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President Hichilema officially launches Construction of 300mw Maamba power project

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema officially launches Construction of 300mw Maamba power project

President Hakainde Hichilema has called on the residents of Sinazongwe to support the Maamba thermal power expansion project, emphasizing its potential to drive economic growth and create opportunities for the local community. The President made these remarks during a public rally at Kanzinze Stadium in Sinazongwe, following the commissioning of the Maamba Energy Limited Phase II thermal plant, a $400 million investment set to double the plant’s capacity to 600 megawatts.

Addressing the crowd, President Hichilema highlighted the achievements of his administration over the past three years, including delivering on key promises such as providing free education and increasing the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). “We have brought peace, you are freely moving about with no intimidation, we have employed your children as teachers, nurses, and army officers across the country,” he said, underscoring the government’s commitment to improving the lives of Zambians.

The President assured the people of Sinazongwe that his administration is dedicated to completing critical infrastructure projects, including the Maamba-Batoka road, and enhancing the economic status of both the district and the province. He urged residents to embrace the thermal power expansion project, which he noted would open doors for local businesses through contracts and linkages with the mines. “You will start doing business through contracts with the mines, ensure you support the project, it will also support you,” he added.

At the event, Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Paul Kabuswe, commended President Hichilema’s leadership, stating that Zambia is on a path of recovery. He called on the public to continue supporting the President’s vision, particularly in the energy sector.

The Maamba thermal power expansion project, slated for completion in 24 months, represents a significant step towards addressing Zambia’s energy deficit. President Hichilema noted that the project is a testament to the government’s determination to achieve energy security and praised the successful resolution of conflicts between Maamba Energy and ZESCO, which had previously hindered progress.

The President also emphasized the importance of environmental responsibility in the implementation of the project and called on the power plant management to prioritize the employment of locals.

In a related matter, President Hichilema advised residents in areas affected by the recent anthrax outbreak in Southern Province to avoid consuming carcasses of animals that succumb to the disease and to ensure their livestock are vaccinated. The government, he assured, is working diligently to control the outbreak.

Energy Minister Makozo Chikote, speaking at the same event, highlighted the long-term impact of the Maamba expansion project, stating that it would transform Zambia’s energy landscape for generations. Maamba Energy board chairperson Ashvin Devineni and ZCCM-IH Board Chairperson Akanenwa Muyangwa also expressed their commitment to advancing the country’s energy sector through continued investment.

President Hichilema has since returned to Lusaka.

Former First Lady Maureen Mwanawasa has passed away

Lusaka Times Editor
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Former First Lady Maureen Mwanawasa has passed away

It is with deep regret and sadness that we report the death of former First Lady Maureen Mwanawasa on 13th August 2024.

The nation is mourning the loss of former First Lady Maureen Mwanawasa, who passed away today at Maina Soko Military Hospital in Lusaka. Mrs. Mwanawasa was the wife of the late President Levy Mwanawasa and served as First Lady from 2002 until her husband’s passing in 2008.

President Hichilema said “It is with deep shock and sorrow that we have learnt of the passing of the former first lady, Mrs Maureen Kakubo Mwanawasa.We call on the country to unite as we join her family, and indeed the nation, in prayer.
May her soul rest in eternal peace. ”

Dr. Nevers Sekwila Mumba, President of the Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), expressed his deep sorrow at the news, offering heartfelt condolences to the Mwanawasa and Kakubo families. “My heart goes out to the entire Mwanawasa family during this difficult time. May God comfort, strengthen, and keep us united in this bereavement,” Dr. Mumba said in a statement.

He praised Mrs. Mwanawasa’s legacy, noting her dedication, kindness, and compassion, which left a lasting impact on the nation. “May her legacy of hard work, kindness, compassion, and dedication to our nation continue to inspire us,” Dr. Mumba added.

On behalf of the MMD and in his personal capacity, Dr. Mumba expressed profound sadness over her passing, stating, “Rest in peace, Mrs. Mwanawasa. You will be deeply missed.”

As the country reflects on her contributions, Mrs. Maureen Mwanawasa is remembered for her role in advocating for social causes and her unwavering commitment to Zambia’s development.

Maureen Kakubo Mwanawasa was born on 28 April 1963 in Kabwe, Central Province, Zambia, to Jeniya Lupumpaula Chilunga Kakabo and Lupumpaula Buluwayo Kakubo. She was the eighth of ten children in a family of six boys and four girls.

Her educational journey began in 1970 at Raphael Kombe Primary School in Chimanimani Township, Kabwe. In 1976, she moved to St Mary’s Secondary School in Maramba, Livingstone, where she graduated in 1981.

Maureen met Levy Mwanawasa in Kabwe and they were married on 7 May 1987. The couple have four children: three daughters and a son.

During the 2001 presidential election, Maureen actively campaigned alongside her husband, who won the election on 27 December 2001 and was inaugurated on 2 January 2002.

In 2006 she was considered a potential presidential candidate, but after her husband’s death she did not seek to represent his party in the election. In particular, she clashed with Michael Sata of the Patriotic Front at her husband’s funeral, resulting in Sata being removed from the premises.

Maureen Mwanawasa was a former president of the Organisation of African First Ladies Against HIV/AIDS and founded the Maureen Mwanawasa Community Initiative (MMCI) in 2002. She also co-owned Mwanawasa & Company, her husband’s law firm, until he entered politics. In 2006, she was honoured with World Vision’s International Hope Award.

Originally a Jehovah’s Witness, she was excommunicated in 2001 for her political activities and later became a Baptist Christian.

In May 2016, Maureen announced her candidacy for the position of executive mayor of Lusaka under the United Party for National Development (UPND).

She received endorsements from prominent figures and promised to address the city’s problems, including cholera outbreaks, water shortages and garbage issues. Despite her efforts, she came second in the Lusaka mayoral election on 11 August 2016, losing to Patriotic Front candidate Wilson Kalumba.

Maureen Mwanawasa’s contributions and dedication to her community and country will be remembered with great respect.

The nation mourns the loss of a respected leader and cherished figure.

High Court Rejects Attorney General’s Application in Case of Nine PF MPs

Chief Editor
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High Court Rejects Attorney General’s Application in Case of Nine PF MPs

The Lusaka High Court has dismissed the Attorney General’s request to lift a stay granted to nine Patriotic Front (PF) Members of Parliament (MPs) whose seats were declared vacant by Second Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Moyo. The MPs, who challenged the Speaker’s decision in court, successfully obtained a stay that temporarily blocks the enforcement of the decision.

Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha’s application to overturn the stay aimed to allow the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to proceed with scheduling nine parliamentary by-elections. However, this move has faced significant criticism from the public, particularly in light of the country’s current financial constraints.

The High Court’s decision means that the stay remains in effect, and the ECZ will not announce any by-elections for the contested seats at this time. The main hearing for the case is scheduled to commence on September 9, 2024.

The MPs involved in the case are Brian Mundubile, Stephen Kampyongo, Remember Mutale, Christopher Kang’ombe, Ronald Chitotela, Nickson Chilangwa, Davies Chisopa, Mulenga Fube, and Mutotwe Kafwaya. They sought judicial review after their seats were declared vacant in July, challenging the legality of the Speaker’s decision.

As the case progresses, it is expected to draw significant attention, given its implications for the political landscape and governance in Zambia.

Urgent Appeal for Media Attention: Health Minister’s Inaction in Former Kalulushi MP’s Critical Medical Situation

Chief Editor
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Urgent Appeal for Media Attention: Health Minister’s Inaction in Former Kalulushi MP’s Critical Medical Situation

Dear Editor,

I am writing to bring attention to a deeply distressing situation concerning my 72-year-old mother, who is suffering from a severe case of gangrene in her foot due to complications from diabetes. Despite numerous attempts to secure urgent medical intervention from the Ministry of Health, no action has been taken.

My mother’s condition is rapidly worsening, and the lack of response from the Ministry has left our family in a state of despair. We have reached out to the Health Minister, Dr. Elijah Muchima, but have yet to receive the necessary assistance. This is a matter of life and death, and the inaction is putting my mother’s life at even greater risk.

As a last resort, I am turning to the media to highlight this grave situation in the hope that public attention might prompt the authorities to take immediate action. I am pleading for your help in raising awareness of my mother’s condition and the urgent need for her to receive the surgical intervention that could save her life.

Attached to this email are images showing the severity of my mother’s condition. I urge you to consider sharing this story to help us secure the medical care she so desperately needs.

Is this how the country treats its senior citizens, particularly those that have served the country?

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
Chansa Chipampata

Zambia Police Investigate Viral Assault Video Circulating on Social Media

Chief Editor
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Zambia Police Investigate Viral Assault Video Circulating on Social Media

The Zambia Police Service has confirmed the circulation of a disturbing video on social media, capturing an assault that took place on August 2, 2024, in the Kisasa area of Kalumbila District.

The video shows the assault of 21-year-old Ms. Kavui Mwanaute, a resident of Kisasa and originally from Village Mukanda in Chief Ishindi’s area of Zambezi District. According to police reports, Ms. Mwanaute was assaulted by Ms. Annie Phiri, also of Kisasa, following accusations that Ms. Mwanaute was involved in an extramarital affair with Ms. Phiri’s husband.

The assault, which occurred at approximately 17:00 hours on August 2, left Ms. Mwanaute with bruises on her back, buttocks, abdomen, and general body pains. The incident reportedly took place after Ms. Phiri confronted Ms. Mwanaute at a local market, forcibly taking her to her residence and assaulting her with slaps and kicks. The attack was eventually halted when neighbors intervened.

Following the incident, a case docket was opened at the Kalumbila Police Station, and Ms. Annie Phiri was arrested on August 6, 2024. She has been formally charged with Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm (OABH).

In recent days, videos of the assault have surfaced and gone viral across various social media platforms. The Zambia Police Service has expressed serious concern over the dissemination of these videos, emphasizing that sharing such content can lead to further victimization of the victim and may have legal consequences.

“We urge the public to refrain from sharing this content,” said Zambia Police Public Relations Officer Rae Hamoonga. “The Zambia Police Service is committed to ensuring justice is served and will investigate the source of these viral videos. Anyone found to be involved in the unlawful distribution of the footage will face legal action.”

The police have reassured the public that they are taking the matter seriously and are determined to uphold the law in this case. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

27 Children Reintegrated With Families In Chilanga

Chief Editor
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27 Children Reintegrated With Families In Chilanga

27 children have been reintegrated with their families from child care facilities in Chilanga District under the Intensive Family Support Programme.

District Social Welfare Officer, Emelda Ng’oma explained that the children were reintegrated with their families to ensure alternative family care for the vulnerable children.

In an interview with ZANIS in Chilanga, Mrs Ng’oma stated that the reintegration followed an assessment of the children’s families to ensure that they were returning to safe homes.

She added that the assessment revealed that some families were capable of caring for their children but needed support that would enable them to access basic necessities such as education for the children.

“After a period of establishment, the children were released into the care of their biological parents or next of kin. This successful reintegration initiative highlights the importance of community-based support in keeping families together and ensuring the well-being of vulnerable children,” said Mrs Ng’oma.

She pointed out that the department empowered 33 families by providing resources to start small businesses, such as selling vegetables or fish, with funding from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to enable them generate income and create a stable environment for the children.

“The children were previously living in child care facilities because their families were unable to provide for their educational and basic needs. However, not all 33 empowered families had children in facilities, as some were at risk of separation and received preventive support,” said Mrs Ng’oma.

She also urged child care facilities to collaborate with the government through the social welfare department to protect children’s rights in the country through initiatives like the Intensive Family Support Programme.
Mrs Ng’oma added that the programme aims at promoting children’s well-being by creating a safe family environment as an alternative for vulnerable children.

Witness Testifies to Affair and Illicit Benefits in ZRA Corruption Case

Chief Editor
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Witness Testifies to Affair and Illicit Benefits in ZRA Corruption Case

A witness in the ongoing corruption trial involving former Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) officials has testified that she engaged in an affair with former ZRA Director of Administration, Calistus Kaoma, from which she received a motor vehicle valued at 35,000 Kwacha.

The witness, Emily Banda, a former temporary employee at ZRA, told the court that Mr. Kaoma gifted her the vehicle from an auction sale for which she did not qualify. She revealed that she was initially given 12,000 Kwacha by Mr. Kaoma as a directive to pay for the vehicle, which she felt compelled to accept.

This testimony is part of a broader case in which Mr. Kaoma and former ZRA Commissioner General, Kingsley Chanda, face charges of willful failure to comply with legal procedures in the disposal of 22 used motor vehicles belonging to the commission, as well as abuse of authority.

In another testimony, ZRA Security Supervisor Emmanuel Moyo recounted receiving instructions on September 18, 2018, to release six vehicles under circumstances that violated ZRA protocols. Mr. Moyo testified that he received a gate pass listing six vehicles under a single name, which was unusual and against the auction sale rules that restricted employees to purchasing only one vehicle each.

The vehicles involved in this irregular release included one Toyota Hilux, four Mitsubishi Pajeros, and one Nissan Navara. Mr. Moyo stated that despite his concerns and escalation of the issue to his supervisor, he was directed to release the vehicles due to Mr. Kaoma’s authoritative position in the department.

The charges against Mr. Chanda and Mr. Kaoma pertain to their alleged misconduct between January 14, 2017, and December 31, 2020, in Lusaka. They are accused of failing to comply with the applicable laws and procedures in the disposal of several vehicles, including Mitsubishi Pajeros, Toyota Hiluxes, and a Toyota Prado, all property of ZRA.

The case continues to unfold, with more testimonies expected in the coming days as the court examines the extent of the alleged corruption and abuse of authority by the former ZRA officials.

Should President Hichilema be given more time to fight corruption?

Chief Editor
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Should President Hichilema be given more time to fight corruption?

Should President Hakainde Hichilema be given more time to fight corruption? Corruption is not a politics-free issue in the country so expect biased answers to questions like this.

It doesn’t mean Zambians should stop asking questions like this. Because the question can potentially attract public debate, it is worth asking. Debate is key in dealing with complicated issues and corruption is no exception.

“You can’t root out corruption in two years eleven months because you find a fiber of people; a number of people who have grown up thinking that corruption is the way to go,” Hichilema told attendees at the Zambia National Service (ZNS) Officer Cadets commissioning parade in Kafue district on July 19, 2024.

Hichilema is known for using technical language to speak. On this, it is easy to tell his direction. Hichilema is lobbying for more time to fight corruption in the country. That is what drives the above question. Should he be given more time?

Hichilema is right. Corruption in the country is too deep-rooted to be rooted out in three years. However, giving the United Party for National Development (UPND) administration more time to fight the vice wastes time and resources.

On Friday, August 19, 2022, during a live interaction with the public on Hot FM radio at State House in Lusaka, Hichilema revealed he still maintains interest in his businesses. This implies that Hichilema has clients and obvious business partners, which means he is not free from conflict of interest. Hichilema may be clean, but obviously, not all his clients and business partners are.

Punishment is inevitable in the fight against corruption. For a successful fight, all corrupt acts must be punished. Because Hichilema is not free from conflict of interest, he can’t punish every corruption act. This is evident in the way the president is struggling to handle some corruption scandals in the country.

Meanwhile, Hichilema has fired the interred board of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) following Dr. O’Brien Kaaba’s allegation that the ACC is corrupt. Dr. Kaaba is a constitutional law professor at the University of Zambia and also a senior research fellow at Saipar. He is a former ACC Board member.

He had advised Hichilema to get rid of the now-dissolved ACC board in the article Three Things That Have Gone Wrong with the UPND Government’s Fight against Corruption and What the President Must Do.

It is the first time Hichilema has listened to advice in the fight against corruption. To some, it implies the president is getting tough on corruption. He should be given more time to fight the vice. To me, and definitely to many others corruption has mutated to an advanced and sophisticated level. Hichilema should step down for the right person to come and fight the vice. Someone free from conflict of interest. One who is capable of declaring assets and liabilities annually for others to follow.

Politicians in Zambia beat other groups when it comes to corruption scandals. It implies they believe they cannot make it in politics without corruption. To win the fight against the vice this kind of mindset needs to be changed.

There is a need to instill a culture of integrity, transparency, and accountability into politicians. It starts with encouraging them to willingly publicly declare assets and liabilities annually. Not once, not twice, but several times people have advised Hichilema to publicly declare assets and liabilities. The president has refused to do so hence hindering the very purpose.

It doesn’t mean Hichilema doesn’t know the importance of publicly declaring assets in the fight against corruption. He is not free from conflict of interest, which makes refusing to publicly declare assets and liabilities the best choice for him. Unfortunately, it makes Hichilema appear to be trying to hide something. It makes him a corruption suspect. and because of that he doesn’t deserve more time to fight the vice.
What do you think? Should President Hakainde Hichilema be given more time to fight corruption in Zambia?

By Venus N Msyani

President Hichilema Celebrates Cultural Heritage at 2024 Lunda-Lubanza Ceremony in Zambezi District

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Celebrates Cultural Heritage at 2024 Lunda-Lubanza Ceremony in Zambezi District
Senior Chief Ishindi of the Lunda people of Zambezi

President Hakainde Hichilema graced the 2024 Lunda-Lubanza Traditional Ceremony as the guest of honor in Zambezi District, North Western Province. The event, which brought together Lunda communities from Angola, Congo DRC, and Zambia, coincides with Zambia’s 60th independence anniversary, highlighting the nation’s commitment to embracing diversity to foster harmony and unity.

In his address, President Hichilema emphasized the significance of the ceremony, especially during a challenging period in Zambia’s history as the El Niño-induced drought has severely impacted many parts of the country. He stressed the importance of preserving and passing on the rich cultural heritage celebrated at the Lunda-Lubanza Ceremony to future generations, noting that such traditions have the power to unite the nation.

“The Lunda-Lubanza is not just a celebration of our culture, but a reminder of the strength we find in unity,” said President Hichilema. “In a time when our country faces significant challenges, it is our shared traditions and values that will guide us through.”

The Lunda Lubanza ceremony held in Zambezi district

The President also called on the Mukandakunda Royal Establishment and the organizing committee to collaborate with the government to develop the Lunda-Lubanza Ceremony into a major tourist attraction. He highlighted the potential for the event to showcase Zambia’s rich cultural diversity on a global stage, boosting both tourism and national pride.

“We have a unique opportunity to turn this celebration into a platform that not only preserves our heritage but also promotes our country to the world,” President Hichilema added. “Let us work together to ensure that the Lunda-Lubanza becomes a symbol of our nation’s resilience and unity.”

As Zambia marks its 60th year of independence, the Lunda-Lubanza Ceremony serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of cultural preservation and the role it plays in fostering national unity and pride.

Highvie Hamududu goes to greet President Hichilema

Zambia Closes Borders with DRC Amid Escalating Protests

Chief Editor
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Zambia Closes Borders with DRC Amid Escalating Protests

The Government has temporarily closed all three border crossings with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on the Copperbelt, including the Ndola-Sakania border. The decision comes as a precautionary measure to safeguard property and human life amid ongoing protests in the neighboring country.

Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister Chipoka Mulenga announced the closure, which affects the Kasumbalesa, Mokambo, and Sakania border posts. Minister Mulenga explained that the move is intended to protect Zambia’s interests as the situation in the DRC grows increasingly volatile. The protests, which have persisted for the past ten days, were sparked by the DRC’s recent ban on the importation of lime and beverages, leading to widespread unrest.

In a statement from Kasama, Minister Mulenga reassured the public that the Zambian government is in active communication with DRC authorities to find a resolution to the crisis. He also urged patience from drivers and the general public, acknowledging that the border closures could cause significant traffic congestion and disrupt trade.

“The safety of our citizens and the protection of our nation’s assets are paramount,” said Minister Mulenga. “We are closely monitoring the situation and will reopen the borders once it is safe to do so and the matter has been resolved.”

The temporary border closures will remain in effect until further notice as diplomatic efforts continue to address the underlying issues driving the protests in the DRC.

Some Notable Moments For Southern Africa At the Paris 2024 Olympics

Chief Editor
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Some Notable Moments For Southern Africa At the Paris 2024 Olympics
Paris , France – 7 August 2024; Muzala Samukonga of Team Zambia celebrates after finishing third in the men’s 400m final at the Stade de France during the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games in Paris, France. (Photo By Sam Barnes/Sportsfile via Getty Images)

The 2024 Paris Olympics saw impressive performances from athletes around the world, but only 12 African nations made it onto the medals table.

Muzala Samukonga etched his name into Zambian sports history by winning the bronze medal in the 400m at the Paris 2024 Olympics. With a remarkable time of 43.74 seconds, Samukonga not only achieved a personal best but also set a new national record for Zambia. His achievement marks a historic moment for the country, as it is Zambia’s first Olympic medal in 28 years.

At just 21 years old, Samukonga’s performance at the Olympics signals a bright future for Zambian athletics. His success is a source of immense pride for the nation and serves as an inspiration to young athletes across Zambia. Before Samukonga, the only two Olympic medals won by Zambia were Keith Mwila’s bronze in boxing at the 1984 Los Angeles Games and Samuel Matete’s silver in the 400m hurdles at the 1996 Atlanta Games.

Another historic moment unfolded as Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo claimed victory in the 200m final, becoming the new Olympic champion. Tebogo, also 21, stormed to the finish line in an African record time of 19.46 seconds, thrilling the crowd at the Stade de France. His victory denied pre-race favorite Noah Lyles the chance to secure a sprint double, as the American finished third behind his compatriot Kenneth Bednarek.

Tebogo’s win is Botswana’s first-ever Olympic gold medal, and he dedicated the victory to his late mother, Elizabeth Seratiwa, who passed away in May. Tebogo honored her memory by displaying her date of birth on his spikes and painting her initials on his fingernails. “I believe she could be one of the happiest people on the planet,” an emotional Tebogo said after the race. “Because she believed in me, even when I had so much doubt in myself.”

The 200m race, however, was not without drama. After crossing the finish line, Lyles revealed that he had tested positive for COVID-19, which had affected his performance. The track superstar had to be assisted off the track in a wheelchair, adding a poignant twist to the night.

Another spectacular race was the men’s 4x100m relay where South Africa took silver.The quartet set an African record of 37.57sec in the race won by Canada.Akani Simbine passed four other teams in the final leg to secure the country’s first ever medal in the men’s 4x100m relay.

As the Paris 2024 Olympics draw to a close, the achievements of athletes like Samukonga Tebogo and Simbine underscore the rising prominence of African athletes on the global stage, bringing hope and inspiration to their respective nations.

Paris Bids Farewell to the 2024 Olympics, Passing the Torch to Los Angeles

Chief Editor
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Paris Bids Farewell to the 2024 Olympics, Passing the Torch to Los Angeles

The Olympic flame was extinguished in Paris on Sunday, marking the official end of the 2024 Summer Games after two and a half weeks of thrilling sports and emotional moments. The closing ceremony, held at France’s national stadium, was a vibrant, star-studded event that celebrated the achievements of athletes and passed the baton to the next host city, Los Angeles, for the 2028 Games.

In a spectacular display of Hollywood flair, actor Tom Cruise made a dramatic entrance, descending from the top of the stadium to the iconic “Mission Impossible” theme song. Cruise greeted athletes and then took the Olympic flag from star gymnast Simone Biles. In a cinematic twist, he placed the flag on the back of a motorcycle and rode out of the stadium.

The ceremony continued with a prerecorded segment in which Cruise was seen riding his motorcycle past the Eiffel Tower, boarding a plane, and then skydiving over the Hollywood Hills. In a nod to the upcoming Los Angeles Games, the famed Hollywood sign was modified with three additional rings to form the five interlaced Olympic rings.

The 2024 Paris Olympics saw impressive performances from athletes around the world, but only 12 African nations made it onto the medals table. Kenya led the African contingent, securing four gold, two silver, and five bronze medals, finishing 17th overall. Algeria followed in joint 39th place with a total of three medals, including two gold and one bronze.

Other African countries on the medals table included South Africa, which finished in joint 44th place with six medals (one gold, three silver, and two bronze), and Ethiopia, which secured four medals (one gold, three silver) to place 47th. Egypt and Tunisia both finished in joint 52nd place, each earning one gold, one silver, and one bronze medal.

Botswana and Uganda tied for 55th place, each with one gold and one silver medal, while Morocco finished 60th with one gold and one bronze. Côte d’Ivoire, Cape Verde, and Zambia all earned one bronze medal each, placing them in joint 84th place.

As the world bid farewell to Paris 2024, anticipation now builds for the next chapter of the Olympic story in Los Angeles, where athletes will once again come together to compete on the world stage in 2028.

President Hichilema Emphasizes National Unity and Cultural Preservation at the 2024 Ukusefya Pa Ng’wena Traditional Ceremony

Chief Editor
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President Hichilema Emphasizes National Unity and Cultural Preservation at the 2024 Ukusefya Pa Ng’wena Traditional Ceremony

President Hakainde Hichilema graced the 2024 Ukusefya Pa Ng’wena Traditional Ceremony of the Bemba-speaking people in Mungwi District, Northern Province. In his address, President Hichilema underscored the importance of unity and cultural preservation as vital elements for national development.

Speaking at the ceremony, the President highlighted the need for the country to uphold its rich traditions and cultural heritage, which serve as a foundation for the nation’s identity. He urged traditional leaders across Zambia to continue fostering unity by learning from and visiting one another, emphasizing that “unity in diversity is what this country needs. We can achieve more on the platform of unity.”

President Hichilema also applauded the people of Northern Province for their increased maize production, attributing this success to favorable rainfall patterns. He encouraged continued hard work in agriculture to further enhance productivity and national food security, assuring the government’s support in irrigation projects within the region.

The President took the opportunity to commend His Royal Highness, Paramount Chief Chitimukulu, for his role in promoting peace and unity by embracing other traditional leaders across the country. This year’s ceremony, which saw the participation of over 33 chiefs and 40 VIPs, including former Vice President Nevers Mumba, was a testament to this spirit of national cohesion.

In addition to cultural matters, President Hichilema addressed the progress in infrastructure development, particularly the rehabilitation of Kasama Airport, which has facilitated easier access to the Ukusefya Pa Ng’wena ceremony. He announced that contracts have been signed for the rehabilitation of Mansa Airport, with plans to improve all provincial airports to boost air travel across Zambia.

The President also called on the people of Northern Province to capitalize on the region’s mineral wealth through legal and sustainable mining practices, emphasizing the potential for economic growth if managed responsibly.

In his remarks, Mwine Lubemba Chitimukulu Kanyata Manga II, through a speech delivered by Senior Chief Nkula, expressed gratitude to President Hichilema for officiating at the event and for the government’s commitment to regional development, particularly in improving Kasama Airport and supporting local infrastructure projects.

The Ukusefya Pa Ng’wena ceremony, an annual event, remains a significant cultural gathering, promoting unity and the preservation of traditions among the Bemba people and the broader Zambian community.

Kasenengwa Parents Urged To Enlighten Their Children On Sexuality

Chief Editor
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Kasenengwa Parents Urged To Enlighten Their Children On Sexuality

Parents and guardians in Kasenengwa district of Eastern Province have been encouraged to enlighten young people on issues of sexuality.

Chisomo Community Programme Executive Director, Annie Chiseni,explained that the move will help in ensuring adolescents have the right information on sexual reproductive health among others.

Ms Chiseni observed that most young people have the wrong perception on issues of sexuality which they usually obtain from wrong sources.

“Our children no longer live like during our times, they have more information than us. So if we don’t sit down to discuss such matters with them as parents, they will end up getting the wrong information from outside”, she said.

She emphasised the need for parents and guardians to be open enough to the adolescents in order to protect them from selfish individuals who may feed them with wrong information.

Ms Chiseni added that the development will also help children to develop a right sense of judgment on different information provided to them.

“Let parents talk to their children on issues of sexuality so that when they go outside and they are fed with wrong information, they will not take it as gospel truth”, she said.

She further called on stakeholders to take a leading role in sensitising young people on sexual reproductive health to prevent them from engaging in sexual activities at a tender age.

Aggrey Chiyangi is new Nkwazi head coach

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Aggrey Chiyangi is new Nkwazi head coach

By Benedict Tembo

Nkwazi Football Club have appointed veteran coach Aggrey Chiyangi as head coach.
The Zambia Police Service sponsored outfit said in a statement today that Chiyangi has signed a two-year contract. The former Chipolopolo care-taker coach who was unveiled today at Police Service headquarters by Inspector General of Police Graphael Musamba.
He joins the Police a week before the start of the 2024 – 2025 MTN Super League season, replaces Dennis Makinka.
Makinka, like his predecessor Oswald Mutapa has trekked to Kitwe for greener pastures.
While Mutapa aka Mourinho joined Power Dynamos as head trainer last season, Makinka has settled at Nkana deputy coach to Ian Bakala.
Chiyangi arrives at Edwin Imboela Stadium, having previously coached Chambishi Nkana FC, Zanaco, Nchanga Rangers, and Green Eagles.
It was at Eagles later where Chiyangi made a name by transforming the Zambia National Service side from mere braidmaids in the league to into a formidable side which played in Africa for three seasons.
Chiyangi also had a stint in Botswana.
Musamba expressed optimism about the appointment of the massively experienced coach.
“Given coach Chiyangi’s vast experience, I am confident the team is in capable hands,” Musamba said.
The IG said the club has high expectations for the team, including winning the league, the ABSA Cup, and competing in continental football.
He also urged the team to uphold high standards of discipline, reflecting the esteemed image of the institution.
Club chairman Bradley Mweene expressed confidence in Chiyangi’s ability to meet expectations, citing his extensive experience in the league. Mweene also challenged Chiyangi to achieve even greater success than the team’s performance last season.
Chiyangi joins a coaching team that includes Keegan Phiri as first assistant, Edward Kangwa as second assistant, Signs Chibanbo as third assistant, and Samuel Ngukube as goalkeeper trainer.

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