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Cushioning of Households: A Timely Socio-Economic Intervention

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Cushioning of Households: A Timely Socio-Economic Intervention

By Chama Mundia JCTR’s Social Economic Development Programme Manager

The cost of living for a family of five as measured by the Jesuit Centre for Theological Reflection (JCTR) for the month of November 2020 stood at K7, 126.62. This is a K66.31 increase from K7, 060.29 recorded in October. The increase in the basket is attributed to increase in the prices of food items such as beans which moved upwards by K71 from K109.86 to K180.58 for 3kg, vegetables increased by K30.39 moving from K430.19 to K460.58 per 40kg, kapenta increased by K25.53 moving from K191.40 to K216.93 per kg, bananas increased from K163.57 to K188.36 for 16 kg, Irish potatoes increased by K21.38 from K37.82 to K59.20, soya pieces increased by K15.28 moving from K89.88 to K105.16. For the non-food but essential items, the price of charcoal increased by K26 moving from K292.00 to K318.00.

These price increases were however offset by price declines in some items. Cassava moved from K88.03 to K74.76 for 6kg showing a decline of 13.43 and chicken reduced by K10.48 moving from K193.56 to K183.08. From the non-food but essential items, the price of petroleum jelly reduced by K20.06 moving from K70.49 in October to K50.43 in November.

Food expenditures are not only a key national poverty indicator but also linked to dietary intake and nutritional outcomes for households. The increase in the price of certain food items may be as a result of an increase in demand for such foods as people switch from the more expensive foods to the less expensive ones. For example, households switching to buying more of beans as the price of chicken and beef increases thereby affecting diet diversity. Additionally, the scheduled fish ban for December 2020-February 2021 likely contributed to reduced supply (in anticipation of price increases during the fish ban period) leading to price increases in items such as Kapenta.

With only a month left to the end of 2020, a critical reflection on our nation’s state of affairs is a must. The nation’s socio-economic context continues to be a challenging one. Albeit, opportunities even in this narrative abound. COVID-19 cases as a proportion of total tests remain low with only 15 confirmed cases out of 9689 tests conducted on December 7th.

Recovery rates also remain high standing at 96% of the 17,931 cumulative cases recorded as at 7 December 2020. Positive outcomes in this regard may impact positively on Zambia’s tourism and hospitality sector. To top it off, the rains have commenced and projected to be favourable for the 2020/21 farming season. JCTR commends Government for the continued commitment to ensure the timely distribution of inputs. This commitment in addition to other factors saw a bumper harvest recorded in the 2019/20 farming season with maize production standing at 3.4 million tonnes, 66 percent above the reduced outturn in 2019.

However, the nation’s key macro-economic indicators remain poor. The exchange rate of the kwacha to the US Dollar stands at K21 to US$1 with serious repercussions for an import dependent nation. Additionally, year on year inflation for November 2020 as measured by the Zambia Statistics Agency stands at 17.4 percent.

A challenging debt context characterised by rising interest payments also continues to compromise social sector outcomes. Particularly, Ministry of finance quarterly economic reports indicate lower than budgeted expenditure outturns for budget lines such as social cash transfer.

As at the close of third quarter, social cash transfer recorded an expenditure outturn of only K115,000, a meagre 18.5% of the allocated amount for the first three quarters of 2020. This is in stark contrast to interest payments on debt that stood at K15,118,195 at the close of third quarter, a 94% outturn. JCTR therefore recommends the need to prioritise a debt recovery plan for Zambia given the undeniable negative effects of a rising debt burden on the Zambian populace. Adequately responding to our socio-economic challenges is dependent on addressing a constrained fiscal space.

Zambia Tumble At COSAFA U20 Cup Semi’s

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Zambia’s 2021 AFCON U20 dreams ended on Friday after losing on post-match penalties to 10-man Mozambique in the 2020 COSAFA U20 Cup semifinals of the ongoing tournament South Africa is hosting in Port Elizabeth.

The defending champions bowed out 5-4 on post-match penalties in Port Elizabeth on Friday.

The two sides were locked at 0-0 after fulltime but not before Jose Manhice was sent off in the first half for a foul on Martin Njobvu.

Mozambique joins Namibia at the AFCON U20 in Mauritania who beat Angola 1-0 in their semifinal match.

Micho Appears Before South Africa Court

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Chipolopolo coach Milutin “Micho” Sredojevic has appeared in the South African Magistrate’s Court on alleged sexual harassment charges.

Micho, 51, was in the New Brighton Magistrate’s Court on Friday for allegedly sexually assaulting a 39-year-old woman on Monday at Wolfson Stadium during the ongoing COSAFA Under-20 Cup in Port Elizabeth.

“It is alleged that earlier this week on Monday 07 December during the Cosafa Games in Port Elizabeth a 39-year-old woman was delivering coffee at the Wolfson Stadium when she asked Sredojevic if he would need sugar with his coffee. He allegedly said no and disclosed that he needed another type of sugar while pointing at her private parts,” said National Prosecuting Authority – Eastern Cape spokesperson Anelisa Ngcakani.

“It is alleged that the lady complained to her boss who in turned warned Sredojevic not to do it again. Later on that day the lady went to deliver coffee again at the same stadium and this time Sredojevic allegedly touched her buttocks,” stated Ngcakani.

Micho was granted R10 000 bail and his next court appearance will be on 25 February 2021.

City, Chambishi, Kansanshi & Celtic Tight in Early Promotion Race

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The race for promotion in FAZ National Division 1 remains tight with City of Lusaka, Chambishi, Kafue Celtic and Kansanshi Dynamos earning the early pacesetters status.

Celtic, Chambishi and City are tied at the top of the table on 18 points apiece after nine matches played in the season.

However, Celtic are number one on better goal difference ahead of City and Chambishi.

The trio has been exchanging the top spot from the start of the 2020/21 season.

Kansanshi Dynamos in fourth place, one point behind the leading trio.

“The league is tough so we just need to continue working hard if we are to win promotion to the Super Division,” said Chambishi coach Israel Mwanza.

Four teams will be promoted to the Super Division from Division One.

Meanwhile, Nchanga Rangers are now three points away from the top following two consecutive victories in four days.

Nchanga beat Gomes 2-0 in Ndola on Thursday to move to 15 points after playing nine matches.

Brave beat Zesco Shockers 7-0 earlier on Sunday at home in Chingola.

FAZ National Division 1 Week 9

Kashikishi Warriors 3-0 Mpulungu Harbour

Kabwe Youth 2-1 Zesco Malaiti

Zesco Shockers 0-0 Chambishi

Kansanshi Dynamos 1-0 MUZA FC

Gomes FC 0-2 Nchanga Rangers

Livingston Pirates 1-0 Mufulira Wanderers

National Assembly 1- 1 Konkola Blades

Kafue Celtics 1-0 Trident

Police College 1-1 City of Lusaka

PF government has helped cut the cost of communication-Kafwaya

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PF government has helped cut the cost of communication-Kafwaya

Transport and Communication Minister Mutotye Kafwaya says the PF government has managed to lower the cost of communications since assuming power in 2011.

Mr Kafwaya has observed that the overall cost of communication services especially internet and voice charges has recorded a marked reduction.

He said the PF government has invested heavily in the improvement of communication infrastructure across the country which has now started bearing fruit.

Mr Kafwaya was soaking in Lusaka on Friday when he officiated at the launch of a new product by Zamtel called Unlimited Freedom.

“As the government of His Excellency President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, we hold the view that every Zambian should have access to quality communication services. It is for this reason that we have invested heavily in the last few years in upgrading and rolling out of communication infrastructure even in some of the remotest parts of the country,” Mr Kafwaya said.

“If there is one other sector where His Excellency President Lungu and the PF administration has scored highly besides road construction is the telecommunications sector. The reforms undertaken by the PF government has resulted in overall improvement in sector performance through increased competition and better customer appreciation,” he said.

Mr Kafwaya added, “Pricing for most of the services in the sector have also seen a marked reduction which has translated into major savings for the consumer.”

“The Zambian people should be reminded that not too long ago, you were paying higher prices for voice and data services but due to the visionary leadership of His Excellency President Lungu, my Ministry has implemented broad ranging legislative and regulatory reforms that are now reaping profits.”

Mr Kafwaya said Unlimited Freedom product speaks to the desire by the government to continue creating an enabling environment for individuals and businesses to flourish.

“In a digitally connected environment we are currently living, the desire of huge data cannot be over emphasized. Therefore, the need to make these services affordable and accessible to all becomes even more important. By introducing Freedom Unlimited, Zamtel is responding to the needs of the customer as well as entrenching its position as Zambia’s most affordable provider of world class digital services.”

He continued, “I am reliably informed that with Freedom Unlimited Offers, you talk and browse limitlessly with no restrictions and no worries about data or minutes depletion. This is a revolutionary product and a game changer for the industry. I wish to take this opportunity to encourage other players in the industry to emulate Zamtel and deploy initiatives that places the customer at the centre of their existence.”

Transport and Communications Mutotwe Kafwaya chats with Zamtel CEO Sydney Mupeta during the launch of Unlimited Freedom at Zamtel House on Friday morning
Transport and Communications Mutotwe Kafwaya chats with Zamtel CEO Sydney Mupeta during the launch of Unlimited Freedom at Zamtel House on Friday morning

And Zamtel Chief Executive Officer Sydney Mupeta said Freedom Unlimited creates better value for customers as it puts them firmly in control of their communication needs.

Mr Mupeta said Freedom Unlimited gives customers endless possibilities as they are able to enjoy free calling and browsing without worrying about depleting the purchased bundle.

“This is a segmented time-based customer proposition on voice and mobile data in response to the huge demand for data consumption as more people adopt digital lifestyles,” Mr Mupeta said.

Freedom Unlimited allows mobile customers to enjoy free calling and browsing within the specified subscription duration without limitations of the bundle value they have purchased by subscribing to *422#.

Over 3,900 people put on social cash transfer in Limulunga district

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Over 3,900 people put on social cash transfer in Limulunga district

Government has disbursed over K3 million for social cash transfer beneficiaries in Limulunga district in Western Province.

The funding is expected to benefit a total number of 3, 940 community members in the district.

In an interview, Limulunga District Social Welfare Officer, Khuzwayo Msoni said since the inception of the programme in 2016, the lives of less privileged and vulnerable people in the district has improved.

Mr Msoni noted that government is committed towards ensuring that the number of vulnerable people is increased adding that about 2000 people will be registered for 2020/2021 to be included on the list of social cash beneficiaries.

“Government through the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services is going to pay all the people on the scheme from January to December this year, especially those beneficiaries that were not captured,” said Mr Msoni.

Mr Msoni noted that government will continue to prioritise human development and economic productivity without leaving anyone behind.

He said the Social Cash Transfer in the district is targeting female and child headed households, as well as the disabled and the aged.

“The lives of people on the social cash transfer has greatly improved as they are now managing to venture into various business activities, also sending their children to school and forming cooperatives among other man programmes in the district,” said Mr Msoni.

Mr Msoni further explained that government’s consistency in the payment of the social cash transfer in the district, will lead to improved livelihood among people in the community.

And Community Welfare Assistance Committee Chairperson for Limulunga East, Raphael Kanduli said there was transparency in the identification and selection of beneficiaries to be put in the social cash transfer in the district.

Mr Kanduli said the department of social welfare in the district is continuously encouraging and sensitizing social cash transfer beneficiaries to prudently use the monies in the way that would uplift their living standards.

Minister Chiteme hands over 20 vehicles, speed boat to Luapula, Muchinga, Northern Provinces for climate change Project

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Minister Chiteme hands over 20 vehicles, speed boat to Luapula, Muchinga, Northern Provinces for climate change Project

The Minister of National Development Planning Honourable Alexander Chiteme, MP, this week handed over 20 motor vehicles and a speed boat to 16 districts in Luapula, Muchinga, Northern Provinces where the Transforming Landscapes for Resilience and Development (TRALARD) Project, which is focusing on combating climate change, is being implemented.

The Minister also launched the 2020 Budget Analysis Report on National Budget Allocations and disbursements to climate smart programes and projects.

Speaking at the joint handover and launch ceremony in Lusaka, Mr. Chiteme said the vehicles and a speed boat is aimed at easing transportation as well as ensure efficient and effective delivery of project outputs in Luapula, Muchinga, Northern Provinces.

The Minister said the main objectives of TRALARD are to improve natural resource management in selected districts, to support sustainable livelihoods and in the event of an eligible crisis or emergency, to provide immediate and effective response to the eligible crisis or emergency.

Mr. Chiteme said the TRALARD Project activities are community-driven and will assist reduce poverty and vulnerabilities in line with the strategic objectives of the Seventh National Development Plan (7NDP).
“The 16 districts where the project is being implemented are as follows: (i).Luapula Province: Chifunabuli, Kawambwa, Lunga, Nchelenge, and Samfya districts; (ii).Muchinga Province: Chama, Lavushimanda, Mpika, Mafinga, Isoka and Kanchibiya districts; (iii).Northern Province: Chilubi, Mbala, Mungwi, Mpulungu and Nsama districts,” Mr. Chiteme said.

The Minister said a brand new boat has also been procured for Lunga District.

In addition to the beneficiary districts, the Minister said three vehicles will be donated to the provincial planning units and another three vehicles to the project implementation units in the three (3) provinces.

“I urge all recipients to prudently and effectively use these motor vehicles and boat for the attainment of project objectives. Only authorized persons should utilize the vehicles and boat and for the intended purpose,” said Mr. Chiteme in the company of Luapula Province Permanent Secretary Charles Mushota, Northern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Davison Mulenga and Ministry of National Development Planning Director – Human Resources and Administration Nicolynn Nyoni.

Minister Chiteme handing over 20 vehicles, speed boat to Luapula, Muchinga, Northern Provinces for climate change Project
Minister Chiteme handing over 20 vehicles, speed boat to Luapula, Muchinga, Northern Provinces for climate change Project

Launching the 2020 budget analysis report on the national budget allocations and disbursements to climate smart programmes, Mr. Chiteme said the Government, through the Ministry of National Development Planning, commissioned a consultant to undertake a detailed analysis of allocations as well as expenditures on climate change programmes outlined in the national budget.

And World Bank Country Manager Dr. Sahr Kpundeh said climate change remains a huge development challenge for the world, including Zambia.

“In Zambia the World Bank is supporting [the] Government to tackle climate vulnerability in four ways: – Building resilience of the poor in some of the remotest areas of the country to climate variability and change; helping build good policies and strategies to cover the most vulnerable with social protection programs, investing in human capital; and promoting jobs in the rural areas through diversified, resilient and sustainable livelihoods,” said Dr. Kpundeh.

Minister Chiteme handing over 20 vehicles, speed boat to Luapula, Muchinga, Northern Provinces for climate change Project
Minister Chiteme handing over 20 vehicles, speed boat to Luapula, Muchinga, Northern Provinces for climate change Project

“The World Bank is happy to be witnessing the handing over of a boat to Lunga District and 20 vehicles to the project implementation areas for the TRALARD Project. It is hoped that the vehicles and the boat will ease project implementation and in turn ensure that the development objectives are met,” said Dr. Kpundeh.

In a vote of thanks on behalf of the three provinces, Permanent Secretary (Luapula) Mr. Mushota thanked the Government for the TRALARD Project and the provision of vehicles and boats.
Mr. Mushota appealed to the Ministry of National Development Planning to also purchase a vehicle each for Lunga and other districts that were only allocated boats.

This is according to a media statement released by Ministry of national Development Planning spokesperson Chibaula Silwamba in Lusaka.

Public urged to guard Kasenseli mine

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Public urged to guard Kasenseli mine

Home Affairs Permanent Secretary, Masiye Banda has called on the public in Mwinilunga district to work with the police in safeguarding the Kasenseli gold mine.

Mr Banda said Kasenseli gold mine is a national asset that needs to be safeguarded for the benefit of everyone.

He said the investment at Kasenseli is an economic game-changer for not only Mwinilunga district but the nation at large.

“May I challenge the community around Kasenseli to play their role by ensuring that they support the police who are providing security at the site,” Mr Banda said.

Mr Banda was speaking in Solwezi today when he paid a courtesy call on North-Western Province Permanent Secretary, Willies Mangimela.

“The community has a role to play in protecting the site which is everyone’s investment and they can do that by being law abiding,” he said.

Mr Banda noted that government wants to see the growth of Kasenseli into a viable gold mine that will contribute to the country’s economic development and job creation.

And Mr Mangimela however, appealed to the ministry to consider expanding the Solwezi central correctional facility which he said is congested due to inadequate space and also build a modern facility in Kabompo district.

“We are grateful that departments under your ministry like the Zambia Police, Correctional Services, Immigration and National Registration have received a fair share of vehicles which will enable them reach out to far flung areas,” Mr Mangimela said.

He also appealed to the ministry to consider upgrading Mwinilunga police station and equip it with more officers to help protect the gold mine at Kasenseli.

Mr Banda is in Northwestern province on a familiarization tour of departments under his ministry to appreciate their challenges as well as visit the Kasenseli gold mine to assess the security situation.

Fathi Calm But Concerned About Napsa Stars’ League Form

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Napsa coach Mohamed Fathi is not feeling the pressure but just concerned about his sides’ five-game winless start to the league season.

That run is in contrast to their debut CAF Confederation Cup campaign where they have collected back-to-back victories and scored nine goals against two.

Furthermore, Napsa’s continental form even suggested that they may have just turned the corner following the pre-season departure of their influential forward Collins Sikombe to Lusaka Dynamos.

But Napsa danced to a familiar tune when they returned to league action last Wednesday losing 2-1 away to Zanaco that saw them slump to the bottom of the log with three draws and two defeats from five games played.
 
“Giving me concern doesn’t give me pressure because if I have pressure, I won’t be able to move forward,”Fathi said.

“But it gives me concern over the problems we have in defence and why certain individual players are not putting in maximum concentration during the game.

“Napsa are back in action this Saturday when they host mid-table side Green Buffaloes in a Lusaka derby clash at Woodlands Stadium.
 
“We have to focus, we have a game on Saturday against Buffaloes and we still have some games in hand,” Fathi said.

“I know even if we win these games (in hand) we won’t be number one but I think it will improve our position on the table.
“In the long run, we will manage to touch the top four very soon in the first round.”

Chipolopolo Invited For Pre-2021 CHAN Friendlies

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Chipolopolo have been invited for a planned pre-2021 CHAN four-nation tournament by hosts Cameroon.

According to Cameroonian media reports, the four-team tournament will be held over the New Year period.

Cameroon have invited Niger, Zambia and Uganda to make early travel plans for CHAN that kicks-off on January 16 and will culminate on February 7.

Chipolopolo had similar plans for friendlies in Cameroon last March prior to the tournament that was postponed in April, 2020 due to the Covid-19.

Zambia were due to play Cameroon and 2014 CHAN champions Libya.

Chipolopolo are in Group D with Guinea, Tanzania and Namibia.

They will kick off their Group D campaign on January 19 against Tanzania.

Giant-killlers Indeni Eye Zesco’s Scalp

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Indeni coach Dabid Chilufya believes his side is officially this season’s giant-killer as Saturday’s Ndola derby away date against Zesco United looms.

The fourth placed promoted side head into their lunchtime kickoff Ndola derby at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium against their more successful cross town rivals following two recent big kills.

Indeni beat Power Dynamos 1-0 in Ndola on November 29 and followed that up with another home victory on December 9 when they stunned ailing defending league champions Nkana 2-0.

“It is a clear picture, or it is a clear signal, to the other teams that are coming and to say that Indeni is not a pushover. It is a team that can win anytime,” Chilufya said.

But those victories over the two Kitwe giants were punctuated by a 1-0 away loss to Nkwazi on December 5 who are just behind them in fifth place and both sides are tied on 12 points, three behind Zesco.

However, Chilfuya could have a valid point after also holding Red Arrows and Green Buffaloes after starting the season with a 2-0 away loss against his former side Zanaco on October 31.

Meanwhile, Indeni face second placed Zesco who are looking warmed-up after a slow start to the campaign.

Zesco are unbeaten it last four games with two wins and as many draws.

Victory for Zesco in the derby will see them reclaim top spot for at least 24 hours before neighbours Buildcon home game against second from bottom Kitwe United on Sunday at the same venue.

El Mukuka and Cuebur collaborate on the Afro Pop smash hit ‘I’ll Hold You Down’ featuring Marocco and James Sakala

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El Mukuka and Cuebur collaborate on the Afro Pop smash hit ‘I’ll Hold You Down’ featuring Marocco and James Sakala

Zambia’s top DJ/Producer, El Mukuka collaborates with South African heavyweight Cuebur on the brand new single ‘I’ll Hold You Down’ featuring the vocal talents of Marocco and James Sakala – out across all digital platforms today.

After years of friendship and remixing work for one another, El Mukuka and Cuebur finally drop an original collaboration entitled ‘I’ll Hold You Down’. The song is a sexy, slow tempo Afro-pop “tropical” track ideal for the summer. The sensually smooth vocal delivery by Marocco and James Sakala gives the song a laid back, fun and cheeky vibe that builds throughout the entire track.

El Mukuka commented on the team of artists saying “Cuebur, Marocco and James Sakala are common names within my repertoire, but this song I feel is something different and special.”

Cuebur, a SAMA nominated music producer, mix engineer and club DJ who hails all the way from Middelburg, Mpumalanga, made a name for himself after he released his hit song ‘Pepe’, which was featured on DJ Zinhle’s ‘Feminine Touch’ album. Since then he has produced songs for some of SA’s most popular artists, including Heavy K, Shimza and Da Capo.

“2020 has been such a weirdly challenging year full of high and low notes but I have been fascinated by the amount of inspiration I’ve had this year. Tons of new music is on the way and I truly hope that 2021 can see a return to international touring, which I miss incredibly”, says El Mukuka.

Milingo Lungu’s Continued Activities Will Be Costly To ZCCM-IH and the Nation in the Long Run

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Milingo Lungu’s Continued Activities Will Be Costly To ZCCM-IH and the Nation in the Long Run

Green Party President Peter Sinkamba has warned that the continued acts of KCM liquidator Milingo Lungu at KCM are illegal and that his continued activities at KCM will surely be costly not only to ZCCM-IH but the nation as well in the long run.

Reacting to a media statement by Vedanta Resources Holdings Limited with regards to rumours in Zambia that the Provisional the Liquidator is set to split the KCM business into two separate units and is considering divesting one or both of these units to unnamed, opportunistic and potentially ESG-challenged investors, Mr Sinkamba said that urged President Lungu, as a lawyer, to direct Mr Milingo to pack his bags at KCM and wait for the outcome of the arbitration process in South Africa and/or further directions of the Court of Appeal or the Supreme Court.

Mr Sinkamba further appealed to Government to engage Vedanta into a meaningful dialogue, since it appears from the tone of the statement that the company is still ready to resolve the difference amicably.

Below is the full statement that Vedanta issued

VEDANTA UPDATE ON KCM

10 December 2020, London: Vedanta Resources Holdings Limited and its parent, Vedanta Resources Limited (“the Parent Company”), issues the following statement with regards to rumours in Zambia that the Provisional Liquidator is set to split the KCM business into two separate units and is considering divesting one or both of these units to unnamed, opportunistic and potentially ESG-challenged investors. Such action would be in violation of the Court of Appeal’s recent ruling in its judgment dated 20 November 2020.

On 20 November 2020, the Zambian Court of Appeal delivered a judgement ordering that the winding up proceedings against KCM be stayed pursuant to section 10 of the Arbitration Act, 2000. Whilst it is the firm intention of the Company to find an amicable solution to the dispute with ZCCM-IH that is in the best interest of KCM and Zambia, Vedanta will act within its rights to ensure that its interests in KCM are fully protected and the provisional liquidator does not act in flagrant breach of the Court of Appeal’s decision. Moreover, Vedanta will take all necessary steps both in Zambia and internationally to safeguard its interests in KCM should the provisional liquidator attempt to dispose of KCM’s assets to any third party who would axiomatically be party to an unlawful act.

Vedanta remains strongly committed to KCM, its operations and employees, local communities and the Government of Zambia, just as it has been over the past fifteen years. This commitment includes providing significant financial and technical support to KCM in order to stabilise current operations as well as further developing the assets to allow for a successful turnaround of the business, as outlined in our Financial Letter of Support submitted to the KCM board of directors and the Zambian High Court on 16 August 2019. Vedanta will also ensure the payment of all outstanding validated and approved creditor debt.

Any agreement would be subject to terms that are consistent with the current shareholders’ agreement between Vedanta and ZCCM-IH.

Govt. committed to promote women, girl’s reproductive health and rights – PS D. Chisenda

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Govt. committed to promote women, girl’s reproductive health and rights – PS D. Chisenda

Ministry of National Development Planning Permanent Secretary Danies Chisenda says the Government remains steadfastly committed to uplift people’s wellbeing especially women and girls by upholding sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights for all.

In a statement read on his behalf by the Ministry’s Director for Population and Development Mr. Charles Banda at the official opening of the 2020 GRZ/UNFPA 8th Country Programme Annual Review and 2021 Planning Meeting in Lusaka, Mr. Chisenda commended the United National Population Fund (UNFPA) for its continued collaboration with the Zambian Government to improve the welfare of the people.

Mr. Chisenda, who is Permanent Secretary in charge of Development Cooperation, Monitoring and Evaluation, said the 2020 annual review and planning meeting presented a great opportunity to all multi-sectoral participants to reflect on the implementation status, and determine to what extent the work was leading towards the desired development outcomes.

“Government has sharpened its resolve in guiding the country on population matters by launching the 2019 National Population Policy and its Implementation Plan this year. The implementation plan has clear targets; and as we plan for next year, it will be vital that all stakeholders refer to the two documents to guide our immediate results,” Mr. Chisenda said. “I assure you that the Government through our ministry is committed to track progress on the implementation of the 8th GRZ/UNFPA Country Programme on population and development to ensure that critical targets are achieved as detailed in our various work plans.”

The Permanent Secretary noted that the Government of Zambia was cognisant of some setbacks in the implementation of the 2020 annual works due to COVID-19 and other natural disasters.

“Whatever the context, whether COVID-19 or a climate-related disaster or any other crisis, the 8th Country Programme’s focus remains on uplifting people especially women and girls by upholding sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights for all. You all may be aware COVID-19 has unmasked the extent to which such crises exacerbate inequalities,” Mr. Chisenda said. “Zambia and UNFPA have worked well together even in this COVID-19 environment and for this, the UNFPA Country Office – through the able leadership of the Country Representative Madam Gift Malunga – is greatly appreciated.”

UNFPA Country Representative Ms. Gift Malunga
UNFPA Country Representative Ms. Gift Malunga

And UNFPA Country Representative Gift Malunga reaffirmed UNFPA’s commitment to sustain its support to Zambia and partners towards securing the health and wellbeing of all women and young people. She noted that COVID-19 had presented unprecedented challenges to humanity.

“Despite this setback, we have all demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability as we have continued to deliver on our mandate which is even more critical in times like these when we need to continue to safeguard the health and wellbeing of women and young people,” said Ms. Malunga.
She expressed optimism that the participants will deliver on the 2021 priorities.

“Some of these priorities include: Supporting continuity of essential sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, including maternal health care services that have been disrupted, with potentially serious implications for maternal and new-born health; procurement and supply of family planning commodities; adolescent and youth SRH and empowerment; prevention and response to Gender Based Violence (GBV) and support for the Population and Housing Census; and advancing the Demographic Dividend.”

Under the 8th Country Programme (2016-2020), UNFPA supports Zambia in implementing its national priorities as articulated in the Seventh National Development Plan (7NDP) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Partnership Framework (UNSDPF).
This is according to a media statement issued by Ministry of National Development Planning spokesperson Mr. Chibaula D. Silwamba in Lusaka yesterday.

KK receives Mahatma Gandhi memento

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KK receives Mahatma Gandhi memento

Zambia’s High Commissioner to India, Judith Kapijimpanga, has presented a memento to Zambia’s First Republican President Kenneth Kaunda from Gandhi Smriti, a museum, where India’s icon Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated from.

The memento was first presented in New Delhi, India, when the Zambian High Commissioner held a day’s exhibition in honour of Dr. Kaunda’s contribution to Africa and global peace efforts, at a function that attracted diplomats from Malawi, Tanzania and the academia.

Speaking when she presented the memento to the First Republican President at his residence yesterday, Mrs Kapijimpanga said the younger generation should know that Dr. Kaunda also immensely contributed to the release of South Africa’s former and late President Nelson Mandela, from Robbin Island prison.

“It is high time that the world remembered the sacrifice that Dr. Kaunda made in liberating Zambia and the Southern African region,” Mrs Kapijimpanga said.

She added that in 1990 Dr Kaunda, declared a five day holiday after Nelson Mandela’s release from prison, were he visited regional Presidents that convened in Lusaka ahead of his ascension to the Presidency in South Africa.

The High Commissioner praised India’s Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti Museum for taking time to celebrate the ideology and humanism of Zambia’s First President, where he believed that he was not free if his neighbours were not free.

“The event coincides with the 150th birthday anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi who largely inspired Dr Kaunda’s non-violent movement against colonial masters,” Mrs. Kapijimpanga added.

Mrs Kapijimpanga explained that the memento was a gift from the Indian people to Dr Kaunda with love.

And Dr Kaunda thanked India and Mahatma Gandhi for the inspiration in the struggle for independence.

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