of the Republic for the opportunity to serve in his role. During his departure speech, Mwenye, who held the position for two years, emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in public office.

“I am grateful to the people and the President of the Republic of Zambia for the opportunity to have served as Chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC),” Mwenye stated.

Upon taking office, Mwenye adhered to the legal requirement to declare his assets. Today, despite the absence of a legal obligation to do so upon leaving office, he voluntarily declared his assets to the Learned Chief Justice. This move, he believes, sets a standard for transparency that all public officials should follow.

“All of us who serve in public office must be transparent in our financial dealings and willing to declare our assets and explain how we acquired what we have,” Mwenye urged. “I encourage all those in public office today, who have not done so, to do that in the interest of transparency, integrity, and accountability.”

Mwenye reflected on his tenure, highlighting the challenges faced by the ACC board, which he described as composed of individuals with integrity. Despite being sidelined and denied access to information on ongoing investigations and prosecutions for a full year, the board maintained internal pressure for accountability.

“Legally, the board of the ACC has no powers to arrest anyone; that power lies with the Director General. Equally, the board has no legal powers to hire and fire the Director General – that power lies elsewhere,” he explained.

Mwenye stressed the necessity of addressing corruption in all forms, regardless of when it occurred. He called for investigating and prosecuting corrupt activities both from past regimes and within the current government.

“We cannot fight corruption unless we fight all corruption – past, present, and future. Almost three years down the line, we should have seen some government officials arrested and dismissed,” Mwenye said, noting that selective enforcement of anti-corruption measures had been a point of contention.

He also criticized successive governments for manipulating the ACC’s operations by appointing a strong board for appearances while ensuring the management was compliant.

“I am proud that the board I served refused to be intimidated, remained in position, and demanded internally and publicly that the right thing be done,” Mwenye declared. “Nobody can claim ignorance over these matters I have highlighted.”

Mwenye extended his gratitude to the ACC’s rank and file for their dedication under difficult conditions, and to his fellow board members, including former Vice Chairperson Mrs. Irene Chongo-Lamba and former Commissioners Dr. O’brien Kaaba and Dr. Tommy Namitondo, for their unity, integrity, and courage. He also acknowledged newly appointed board member Mr. Jack Kalala, with whom he had limited interaction due to the board’s dissolution.

“I thank you all. It was an honor,” Mwenye concluded, confident that history would judge their efforts favorably.

First Lady’s Office Donates Items To Bunda Bunda School

Chief Editor
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First Lady’s Office Donates Items To Bunda Bunda School

The First lady’s Office has donated a wheelchair to a 15 year old girl, Grace Kaluwani, a grade 6 pupil at Bundabunda Primary School in Musebo village of Chongwe District who has been struggling to get to school using a wooden tricycle.
This follows an appeal made by a concerned citizen residing in the same area, Emmanuel Mubita to the First lady Mutinta Hichilema to assist Ms Kaluwaniwith a wheelchair as she has been struggling to get to school.

The First Lady’s office in partnership with Merck Foundation also donated assorted items such as 6000 exercise books, stationary, 1, 700 school bags and 3,334 story books to the school.Technical Advisor to the First Lady,Shelly Tayali who represented the Mrs Mutinta Hichilema stated that the donation is expected to assist pupils at the school who do not have access to the necessary school materials.

Bundabunda Primary School pupils show off the books donated by the office of the First Lady

Ms Tayali said it is important for every child to access education as it is among the best ways to better their lives and secure their future.She implored parents in the area to take advantage of the free education policy implemented by the government and enrol their children in school.

“We believe education is a great equaliser and no one must be left behind,” MsTayali said.Ms Tayali also called on members of the community in the area to work with the office of the First Lady to curb child marriages.She encouraged members of staff at Bundabunda Primary School to select a day in each term of the school calendar which will be dedicated towards advocacy on ending child marriages.

Ms Tayali further thanked Mr Mubita for appealing to the first lady to assist Grace Kaluwani adding that the act is a demonstration of his compassion for the child.

Meanwhile, Chongwe District Education Board Secretary, Joseph Chanda thanked the Office of the First Lady for the donation.
Mr Chanda stated that the materials donated to the pupils will go a long way in improving learner performance at the school .
He assured officers from the Office of the First lady that the donated items will be used for their intended purpose.

And Grace Kaluwani who received a new wheelchair thanked Mrs Hichilema for coming to her aid through the gesture.
Ms Kaluwani indicated that she has been struggling to get to school using a wooden tricycle for some time.

“I would like to thank the First Lady,Mutinta Hichilema for helping me with a wheelchair which I really needed because it was very difficult for me to move to school using my old tricycle”, Ms Kaluwani said.

Rev. Maureen Chileshe Shonga: An Inspirational Beacon of Faith and Determination

Chief Editor
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Rev. Maureen Chileshe Shonga: An Inspirational Beacon of Faith and Determination

Rev Shonga

Reverend-Evangelist Maureen Chileshe Shonga stands as a testament to the power of faith and action. Despite using a wheelchair, Rev. Shonga has achieved remarkable success as a farmer and spiritual leader, embodying the principle that true faith is demonstrated through deeds.

Rev. Shonga recently showcased her impressive cabbage project, reminding everyone that disability is not an inability. Her dedication to farming has not only provided for her own needs but has also served as a powerful example of resilience and determination.

In her dual roles, Rev. Shonga has profoundly impacted countless lives. As a spiritual leader, she teaches the word of God, offering spiritual guidance and support. Simultaneously, her practical farming skills empower individuals to cultivate their own food, promoting self-sufficiency and resilience within the community.

Her unwavering spirit continues to inspire many, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and trust in their abilities, regardless of their circumstances. Rev. Shonga’s story is a shining beacon of hope and motivation, proving that with faith and determination, anything is possible.

Towards an Africa-Caribbean Free Trade Agreement: Pathway to Self-Determination

Chief Editor
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Towards an Africa-Caribbean Free Trade Agreement: Pathway to Self-Determination

By Albert M.Muchanga

At the First the Africa-Caribbean Forum, we met in September, 2022 in Bridgetown Barbados under the tag line: One People One Destiny: Uniting and Reimagining our Future.During that Forum, we had a session on building Africa-Caribbean value chains for exports with an added call for us to imagine a Caribbean-Africa Free Trade Area Agreement.That discussion was coming against a background of the launch of a study by the International Trade Centre entitled: Expanding African-Caribbean Trade.

I have been advised that that study will now be expanded under the title: Tapping into Afri-Caribbean Export Potential through Promoting Value Chains.The first study showed that trade exchanges between the Caribbean and African regions were very low.
They are less than one percent of their respective global totals.The 2022 study also brought out the potentials of trade flows between the two regions.

Travel, transport and business services have huge scope for export growth to Africa by Caribbean countries. On the other hand, Africa has huge scope in agribusiness, fertilizers and health products exports to the Caribbean countries.Against this background, the study further noted that there was potential to increase trade flows between the two regions by as much as 25 percent or US$1.8 billion, within five years, that is, between 2023 and 2028.

However, the initial study noted that there were trade barriers that needed to be overcome in order to expand trade flows between the two regions. Tariffs average around 28 percent in some sectors. There are non-tariff barriers.As the African Export Import Bank and the International Trade Centre prepare to commission the second study, there is an on-going project under the heading: Strengthening Afri-Caribbean Trade and Investment Initiative aimed at mobilizing the private sectors of the two regions to drive the broadening of the commodity composition of the trade exchanges between the two regions which are currently
concentrated in a narrow range of commodities and countries as well as increasing the trade values.

It is also important to point out at this stage that Jamaica has signed Bilateral Investment Treaties with Egypt, Nigeria and Zimbabwe but none of them is in operation.Barbados signed a similar treaty with Mauritius in 2004 and it is in operation. On the other hand, the Bilateral Investment Treaty signed between Barbados and Ghana in 2008 is not yet in force.

At this point, let me also state that at the Bridgetown Forum, a free trade agreement between the two regions was seen as a lever in reducing trade barriers and expanding inter-regional trade.This shows that increasing trade flows between the two regions, even before we enter into a free trade agreement, will require the involvement of Member States through the African Union and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

Let me now turn to the issue of an African Caribbean Free Trade Agreement.

It is now two years since the Bridgetown meeting. And the matter is still very much alive as evidenced by the fact that it is a point of interrogation during the on-going meetings of the Annual Meetings of the African Export Bank.This demonstrates that the zeal to move in this direction is there. This should be complemented with pragmatism, courage as well as hard and smart work for us to attain the desired destiny. Equally important, buy-in from all stakeholders is important.

CARICOM is a step ahead as they now move towards a CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).At the bilateral level, it is also important for countries of the Caribbean and African regions to broaden and deepen diplomatic relations among themselves. Attendant to this would be facilitation direct flights between Africa and the Caribbean as well as issuance of visas on arrival as has been the case so far, and ultimately, visa-free travel by the people of the regions.

The issue of payment and settlement, another key pre-requisite is being met through the on-going study on the possible extension of the Pan African Payment and Settlement System, initially developed to facilitate intra-African trade flows under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), to the Caribbean region.

Similarly, the issue of trade finance is being addressed through the extension of the operations of the African Export Bank to the Caribbean region. That we are meeting in the Caribbean reflects the importance and value attached to the shareholding of the Caribbean countries in the African Export Import Bank.

Trade information is also important in developing trade relations between Africa and the Caribbean. We have an African Trade Observatory which has among others, windows on intra African trade and trade between Africa and the rest of the world. In addition, we have the Intra-African Trade Fair.

As stated in 2022, the major issue before us for the two regions to have a free trade agreement is for each of the two regions to have a common external tariff.

As earlier stated, CARICOM is well ahead. It is an economic union with a common external tariff.CARICOM is now working at a higher level of economic integration by developing a Single Market and Economy.

However, the African Union is still at the level of a free trade area through the African Continental Free Trade Area. We are hence not yet an economic union. Over time, we will move to a customs union/common market. In this connection, a readiness assessment towards an African Union/Customs Union has been completed.

We are now taking steps to bring the final draft report of the readiness assessment to senior experts and Ministers responsible for economic integration by November this year and thereafter, present the recommendations to the Assembly of Heads of State and Government in February next year.

Creating an African Customs Union/Common Market would enable the African Union emerge as an economic union with the mandate and capacity to enter into free trade agreements with regional economic integration organizations like CARICOM, the European Union and/or countries.

Removing Technical Barriers to Trade (TBTs) will also be a key component of moving towards an African Caribbean Free Trade Area. On the African side, we will be rolling out in November this year, the Made in Africa Guide. We shall share the guide with the CARICOM secretariat when it is rolled out.

Let me briefly touch on three key issues, which are building blocks on the African side, in positioning ourselves to create a free trade area with the Caribbean region.These are credit rating; a single African currency and high and sustained rates of economic growth.We are working with the African Peer Review Mechanism and the African Development Bank to
perationalise the African Credit Rating Agency.

It will contribute to both the development of a Pan African capital market as well providing second opinions on credit ratings on African economies made by the traditional credit rating agencies. In this way, we shall remove the subjectivity which is currently associated with ratings on African economies by these agencies.

Furthermore, we are working with the European Union, G7 and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, to establish, before the end of this year, the African Virtual Investment Platform, which, will, among others, develop an information and data base which can contribute to improving Africa’s external credit ratings.I will also add other pertinent issues that can greatly improve Africa’s credit rating and deeper economic integration.

The first one is the macroeconomic convergence criteria under the African Monetary Cooperation Program. Through it, each African country is expected to reach the following benchmarks of moving towards macroeconomic convergence: maximum threshold of seven percent inflation; overall deficit of five percent of Gross Domestic Product; Less than five percent Central Bank credit to government; a minimum of three months import cover as a ratio of external reserves; and, government debt not
exceeding 65 percent of each country’s gross domestic product.

With these reforms, African countries can emerge stronger. As part of the process of macroeconomic convergence, we are in the process of creating an African Monetary Institute to oversee implementation of the macroeconomic convergence criteria. Once converge is attained, the African Monetary Institute will transform into the African Central Bank and one of its primary tasks will be to design and operate an African single currency. This will greatly increase Intra African trade and reduce risk premiums in credit ratings.

The second one is high and sustained economic growth. We are collaborating with the African Development Bank and AUDA-NEPAD on drafting a strategic framework on key actions to achieve inclusive growth and sustainable development in Africa. The strategic focus, as Professor Jeffrey Sachs pointed recently will be to position African countries attain and sustain seven to 10 percent annual growth rates over a period of 40-50 years as well as increase investments as a proportion of GDP.

As part of this study, there will be a continental econometric framework as well as country specific strategic frameworks for those countries that will request them.A growing and converging African economy will be well positioned to move towards establishing an African Caribbean Free Trade Area.

Development is a Do It Yourself process (DIY). It is in this respect right to see a free trade agreement
between our two regions as a pathway to self-determination.

Against this background, our governments, private sectors, financial institutions, women, youth,academia, labour, civil society and even ordinary citizens have the collective task of leveraging trade as an engine of the inclusive growth and sustainable development of our two regions.

The author is African Union Commissioner for Economic Development Trade Tourism Industry and Minerals

ZESCO Initiates Feasibility Study to Boost Power Generation

Chief Editor
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ZESCO Initiates Feasibility Study to Boost Power Generation

ZESCO Limited is conducting a feasibility study to explore the potential of using available water resources to enhance power generation capabilities.

Clement Siame, Deputy Director of the Kafue River Basin, announced that a consultant has been engaged to maximize water retention in the Itezhi Tezhi Dam. Mr. Siame explained that the Itezhi Tezhi Lake has been experiencing low water levels due to the impact of climate change. The lake is crucial as it supplies water for electricity generation at three power stations along the Kafue River Basin.

Mr. Siame made these remarks while leading a team of ZESCO officials and over 20 Members of Parliament on a familiarization tour of the Itezhi Tezhi power station in Southern Province. He emphasized that ZESCO is actively exploring alternative measures to ensure a continuous supply of electricity despite reduced water levels.

Itezhi Tezhi Member of Parliament, Twaambo Mutinta, praised the government for its proactive measures to address the power challenges facing the country.

Living on the Edge: The Impact of Power Outages on Dialysis Patients

Chief Editor
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Living on the Edge: The Impact of Power Outages on Dialysis Patients

Living with a chronic illness often presents unique challenges, but for those on dialysis, the struggle is compounded by external factors beyond their control. One patient’s account sheds light on the critical issues faced by individuals reliant on dialysis in the face of the unpredictable ZESCO power outages. This story highlights not only the physical and emotional toll of dialysis but also the urgent need for stable and reliable infrastructure to support life-saving medical treatments.

By Albert Khondowe

I woke up one day,felt my face so heavy such that I couldn’t even move my head sideways .

I made a post about how these powercuts have really affected us,those on dialysis a few days if not a wedk ago. In that post i tagged Hakainde Hichilema and Zesco Limited which got alot of mixed emotions.

My complaint was basically that these power outages are too long and theres no specific time table that is being followed as at now,powercut times change almost everyday,for example yesterday power cut from 16hrs to 7hrs today,is that reasonable??

So here is the thing and why ill keep on complaining, am supposed to start my dialysis on the machine around 19hrs untill the next day for about 9 to 14 hours whilst am a sleep,but how does that happen when I do not know what time exactly power will cut or what time it will be restored? Worse enough if it cuts in the middle of my session it means I have wasted my consumables of which are usually out of stock,which puts me at another disadvantage.

Attached here are pictures of what I have to go through because of insufficient dialysis and this is not only me but alot of us that have been affected by these long hour and unstable powercuts.

Because of too much fluids in the body due to insufficient dialysis,I will either wake up with a swollen body which goes away after sometime, but the worst I have had to endure are those sore on my ankles,my feet were swollen and eventually those sore came about,extremely painful and very stubborn. I have spent months of pain ,antibiotics and taking very strong painkiller just so i could get relief. Many of us dont even remember the last time we put on shoes due to our medical conditions but thats okay, what is definitely not okay is that fact that these powercuts cant be regulated at all.

Some people went as far as asking me if I wanted the President to go and increase the water levels in Kariba,which for me was a clear indication that people did not understand that we have accepted the loadshedding but with hope that it can be done better by giving us a fixed timetable as well as reducing the number of hours. This I personally believe can be done!!

They say mavuto yasiyana which is very true but i think for us that rely on this power to stay alive,something must really be done better.

I speak on behalf of myself and all my friends who need this power to stay alive and not just for charging phones and lighting.

leg ulcers

LAZ clears George Kunda’s legal firm over the Kalenga complaint

Chief Editor
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LAZ clears George Kunda’s legal firm over the Kalenga complaint

The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) Legal Practitioners’ Committee has dismissed a complaint of alleged unethical behavior brought by the Kalenga Family against George Kunda & Company and Mrs. Irene Mwezi Kunda SC in a running legal dispute over Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited.

The Committee also noted that the late Hon. Kalenga was not a shareholder in Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited, though he was a director of the company.

The Committee also noted that he was, however, the majority shareholder and Director in Zambia Modern Enterprises Limited, which in turn was a shareholder in Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited.

“The documents presented to the Committee by the complainants do not show where any of them are listed as Directors of the company,” read the Ruling.

“The Complainants state that they are Administrators of the Estate of the late Hon Kalenga, though no appointing documents were presented to the committee, neither were any documents to show that the Complainants were ever directors of Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited,” read the Ruling.

“It is therefore difficult to see how a conflict of interest arose when the practitioner represented Mr. Sadhu, who, as she said, was the only official representative of the company that she dealt with.”

Below is the Law Association of Zambia, Legal Practitioners’ Committee Ruling;

LAZ DECISION

“We are thankful to the parties for their submissions both written and oral, and have taken note of what has been presented before us.”

“Although going through the written submissions, especially from the Complainants, a lot of allegations have been made against the Practitioner, the focus of the Committee is only restricted to the allegations of conflict of interest on the part of the Practitioner.”

“These allegations are that the Practitioner found herself in a conflict position because she represented Mr. Sadhu and his family in a case where the complainants had sued the same Sadhu in court.”

“They argue that because the Practitioner’s firm represented Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited, she should not have acted for the Sadhus, their contention lies with the fact that the Practitioner’s prior representation of Sun Pharmaceuticals, a company in which the Sadhu family and the Late Hon. John Kalenga held significant interests, created a conflict-of-interest situation.”

“And that when the Administrators of the Estate of the late Hon Kalenga initiated legal proceedings against Mr. Sadhu and his family, the Practitioner should not have represented them.”

“In determining whether there exists or existed a conflict of interest on the part of the Practitioner, it is important to ascertain what the position of the parties was in Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited.”

“From the records availed to the Committee by the Complainants, and particularly the exhibit marked K6, it is noticed that the Directors of Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited were among others Mr. Sadhu and the late Hon. Kalenga.”

“The shareholders of the same company were:

  1. Zambian Modern Enterprises Limited
  2. Padley & Venables (C.A) Limited
  3. Sunvest Limited Zambia.”

“From this, the Committee noted that the late Hon. Kalenga was not a shareholder in Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited, though he was a director in the company.”

“He was, however, the majority shareholder and Director in Zambia Modern Enterprises Limited, which in turn was a shareholder in Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited.”

“The Complainants state that they are Administrators of the Estate of the late Hon Kalenga, though no appointing documents were presented to the committee, neither were any documents to show that the Complainants were ever directors of Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited.”

“The Committee noted that it is difficult to establish a nexus between the Complainants and the company called Sun Pharmaceuticals Limited. It is not in dispute that the late Hon. Kalenga was a director in the said company, but the same cannot be said about the complainants.”

“The documents presented to the Committee by the complainants do not show where any of them are listed as Directors of the company. It is, therefore, difficult to see how a conflict of interest arose when the practitioner represented Mr. Sadhu, who, as she said, was the only official representative of the company that she dealt with.”

“It is thus the conclusion of this Committee that the complaint against the practitioner has not been proved, and it is therefore dismissed.”

President Hichilema Transfers Energy Minister

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Transfers Energy Minister

President Hakainde Hichilema has transferred honorable Peter C.Kapala,MP to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock and honorable Makozo Chikote MP to the Ministry of Energy with immediate effect.

The President implored and directed the Ministers to discharge their functions with due diligence in their new portfolios.
Thus is according to a statement released to the media by Clayson Hamasaka ,Chief Communications Specialist at State House.

Government Suspends Proposed Employment Code Act Amendments

Chief Editor
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Government Suspends Proposed Employment Code Act Amendments

The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has withdrawn and suspended the amendment of the Employment Code Act number 3 of 2019. Labour Minister Brenda Tambatamba announced that the Ministry has noted the broader interest generated across different sections of society by the proposed amendments.

Ms Tambatamba stated that, as a listening government, the UPND and its alliance partners have decided to withdraw the proposed amendments from the Ministry of Justice and suspend consultations until further notice.

This decision underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that any legislative changes reflect the interests and concerns of all stakeholders.

Ms. Tambatamba emphasized that the government remains dedicated to promoting a decent work agenda for all workers. This commitment is anchored on a robust, sound, and sustainable economic transformation agenda.

The suspension of the amendments will allow for further dialogue and consideration to ensure that the Employment Code Act serves the best interests of both workers and employers in Zambia.

Update on the Offloading of 61 Containers of Medicines

Chief Editor
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Update on the Offloading of 61 Containers of Medicines

25 out of the 61 containers of medicines marooned at the J&J depot in Makeni have been successfully transported and offloaded at the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) central warehouse in Lusaka. This progress follows the intervention by the Government through the Ministry of Health, compelling the transporter to release the consignment.

The movement of these containers, carrying assorted health commodities, began on Saturday, 14th July 2024. ZAMMSA anticipates completing the offloading exercise by next week Friday, 26th July 2024.

This consignment is part of a Government-to-Government bulk procurement of medicines and medical supplies valued at $24 million from the Arab Republic of Egypt. Of the 61 containers, 23 contain Intravenous (IV) Fluids and Syringes, which arrived between January and April 2024, while the remaining 38 containers, carrying assorted essential medicines, arrived in June 2024. Notably, the earliest expiry date for all the commodities is July 2026, and no wastage has been recorded so far.

ZAMMSA is closely collaborating with the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA) to ensure the safety and efficacy of all commodities. All products will undergo thorough quality assurance tests before distribution to health facilities, guaranteeing the safety of the Zambian people.

Sustainable Development at Risk:The Menace of Corruption

Chief Editor
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Sustainable Development at Risk:The Menace of Corruption

What is Corruption?

Corruption is the abuse of public or corporate office for personal gain. Corruption occurs in all countries and has existed throughout human history.

How Does Corruption Affect Society?

The effect that corruption has on society is the following:

  • Lower levels of economic growth
  • Higher rates of poverty
  • Less investment
  • Lower public policy effectiveness
  • Increased pollution and natural resource depletion
  • Poorer infrastructure
  • Resource misallocation
  • Concentration of wealth in the hands of a few

Reduction of corruption is fundamental to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

What are the Types of Corruption?

Corruption occurs at different scales:

  • Petty Corruption – This occurs at the implementation stage of public services when public officials interact with the public, for example in registration offices and police stations.
  • Grand Corruption – This occurs at the highest levels of government and requires significant subversion of the political, legal, and economic systems. It exists where there is inadequate policing of corruption and the state is authoritarian in nature.
  • Systemic Corruption – A situation when corruption is an integral part of a state’s economic, social, and political system, and where most people have no alternatives to dealing with corrupt officials.
    Systemic corruption thrives where the following exist:
  • Lack of transparency
  • Low pay and poverty
  • Discretionary powers
  • A culture of impunity

Corruption can be separated into two forms:

  • Legal corruption – This is corruption that is considered within the limits of the law. It can be maintained by the capture of the state by the interests of a well-connected elite. It has the same undesirable effects as illegal corruption.
  • Illegal corruption – This is corruption that is against the laws of the nation and should normally be prosecuted in a court of law.
    Fighting Corruption
    Three aspects have been identified that are crucial in the successful fight against corruption:

Institution strengthening
Corruption can only be fought and controlled by strengthening institutions and upholding the rule of law. Strengthening the integrity, openness, and credibility of government institutions and the policy-making process should be a priority for the government.
Institution strengthening includes:

Accountability
Transparency
Simplification of operations to reduce errors and opportunities to conceal corruption
Fundamental reforms to change attitudes and beliefs of those that work in the institutions
Anti-corruption agencies must command the respect of the public and be credible, transparent, and fearless. They must be subject to review by the media and civil society and have political independence.

National anti-corruption strategy
This shall promote the participation of society and reflect the principles of the rule of law, proper management of public affairs and public property, integrity, transparency, and accountability. It needs to be incorporated within the broader national development initiatives.

Political will and leadership
This is essential for sending a clear signal that there is a commitment to challenge corruption.

Leaders need to commit time, effort, and political capital to achieve change.
The emergence of transformational leadership – Through the strength of their vision and personality, transformational leaders are able to inspire followers to change expectations, perceptions, and motivations to work towards common goals. This is based on the leader’s ability to make change through example and articulation of an energizing vision and challenging goals. Transformational leaders act for the common good and against self-interest.
Nothing matters more than quality leadership.

Who are the Stakeholders?

The People of Zambia
The Executive
The Judiciary
The Legislature
The Police Service
Civil Servants
The Anti-Corruption Commission
The Media
Civic Organisations
Recommendations and Timescales for Implementation of Anti-Corruption Policies

  1. Create true and meaningful independence of the Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary branches of government as a means of limiting grand corruption. This will result in a reduction of Executive power. (5 years)
  2. Make independent of the Executive the appointing authority for Judges, Civil Servants, Director of Public Prosecutions, Anti-Corruption Commission, Auditor General. (5 years)
  3. Increase transparency and accountability in government institutions e.g., of government officials’ emoluments and declaration of assets. (1 year)
  4. Provide strong and visible leadership by the Executive against corruption. (1 year)
  5. Remove the Executive from direct operations of ministries and retain only the policy formation function under direct control of the Executive. (1 year)
  6. Use digital technology techniques to prevent corruption. (2 years)
  7. Give results-based financial incentives for Anti-Corruption Commission officials to reduce corruption. (2 years)
  8. Establish a whistleblowing hotline for corruption reporting with financial incentives to whistleblowers. (1 year)

By Dr. Roy Moobola

President Hichilema Commissions 459 ZNS Officers

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President Hichilema Commissions 459 ZNS Officers

President Hakainde Hichilema has today commissioned 459 officers with over 160 females under the Zambia National Service (ZNS) intake 05 of 2023, the largest intake in the history of the service.
Speaking during the commissioning parade held at ZNS training school in Kafue, President Hichilema said the commissioning is a testament of the Government’s commitment to provide employment to the Zambian youths.
President Hichilema stated that the Zambian Government is intentional about creating the largest opportunity for the youths in the country.
He says that the massive recruitments that the country has witnessed in the past few years of the new dawn administration in various sectors, among them, education, health, military and security wings, reaffirms government’s commitment to better the lives of the youths through job creation.
President Hichilema said the Government has come up with various interventions such as free education, skills training and other youth empowerment schemes to improve the welfare of the young people.
” It is the intention of this Government from onset to beef up opportunities for the largest population of this country who are the youths,” President Hichilema said.
He congratulated the newly commissioned officers and urged them to join in the fight against corruption.
“To the officers, congratulations, be good citizens and provide good leadership. Help in the fight against corruption and bring order to the country,” said President Hichilema.
And President Hichilema has reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to the fight against corruption stressing that corruption cases of yesterday, today and tomorrow will be fully investigated before arrests are made.
President Hichilema warned that no one will be shielded from being arrested and prosecuted if found waiting on allegations of corruption.
“We are very serious with the fight against corruption and any one found wanting, he or she is on his own,’’ said President Hichilema.
Defence Minister, Ambrose Lufuma said Government has continued supporting the recruitment of soldiers and officers in the defence in order to enhance the effective protection of the country’s territory.
Mr Lufuma said his ministry is profoundly grateful to the President for the unwavering support and dedication to the efforts aimed at strengthening out defence capabilities.
Mr Lufuma said he is confident that the new officers will bring renewed energy and vigour to the institution.
“Additional personnel will enable the service to deliver on its multifaceted roles,” said Mr Lufuma.
Speaking earlier, ZNS Commander, Lieutenant General, Maliti Solochi said that the training of the commissioned officers is the largest in the history of the service.
Lt Gen Solochi said that the Government’s commitment to boost the capacity of ZNS will contribute to the continued peace and development of the nation.
He stated that in line with ZNS mission to support national food security, the service wing is expected to plant more than 1,400 hectares of early maize next month and another 1,300 hectares of rain fed maize later this year.
Lt Gen, Solochi added that the Service will also plant 1,300 hectares of rain fed maize.
‘’Mr President that, in line with our mission to support national food security, beginning next month, August 2024, the service will put to crop more than 1,400 hectares of early planted maize to be followed by 1,300 hectares of rain fed maize,” said Lt Gen Solochi.
Lt Gen, Solochi further disclosed that the ZNS is introducing irrigation equipment in rain- dependant production units and adopting climate – Smart agricultural methods.
The ZNS commander urged the new officers to be committed to duty and ensure that they do not engage themselves in active politics.
And ZNS Training School Commandant, Brigadier General, Sydney Machikodisclosed that Intake 05 of 2023 commenced on 6 November last year with 479 officer cadets.
Brig Gen Machiko added that 305 were male officer cadets and 274 female officer cadets.
Brig Gen, Machiko further stated that due to the rigorous training and other circumstances, 20 officer cadets could not make it, hence witnessing the commissioning of 459 officer cadets, 291 male and 168 females.
He stated that the commissioned officers are both professional and direct entrants.
‘’The infantry officer cadets training commenced on 06 November, 2023 with 479 cadets. 305 male and 174 females. Due to rigorous training and other circumstances, 20 officer cadets could not make it, hence witnessing the commissioning of 459 officer cadets broken down as, 291 male and 168 female officer cadets,” said Brig Gen,Machiko.

ZAMMSA Director General Suspended Over Medicines Found in Private Depot

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ZAMMSA Director General Suspended Over Medicines Found in Private Depot

The Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) Board has announced the immediate suspension of its Director General, Mr. Victor Nyasulu. This decision follows the discovery of 61 containers filled with assorted medicines and medical supplies at a private depot in the Makeni area of Lusaka.

Dr. Lisulo Walubita, Acting Board Chairperson, expressed the board’s deep regret over the incident, emphasizing that such occurrences undermine the integrity and trust placed in ZAMMSA. “The ZAMMSA board extremely regrets the occurrence of this incident,” Dr. Walubita stated.

Despite this setback, Dr. Walubita assured the public that ZAMMSA’s operations and the servicing of all public health facilities will continue uninterrupted. The board is committed to maintaining the agency’s role in ensuring the availability of essential medicines and supplies across the country.

The suspension of Mr. Nyasulu underscores ZAMMSA’s dedication to accountability and transparency within its operations. The board is expected to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the storage of the medicines and medical supplies in a private depot.

The public and health sector stakeholders will be closely monitoring the situation as ZAMMSA works to uphold its mandate and restore confidence in its operations.

Vice President Mutale Nalumango Assures Nation on Anti-Corruption Commission Probe

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Vice President Mutale Nalumango Assures Nation on Anti-Corruption Commission Probe

Vice President Mutale Nalumango has assured the nation that any corruption within the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) will be addressed in accordance with the law. Speaking in the National Assembly, Mrs. Nalumango expressed the government’s regret over recent developments at the ACC and reaffirmed its commitment to upholding good governance in all state institutions.

She emphasized that the government is dedicated to resolving the perceived challenges at the ACC through adherence to corporate governance practices, the constitution, and other relevant laws. “I have no doubt that the current challenges the institution may be facing will be resolved by following good corporate governance practices, the constitution, and other laws of the country,” Mrs. Nalumango stated.

Her remarks followed a Ministerial Statement on the alleged corruption at the ACC, prompted by an urgent matter raised by Lumezi Member of Parliament Munir Zulu. The issue has drawn significant attention, leading to decisive actions from the highest levels of government.

In response to these developments, President Hakainde Hichilema has dissolved the ACC board with immediate effect, pursuant to Article 270 of the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia and Section 26 of the Interpretation and General Provisions Act, Chapter 2 of the Laws of Zambia. This move aims to renew the ACC’s mandate and implement necessary reforms to ensure its effective operation.

President Hichilema’s decision underscores his unwavering commitment to fighting corruption and maintaining a zero-tolerance policy towards corrupt practices. He extended his gratitude to the outgoing board members, led by Musa Mwenye, for their service and wished them well in their future endeavors.

The dissolution follows allegations detailed by ACC board member and Commissioner Dr. O’Brien Kaaba, who exposed large-scale corruption involving the State Chambers, including the Attorney General, Director of Public Prosecutions, and selected judges. Dr. Kaaba’s letter also implicated the ACC and the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) in running an extortion ring concerning seized or frozen assets and bank accounts, negotiating with suspects to release funds in exchange for kickbacks.

Former Ambassador Emmanuel Mwamba emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into Dr. Kaaba’s allegations to root out any corrupt individuals within the ACC. President Hichilema’s actions signal a strong stance against corruption, aiming to restore integrity and public trust in the institution spearheading Zambia’s anti-corruption efforts.

As the government moves forward, the nation watches closely, hopeful that these measures will lead to greater transparency and accountability in the fight against corruption.

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