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Vehicle Burnt to Ashes at Chipanga Market in Chikankata District

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Vehicle Burnt to Ashes at Chipanga Market in Chikankata District
burning car at chikankata
On lookers witness the burning vehicle at Chipanga Market in Chikankata District

A Toyota Wish with registration number BAF 1671 was engulfed in flames and reduced to ashes on Monday afternoon around 14:00hrs while undergoing welding at Chipanga Market in Chikankata District.

Maxwell Chiputa, the proprietor of the workshop where the incident occurred, revealed that the vehicle caught fire during welding work being conducted by a mechanic. According to Chiputa, it is suspected that sparks from the welding process came into contact with a fuel tank, which was apparently leaking.

In an interview with Salvation Army Radio, Chiputa expressed his dismay over the unfortunate incident. The owner of the workshop lamented the loss, stating that the vehicle belonged to an individual from Kafue whose identity remains undisclosed. Understandably distraught, the owner was unable to provide any comments as he witnessed his vehicle being consumed by the fire.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with welding activities, particularly when working near flammable materials such as fuel tanks.

Efforts to contain the fire and prevent any further damage were reportedly undertaken swiftly by bystanders and nearby residents. However, despite their efforts, the vehicle was ultimately destroyed beyond repair.

As investigations into the cause of the fire continue, Chiputa emphasized the need for heightened safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. The incident serves as a cautionary tale for both workshop owners and vehicle owners regarding the importance of adhering to safety protocols during welding and maintenance activities.

Time is up – IMF and World Bank must end colonial rule, says ActionAid

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Time is up – IMF and World Bank must end colonial rule, says ActionAid
imf
FILE PHOTO: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) logo is seen outside the headquarters building in Washington, U.S., September 4, 2018. REUTERS/Yuri Gripas/File Photo

The time is up for the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank to continue with perpetuating a colonial rule, says ActionAid as the institutions concluded their Spring meetings in Washington DC this week.

ActionAid says for the 80 years the IMF and World Bank have been in existence, not much has changed. Instead, global South countries have been pushed further into debt and are reeling from the impacts of IMF-imposed austerity measures.

In its 2023 report Fifty Years of Failure, ActionAid found that despite following the IMF’s advice for decades, many African countries are in debt distress or facing a high risk of debt distress. Austerity measures have blocked the recruitment of teachers, doctors and nurses, even in countries with severe shortages, and has squeezed public sector salaries at a time of a rising cost of living.

Roos Saalbrink, Global Lead on Economic Justice and Public Services at ActionAid International, says, “Countries in the global South have since the structural adjustment progammes been in perpetual austerity, eroding public health and education. At a time of unprecedented climate crisis and debt crisis in the global South, the Bretton Woods Institutions continue to oil the wheels of colonial exploitation and extraction. At the same time global South governments have very little say in the policies coming from these institutions at the center of the international financial architecture. 80 years is enough.”

ActionAid is also concerned about a ‘gentleman’s agreement’ which has ensured that the IMF managing director has for 80 years been European and the World Bank president a US national.

Niranjali Amerasinghe, Country Director of ActionAid USA, says, “Kristalina Georgieva’s appointment is a continuation of the colonial era ‘gentleman’s agreement’, where rich western powers have the most say. It is unacceptable that 80 years later we are still having to call this out. The IMF must change its leadership selection process, its decision-making model, and the harmful practices that keep developing countries in a cycle of crisis. As the climate crisis wreaks havoc, global South countries are so deep in debt that they cannot adapt to these impacts. We are calling for debt cancellation and tax justice to help these countries free up the finances needed to build resilience to climate impacts.”

“We need to see an overhaul of the international financial architecture with a proper debt workout mechanism, a UN tax convention, to ensure global South governments have a say over policies impacting them disproportionately.”

EFF Condemns IHR’s K600 salary Offer to Suffering Mopani Miners

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EFF Condemns IHR’s K600 salary Offer to Suffering Mopani Miners
Mopani copper mines
File:President Hichilema at the re-launch of Mopani Copper Mines in partnership with International Resource Holdings (IRH) from Abu Dhabi.

In a strong denouncement of what they deem as an insult to the hardworking miners of MOPANI Copper Mines, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have condemned the K600 salary offer presented by IHR, a Dubai-based investor. The offer, which represents a mere 10% salary increment, has been characterized by the EFF as demeaning and unacceptable, considering the dire working conditions endured by Zambian miners.

The promised 25% salary increment, which was initially seen as a beacon of hope for the suffering miners, has been callously disregarded by IHR, according to the EFF. In response, the EFF demands immediate intervention from the UPND government led by President Hakainde Hichilema to compel IHR to honor the promised increment and address the appalling working conditions at MOPANI Copper Mines.

The EFF highlights the alarming discrepancy in wages between Zambian miners and their counterparts in neighboring countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Africa, where miners earn more than double their Zambian counterparts. This wage stagnation coupled with soaring living costs leaves Zambian miners struggling to support themselves and their families.

Below is the Full Press statement
As the Economic Freedom Fighters-EFF, we stand in staunch condemnation of the insulting and demeaning K600 offer presented by IHR, the Dubai-based investor, to the suffering miners of MOPANI Copper Mines. This offer, representing a mere 10% salary increment, is a slap in the face of hardworking Zambian miners who have endured deplorable working conditions for far too long.

We demand that the UPND government under President Hakainde Hichilema immediately intervenes and compels IHR to honor the promised 25% salary increment, as well as to address the abhorrent working conditions at MOPANI Copper Mines. The promise of improved conditions and fair compensation was the beacon of hope for these miners, yet it has been callously disregarded by IHR.

It is unacceptable that Zambian miners are now among the lowest-paid in the region, with counterparts in the D.R. Congo and South Africa earning more than double their wages. The cost of living in Zambia has soared, yet the wages of these hardworking individuals remain stagnant and insufficient to support themselves and their families.

Therefore, we issue the following demands:

1. IHR must immediately honor the promised K2,500 salary increment and abandon the insulting offer of a mere K600 increase.

2. The UPND government must reject any offer by IHR to acquire 50% shares in Konkola Copper Mines (KCM), as consolidating our major mines under one foreign investor poses significant risks to our national sovereignty and economic stability.

3. We call upon the Hakainde Hichilema administration to subject the sale of MOPANI Copper Mines to IHR to parliamentary approval, as it currently stands as an illegal transaction in violation of the Zambian Constitution.

The exploitation of Zambian miners by foreign investors cannot be tolerated any longer. The Economic Freedom Fighters-EFF will continue to advocate for the rights and dignity of our workers, and we expect nothing less than immediate action from the government to rectify this injustice.

Wherever we want to go our feet will take us there.

Kasonde Mwenda C
Economic Freedom Fighters-EFF President.

President Hichilema Courts Clergy In Mongu

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President Hichilema Courts Clergy In Mongu

President Hichilema concluded his tour of Mongu , with a meeting with local clergy, urging them to promote unity in diversity among the citizens. e explained that social development had been difficult to achieve without economic progress, which had been hindered over the last two years by the huge debt The UPND Government inherited.

The President said the debt rescheduling initiated upon taking office involved complex networking between Eastern and Western Nations and other creditors, which has since yielded positive results, creating the necessary leeway to invest in the social sector.

President Hichilema expressed his desire for the people of Western Province to have job opportunities, emphasizing that this would only be possible if economic development was allowed in the region; otherwise, the province risked falling behind the rest of the country. He implored the Church to collaborate with government in mitigating the effects of drought by providing social safety nets for the people.

ACC Arrest Corrupt Police Officer

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ACC Arrest Corrupt Police Officer

Sergeant Susan Yuyi of the Zambia Police Service has been arrested by the Anti-Corruption Commission on charges of Abuse of Authority of Office and Corrupt Practices by a Public Officer involving K50,000.00.

In a statement, Head of Corporate Communication at the Anti-Corruption Commission, Timothy Moono said the 30-year-old Police officer, from Kabulonga Police Post is facing one count of Abuse of Authority of Office and three counts of Corrupt Practices by a Public Officer.
Mr Moono explained that the charges against Sergeant Yuyi are serious and span from January 1, 2023, to April 18, 2024, in Lusaka.
He further explained that it is alleged that, she abused her authority by falsifying complaints against certain individuals within the Police Service and solicited and received substantial sums of money from them in exchange for resolving these fictitious matters.

“Between March 30, 2024, and April 18, 2024, Sergeant Yuyi was accused of soliciting K50,000.00 from a named individual and receiving K30,000.00 as a reward for allegedly resolving a matter with the Zambia Police in their favour,’’ he stated.

He disclosed that the K30,000.00 bribe was seized by the Anti-Corruption Commission during a sting operation.
Mr Moono noticed that despite her arrest, Sergeant Yuyi has been granted release on police bond pending her upcoming court appearance.

He further said that the authorities have issued a stern reminder to all public officers to uphold the principles of integrity and professionalism in the discharge of their duties to avoid similar legal troubles.

2024 Kuomboka Ceremony Sponsors Applauded

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2024 Kuomboka Ceremony Sponsors Applauded

Kuomboka ceremony 2024

The Kuomboka – Kufuluhela Committee has thanked all stakeholders that came on board to sponsor the 2024 Kuomboka ceremony of the Lozi people in Western Province.

Kuomboka – Kufuluhela Committee National Chairperson, Nathaniel Mubukwanu expressed his appreciation to the sponsors on behalf of the committee at the royal banquet that was hosted by the Litunga, Lubosi Imwiko II of Western Province at the palace grounds in Limulunga royal Village.

The banquet was sponsored by Zambeef Products Public Limited Company (PLC), Termites Meat Supplies and Trade Kings.
Mr Mubukwanu said without support from the sponsors it would not have been possible for the committee to host the Kuomboka ceremony and the royal banquet.

He mentioned some of the sponsors as Peace Park Foundation, Export Trading Group (ETG), First National Bank (FNB), Country Millers, Home Coming USA, Bio-Carbon Partners, UPND West, Mansa Sugar, Liseli Lodge, Smart Pharmacy, University of Barotseland and African Parks among others.

Zambeef Products PLC Executive Corporate Affairs and Sustainability officer, Ezekiel Sekele disclosed that the passion for his company was to feed the nation sustainably.

Mr Sekele said that Zambeef remains committed to driving innovations at its farms and also to research in order to find alternative ways to support the national food security agenda.

He said Zambeef prides itself in food safety and production of very high-quality food products.

“We thank the Litunga for giving us a conducive environment for doing our business and in this regard, it will grow,” Mr Sekela said.

Meanwhile, Termites Meat Supplies representative, Chishala Malekano said that his Kitwe based company was established in 2014, adding that it was Zambian owned and started operating in Western Province in 2020.

Mr Malekano explained that when the company started operating in the province, it discovered that the livestock farmers were faced with the challenge of travelling long distances when taking the animals to the abattoirs.

He said that Termites Meat Suppliers then established bulking centres in seven districts in the province in view of taking the market closer to the farmers.

Mr Malekano added that the company provides transport to the centres to collect cattle and the farmers free of charge and take them to their two abattoirs in Limulunga district.

Mr Malekano explained that at the abattoir, farmers are provided with accommodation and food until they are paid.
He also said that the company is currently constructing a feed load in Limulunga that will be accommodating 1,000 animals at a time which will be increasing the number of animals to be bought from the farmers and also add value to them.

“All this could not have been possible without the support of his Majesty and the Barotse Royal Establishment,” Mr Malekano said.

After the royal banquet, assorted gifts were presented to Paramount Chief Chiti Mukulu of the Bemba speaking people.

Security Forces Urged Not To Compromise Standards

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Security Forces Urged Not To Compromise Standards

Deputy Army Commander and Chief of Staff, Major General, Geoffrey Zyeele has called on the training staff at the Kenneth Kaunda Peace Training Center not to compromise on quality and standard of training such as physical fitness for the officers on the United Nations peace keeping mission to the Central African Republic (CAR).

Speaking when he officially opened the Zambian Battalion (ZAMBATT )Ten, Pre- deployment training of 1,268 officers at the Kenneth Kaunda Peace Training Centre in Chongwe, Maj General Zyeele disclosed that the training will last for ten weeks with a farewell parade scheduled for 5th July.

Maj Gen Zyeele said that the training will cover both individual and unit training which will culminate into a command post exercise and a field training exercise.

He further stated that the training will also demand for the trainees to bring forth their conventional military warfare knowledge and skills needed for the successful performance of their duties in the mission area.

‘’May l also indicate that we shall transition from the female engagement training package to the United Nations engagement platoon package. The concept is similar except that the latter shall also include male peacekeepers,’’he said.

Mj General Zyeele has thanked the Zambia Army Headquarters command and its cooperating partners such as, the British High Commission and the United States whose collaborative effort will enhance the quality of training for the troops.
Speaking at the same event, Kenneth Kaunda Peace Training Centre Commandant, Brigadier General, Telekanko Banda urged the troops to approach the training with the seriousness it deserves as it will play a major role in the success of the mission abroad.

And British High Commission to Zambia Deputy Head of Mission, Urmar Awer, emphasized on the need for the troops on a mission to strive to save innocent citizens against hostile forces and also delivering medicines and other supplies.
Meanwhile, United States of America Assistant Defence Attache, Christopher Kimble, said the United Nations has been supporting ZAMBATT Pre -deployment training and many other training joint ventures since time immemorial.

Ministry Of Mines Paul Kabuswe Commends New Investor At Mopani Copper Mines

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Ministry Of Mines Paul Kabuswe Commends New Investor At Mopani Copper Mines
Mopani copper mines
Mopani Mine

The Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development has expressed gratitude to the new investor, International Resources Holding (IRH) for the commitment to Mopani Copper Mines.

Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Paul Kabuswe says the Government and the new investor are working in partnership to revitalize Mopani copper mines.

Speaking during a press briefing held at the Ministry , Mr Kabuswe said significant investments have been made in Mopani Copper Mines and the deal has significantly benefited Zambia with a fair shareholding structure now in place.

And Mr Kabuswe has noted that criticism from certain politicians lack substance and aims at undermining progress and has since urged the constructors and its workers to focus on constructive criticism to support efforts in developing the nation.

Meanwhile, Mr Kabuswe has disclosed that the Ministry of Mines has coordinated with other ministries such as Labor and Commerce to ensure alignment in its effort to support the mining sector and its stakeholders.

Mr Kabuswe added that recent negotiations between the union and Mopani management regarding workers’ conditions are ongoing.

President Hakainde Hichilema officially unveiled International Resources Holding, the new strategic equity partner for Mopani Copper Mines last month.

This revitalization promises to not only invigorate Kitwe but also uplift livelihoods across the Copperbelt and beyond.

“In partnership with International Resource Holdings (IRH) from Abu Dhabi, we are embracing a new era for Mopani Copper Mines. This moment, long awaited by our citizens, is not just a handover but a meticulously negotiated partnership that represents mutual respect and equitable benefits,” had said President Hakainde Hichilema during the unveiling ceremony in Kitwe.

President Hichilema emphasized the importance of Mopani as a crucial asset for Zambia’s economic prosperity. He stressed, “Mopani should not be viewed as a burden but rather as a beacon of growth and opportunity.” This sentiment was echoed by various stakeholders, including local leaders and mining union representatives.

The $1.1 billion investment from IRH marked a significant milestone, being the first substantial investment from the UAE in Zambia, with more expected in green energy and other sectors.

To support local suppliers, Mopani initiated a Supplier Development Program aimed at bolstering the capacity of Zambian suppliers by providing access to capital and business development services.

Moreover, the significant reduction of Mopani’s debt from $1.5 billion to $576 million under the UPND administration underscores a commitment to financial stability and responsible management. Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe affirmed, “The challenges plaguing the mining sector are now being addressed, marking a positive turnaround for the country.”

“The partnership with IRH has been met with widespread optimism and support from various stakeholders,” noted Ali Rashid, CEO of IHR. He expressed excitement about the opportunities ahead at Mopani, emphasizing the positive impact the partnership will have on the local economy.

Western Province Roads To Be Developed To Bituminous Standards

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Western Province Roads To Be Developed To Bituminous Standards

The National Assembly Committee on National Economy Trade and Labour matters says the road network in Western province has to be developed to bituminous standards.

Committee Chairperson, who is also Mwandi Constituency Member of Parliament in Western Province, Sibeso Sefulo said there is a correlation between good road network and economic development to the local people.

Ms Sefulo, who led the delegation of Members of Parliament in the committee, said this during a courtesy call on Western Province administration to give a briefing on their assignment in the region.

She said the committee intends to appreciate the impact of fiscal decentralization on the economy following the devolution of function to the local authority.

Ms Sefulo called for the need to develop roads, stating that some still need attention.

She stated that a good road network is vital in realizing development through the various empowerment programmes that the government is unfolding to the local people.

‘’We have been on these roads, so for us to see just the impact our roads have to be done because if we are empowering people and our farmers, they need to take their produce to other places where they can sell,” Ms Sefulo said.

She said the team will visit Mongu, Nkeyema and Senanga districts in the region.

“There has been a lot of development from the local authorities as regards to Constituency Development Fund and so many functions that have been devolved to the local people, so we want to appreciate and understand how the decentralization is impacting them,” she said.

And Western Province Minister, Kapelwa Mbangweta, who welcomed the committee, said he was delighted with the engagement, stating that it will allow the delegation to understand the details in the province.
Mr Mbangweta said he was hopeful that the delegation will raise pressure to see an improvement on the road network in the region.

Over 6,000 Metric Tonnes of Early Maize Delivered to FRA

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Over 6,000 Metric Tonnes of Early Maize Delivered to FRA

In a significant boost to Zambia’s efforts towards food security, commercial farmers have delivered over 6,000 metric tonnes of early maize to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) under the Early Maize Programme.

The delivery, equivalent to 121,614 fifty-kilogram bags of non-genetically modified Grade A white maize, marks a crucial milestone in the country’s response to the prevailing drought situation. This achievement comes after Republican President Hakainde Hichilema launched the early maize harvest programme on March 18th, 2024, at SADOT Farms in Mkushi District.

Under the auspices of this special programme, 55 commercial farmers were contracted to cultivate maize, aiming to address the challenges posed by the drought and bolster national food security. The FRA’s target procurement stands at 146,000 metric tonnes, with the recent delivery of 6,080.73 metric tonnes representing a significant step towards meeting this goal.

The remaining balance is anticipated to be delivered by the conclusion of June this year, ensuring a steady supply of maize to replenish national strategic food reserves.

Initiated by the government through the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), in collaboration with the FRA, the Early Maize Programme serves as a strategic intervention to supplement existing initiatives aimed at ensuring sustained national food security.

Beyond mitigating the impact of drought, the programme seeks to stimulate maize production by encouraging commercial farmers to engage in both rain-fed and irrigated early maize cultivation. Leveraging modern irrigation and mechanized drying technologies, the initiative enables farmers to produce maize during lean periods of the year, enhancing overall agricultural resilience.

Operating under a contract-farming model, the programme offers incentives such as cost-reflective pricing, incentivizing farmer participation and commitment to production targets.

The FRA remains optimistic that the successful implementation of the Early Maize Programme will yield positive outcomes, bolstering national strategic food reserves and safeguarding Zambia’s food security in the face of external challenges.

President Hichilema joins worshipers at the Mongu Parish

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President Hichilema joins worshipers at the Mongu Parish

President Hichilema joined hundreds of Catholic faithful at a worship service in Mongu Parish.

The President said it was heartwarming to see the Catholic Church’s efforts to integrate indigenous song and dance into their services, as well as their unwavering commitment to gender balance throughout the process. he said these practices are commendable and worth emulating, not only within the Church but also in other spheres of life, including government.

His Grace Bishop Chinyemba emphasized the core attributes of a Good Shepherd as servitude, social justice, honesty, unity, love, forgiveness, and reconciliation as central values.He said you cannot be a good Shepherd if you do not love the people you serve. Similarly, you cannot be a good servant if you do not reciprocate with hard work, and indeed, you cannot be a good Shepherd if you steal from the people.

President Hichilema said that as representatives of the government and the people of Zambia, he will heed and adhere to these principles.

 

 

State calls for punitive action against hate speech

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State calls for punitive action against hate speech

Kwibuka 30
Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima at the 30th commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi dubbed Kwibuka30

By Benedict Tembo
Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima has urged governments worldwide to enact strict laws to hold individuals and organisations accountable for spreading hate speech on social media platforms.Mr Syakalima noted that in this digital age, social media platforms have become powerful tools for communication and connection.

“However, they have also been misused to propagate hate speech and incite violence.
We must acknowledge the role that social media played in fueling the genocide and take decisive action to prevent history from repeating itself,” he said.

Speaking at the 30th commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Lusaka dubbed Kwibuka30 on Friday, Mr Syakalima said the occasion was reminiscent of the horrors of hate and division that tore Rwanda apart.

“In this respect, I wish to emphasise that hate speech is one of the factors that was identified by the United Nations to have been the mechanism through which the Hutu militia mobilised their forces to unleash the war of terror upon the Tutsi. I therefore wish to take this opportunity to call upon our respective governments to remind them that as our citizens express themselves freely and participate in public discourse without fear, we must ensure that this freedom comes with responsibility,” he said.

Mr Syakalima said the world cannot allow hate speech to go unchecked, whether it is spread online or offline.
“Thus, strict laws have to be enacted to hold individuals and organisations accountable for spreading hate speech on social media platforms. I therefore wish to take this opportunity to call upon our respective governments to remind them that as our citizens express themselves freely and participate in public discourse without fear, we must ensure that this freedom comes with responsibility,” he said.

Mr Syakalima said the world cannot allow hate speech to go unchecked, whether it is spread online or offline.
“Thus strict laws have to be enacted to hold individuals and organisations accountable for spreading hate speech on social media platforms,” he said.

Mr Syakalima expressed happiness that against the background of the atrocities that were committed against the Tutsi and other incidences of genocide, there are also stories of hope, resilience, and reconciliation. “The Zambian government has witnessed and noted how Rwanda has emerged from the ashes of genocide to become a beacon of progress and transformation which most African countries respect and applaud,” he said.

Mr Syakalima noted that through visionary leadership, a commitment to justice and reconciliation, and the resilience of its people, Rwanda has shown the world that healing and rebuilding are possible, even in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
“Today, as we remember the victims of the genocide against the Tutsi, let us also renew our commitment to building a world where every individual is valued, where diversity is celebrated, and where the horrors of genocide are consigned to the darkest pages of history. in honouring the memory of those we lost, let us also honour their legacy by working tirelessly to build a future of peace, justice, and reconciliation for everyone,” he said.

Charge d’Affaires at the Rwanda High Commission in Lusaka Douglas Gakumba said the under the theme “Remember, Unite and Renew”,
Rwandans, home and abroad continue the 100 days of remembrance that started on April 7 this year.

“The 30th commemoration marks a generational cycle since the genocide was put to an end, and is an opportune time for a call to reflect on the transformational journey that Rwanda has undergone in the last thirty years, building on the legacy of strength, resilience, and unity that the new generation is called upon to sustain and carry forward to adapt to today’s global challenges and future aspirations,” Mr Gakumba said.

He said Rwanda continues to advocate for the inclusion of course lessons about the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in schools to educate the young and the next generation on the need to fight hate ideologies and stand against any form of discrimination and divisionism.

“For Rwandans, Kwibuka30 is an opportunity for every Rwandan to face the past and prevent intergenerational transmission of traumas through dialogue and remembrance,” Mr Gakumba said.

Bishop Joshua Banda speaking at the 30th commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi dubbed Kwibuka30

And Bishop Joshua Banda, the Overseer of the Northmead Assembly of God said the journey of renewal is ongoing, marked by both triumphs and setbacks.

“But as we commemorate this solemn 30th anniversary, let us draw inspiration from Rwanda’s example and rededicate ourselves to the pursuit of justice, reconciliation, and peace. As we remember, unite, and renew, let us pledge to a sustainable honour of the memory of the victims of the Rwandan Genocide, by building a world where such atrocities can never happen again,” Bishop Banda said in his homily.

He added:”Let us strive to be agents of change, advocates for peace, and champions of justice. Let us never forget that in the face of darkness, it is our shared humanity that ultimately prevails. And, to that end, may the pathway of renewal lead us to a future of peace and prosperity for all.”

Luanshya 28 Mine Shaft Project Explained

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Luanshya 28 Mine Shaft Project Explained

President Hakainde Hichilema recently commissioned the process of de-watering the flooded 28 Shaft at Chinese-owned CNMC Luanshya Copper Mines in Luanshya.

The pumping out of water from 28 Shaft will pave the way for the commencement of actual copper mining at the site which has been dormant for over 20 years.

According to CNMC Luanshya Copper Mines – Manager Corporate Affairs – Sydney Chileya, the $500 Million project will see water pumped out from 14 and 18 Shafts that are aligned to the famous 28 Shaft.

Mr. Chileya has revealed that the process of pumping out water from the three shafts is expected to commence on April 29 and will last between 18 and 21 months.

At the peak of the project about 3000 jobs are anticipated to be created.

“That project will create about 3000 jobs in total, which will be about 1,800 direct jobs and 1,200 contractual jobs. The 28 shaft is going to have its own concentrator, so we are constructing a concentrator about two to three kilometers away from 28 Shaft. That is a treatment plant for the copper to be coming from 28 Shaft,” Mr. Chileya told Radio Icengelo News.

“The moment we start pumping out water, workers will be needed to re-equip the mine. The 3000 jobs we are talking about is at the peak of this project. This is about three or four years from now. As soon as we start pumping out water you will see job creation going up,” he said.

At the back of the latest developments at 28 Shaft, CLM in 2022 commissioned a feasibility study over the possibility of re-opening the shaft.

Experts say the three shafts hold about 170,000, 000 cubic meters of water to be pushed out by 15 tailor-made pumps.

Water from 14 Shaft will flow into Luanshya River as Makoma Dam receives water from 18 shaft and water from 28 shaft will be channeled to Nkulumashiba River.

Unlike the closed up Makoma Dam, Nkulumashiba River and Luanshya River are tributaries of the Kafue River.

Therefore, water from 14 and 28 shafts will eventually find its way into the Kafue River.

Of all the presidents; how did Edgar Lungu walk away from State House a rich man?

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Of all the presidents; how did Edgar Lungu walk away from State House a rich man?

When attending church service at the Reformed Church in Zambia – RCZ Chipata Main branch in Eastern province the other week, former president Edgar Lungu encouraged citizens, in his own words, to “pray for politicians to reduce on lying.”

“Today, lying has become a culture among politicians in the country,” he told the congregation.

While we concur with him that leaders ought to always remain truthful although we are not quite sure exactly what lies he was referring to; we’d equally encourage him to confess to us how he managed to amass so much wealth within the short period he was in State House. Going by the shockingly staggering amounts he was able to hand-out to his family members as revealed by themselves, we’re left with little doubt but to buy into word on the streets, ba Lungu has actually earned himself a place at the high table as one of Africa’s richest!

But how on earth did this individual who was just running a bar in Chawama called “Edgars” and of course, chasing after elusive cases as a struggling lawyer manage to walk away from State House a rich man when his predecessors couldn’t do so? Shouldn’t we be contemplating stripping him off of his immunity so that he’s given an opportunity to explain to us how he made ‘his’ money?

Anyway, since we love to speak with facts as much as possible, we shall seek to probe further and consider how the other former First families are doing compared to this ‘industrious’ family!

Our first Republican president Kenneth Kaunda had 8 children with his dear lovely wife, mama Betty Kaunda. She was a perfect example of a First Lady – totally unblemished character and devoid of any scandals! While others have entangled themselves in controversial escapeds in the recent past; travelling as farther afield as the USA to receive outdated fire tenders, on behalf of government, that are better off remaining in a museum or indeed poking their nose in the affairs of the state and gracing campaign rallies, Mama Betty confined herself to Nkwazi house (official residence of the president) managing the affairs of the house.

Of all the Kaunda children, only 3 of them could be said to have been in the limelight – Panji, Wezi and Tilwenji. Panji is a graduate from the prestigious Sandhurst Military Academy in the UK. After enjoying an illustrious career in the military, he quietly retired to farming in rural Sinda, Eastern province while Wezi, who had followed into his footsteps by becoming a military officer would later metamorphose into a radical politician who didn’t brook any nonsense! Having served as MP, he was poised to succeed his father as opposition UNIP leader before a hail of assassins’ bullets prematurely curtailed his life in his own driveway. The soft-spoken and camera-shy Tilwenji Kaunda who had been dabbling in business eventually took over as UNIP president although he wouldn’t do much to improve its dwindling fortunes.

Apart from getting involved in a shooting incident in a Lusaka surbub that saw one of the Kaunda children, Kambarage getting indicted for murder, there’s absolutely no record of any of the Kaundas appearing before law enforcement authorities for questioning to answer charges of embezzlement or corruption. Kambarage would finally walk away a free man after a superior court ruled that he acted in self-defence, upon appeal.

The man who made KK meet his Waterloo in a case of David vs. Goliath, trade unionist turned politician, Frederick Chiluba had 9 children. Castro was the most notorious, earning himself generous space in the Newspapers for all the wrong reasons – from brandishing firearms in public, shooting callgirls and getting embroiled in physical fights in night clubs, randomly stopping his vehicle on the middle of the road while screaming, “I’m the 2Pac of Zambia!” and flaunting cash in public, wondering why most Zambians were paupers while him and his dad were rich! Like his siblings, Castro wasn’t bothered about earthly possessions – owning mansions in upmarket neighborhoods or boasting of countless fleets of vehicles; he was just a spoilt brat eager to have fan with his friends! The only other sibling who would stir his own fair share of controversy was Miko. In the company of 3 of his friends, they’d entice a girl and make her drunk after which they had what amongst the youngsters is known as ‘kansato’ with her. To the uninitiated, they took turns in sleeping with her for whatever reasons!

Although the second Republican President would suffer the indignity of having his immunity stripped-off for allegedly looting and plundering our national resources, at least we never heard of any of his children forfeiting any illegally acquired property to the state. Apart from his pet project, the so-called Frederick J.T. Chiluba Institute of Democratic and Industrial Studies near UNZA which was forfeited to the state, he didn’t leave behind a profile of impressive properties dotted around Lusaka. While still serving as president, his wife Vera flirted around with the idea of running her own NGO – Hope Foundation, which at times would overshadow the work of government by making forays into forgotten places such as Shan’gombo for her charitable exploits! She left State House without any ominous clouds hovering over her head and would go on to become an MP in Eastern province, of course.

As readers may recall, Levy Mwanawasa had to resign as Vice President citing the ‘horrible stench’ of corruption in Chiluba’s government. Desperate to find a candidate without any tag of corruption attached to their name in the forthcoming elections, with UPND leader Anderson Mazoka breathing heavily on his neck, Chiluba would dispatch emissaries to go and ‘wake up’ Mwanawasa from retirement to be the MMD’s torch bearer in the 2001 crucial elections.

In an election victory widely believed to have been stolen from Mazoka, Mwanawasa who campaigned on the platform of “government of laws other than men” was finally sworn in as President, and he wouldn’t disappoint. He had seven children, altogether. During much of his tenure, his children mostly remained in the dark shadows of State House. It’s only in recent times that we came to know of some of the Mwanawasa children such as Patrick who assumed the role of deputy permanent secretary in the PF regime and Chipo, one of President Hichilema’s aides.

Mwanawasa never shied away from reminding us he was allergic to corruption! True to this, he never entertained the idea of any of his children cutting deals or indeed dipping their hands into the national treasury by whatever means! And today, they’re walking around the streets of Lusaka with their heads held-up. Going by recent revelations that the family almost lost one of their properties due to ‘nkongole’ actually gives credence to assertions that the Mwanawasas never abused their affinity with power to award themselves government contracts or cut deals with those doing business with government.

When the cold hand of death descended on Mwanawasa midway through his term unfortunately, his vice president Rupiah Banda would step into his shoes although he wouldn’t quite fit in. Immediately his government settled in it was rocked by a terrible stench of corruption that went as far as the skies! Banda had 8 children in all – 5 from his previous marriage and 3 from his second union. One of his children, Henry found himself at the centre of controversy, getting his hands dirty with allegations of corruption. With the blessings of his father, he brokered an allegedly corrupt deal in which Kenyan oil trading company Dalbit Petroleum clinched a multimillion-dollar contract to supply finished petroleum products to Zambia in 2009.

Henry was also fingered in a corruption case involving Dora Siliya, the former Minister of Transport & Communications, relating to the controversial appointment of a Cayman Island-registered company to value Zambia’s ­telecommunication assets. The chilling tales of looting did not end there. Henry was further embroiled in yet another scandal as a key figure in a oil deal worth $2.5 million with Nigeria’s Sarb Energy Limited to supply crude oil. The oil never made it to Zambia! He is also said to have been practically in charge of handling campaign funds for his father amounting to millions of dollars whose source remains a matter of speculation. Scared of being sent to jail, Henry would go into self-imposed exile immediately there was a change of government.

On the other hand , his elder brother Andrew would be arrested and sentenced to 2 years imprisonment with hard labour by the Lusaka Magistrates court for corruption relating to soliciting and receiving gratification to facilitate the award of road projects to Fratelli Locci, an Italian road construction firm. He would later challenge the ruling in the Lusaka High Court.

Banda’s spouse,Thandiwe wasn’t so lucky either! She would be arrested and charged for corruption regarding the Mpundu Trust flats, but her gallant lawyers would fight the case in court tooth and nail until she was let-off the hook.

Like Chiluba, the fourth Republican president would have his immunity from prosecution removed. He was arrested and charged for corruption and theft of public resources! As fate would have it, the man that wanted to see Banda behind the bars for his alleged wrong doing finally succumbed to his prolonged illness. After Sata’s demise, the new Edgar Lungu’s administration would immediately discontinue the case and somehow allow him to enjoy his retirement as a reward for having endorsed and campaigned for Edgar Lungu and his Patriotic Front. But we are getting ahead of ourselves, aren’t we?

Anyway, like every human being, President Michael Sata had his own weaknesses; more especially his unjustified reasons for excluding those perceived to be from the Zambezi provinces from his government. However, we award him credit for not regarding the national treasury as his pocket money where he could simply fish-out substantial amounts of money and hand it to his wife, children or girl friends willy-nilly! For instance, when he received intelligence reports that one of his sons was always in the company of some foreign nationals discussing business opportunities, he tasked one of his closest confidants, Wynter Kabimba, to have tete-a-tete with him as he wouldn’t have desired to see any of his children, “be on the run from the authorities like Henry Banda!” once he had left office. Mulenga Sata is probably back to his usual business of selling Germany Shepard’s by now!

Sata atleast had 10 children between two marriages. We have no doubt most of them continue sleeping soundly at night knowing that ba DEC or indeed ba ACC won’t come pounding on their doors, dead of the night, asking questions about their impropriety. As we may all be aware, his medical doctor wife Kaseba formed her own NGO, Ubutala Bwamumi Foundation, to continue pursuing what was closer to her heart – better health for all, particularly those battling cervical cancer. After the death of her husband, she would be deployed into the foreign service until her contract expired, recently. As far as we know, she has no criminal record there’s no criminal record, whatsoever!

This now brings us to our immediate past President Edgar Lungu! Information emerging from the court rooms regarding the Lungus bordering on corruption leaves so much to be desired! In a recent court ruling for instance, one of his daughters, Chiyeso forfeited more than K9 million worth of assets to the state. Among the assets forfeited to the state is Crest Lodge in the affluent Ibex Hill suburb of Lusaka. Apart from this, she lost three flats, two farms with a high cost house and four chicken runs in State Lodge area worth about K9.3 million. Chiyeso who was only admitted to the bar as a lawyer in 2018 could not explain how she acquired the same properties!

As it were, the most prominent child of them all is of course the politician, Tasila. She is equally in court for being in possession of assets suspected to be proceeds of crime! Key findings from investigations outlined in the charge sheet are that, Tasila Lungu’s earnings as a Councilor from 2016 to 2021 amounted to less than K184,966.41, while her declared assets stood at a staggering K6,130,505.58! Furthermore, the valuation of Farm No. F/2278 in Sinda district stood at K8,540,098.00 while the estimated costs of related construction works came to K13,950,378.83 bringing such transactions into question.

In a legal victory for the Director of Public Prosecutions chambers recently, the Economic and Financial Crimes Court (EFCC) dismissed preliminary issues raised by the now Chawama Member of Parliament to have the said farm in Sinda forfeited to the state. The fast-track court is set to deliver judgement on whether the farm should be forfeited to the State or not.

The two sisters are not the only ones in the family to find themselves in conflict with the law. Their beloved brother Daliso along with his wife, both aged 36, were equally nabbed on charges of being in possession of assets suspected to be proceeds of crime contrary to Section 71 of the Forfeiture of Proceeds of Crime Act no. 19 of 2010.

According to Zambia Police Service spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga, the couple’s company, Saloid Trading Limited which they co-own was found to be in possession of 48 motors vehicles valued at K23,258,405.00 and fixed assets valued at K12,825,100.00 while Daliso was facing an extra charge of money laundering. He stands accused of being in possession of 21 motor vehicles with an estimated value of about K1.5 million and fixed assets valued at K31.5 million, all registered in his name! Hamoonga further elaborated that Daliso Lungu has also been arrested and charged with money laundering regarding the alleged deposit of over K23.9 million into their company account, which is held at ZANACO Cairo Business Centre Lusaka Branch. All the offences took place between September 17, 2017 and January 24, 2022 while their father was still in State House. But kwena nangula tapaswosa?

The interesting episode does not end there. Their mother Esther is equally in court for the similar offences. In a recent application to the Economic and Financial Crimes Court, she failed to secure a stay of the forfieture proceedings against her siezed 15 double storey flats situated in Lusaka’s State Lodge area valued at K41.6 million! Mama Esther will in fact be remembered for entrusting $US 400, 000 with her niece in Kabwata for safe keeping instead of taking it to the Bank where there’s little risk of rats chewing it!

Such revelations would make us start believing what Kambwili was saying all along before his route to Damascus; that everywhere where there was construction in Lusaka, there were finger prints of Lungu and his family on them! What is stopping government from considering lifting his immunity so that he is given an opportunity to clear his name in the courts of law?

There’s no doubt ba Lungu presided upon the most corrupt regime; corruption was institutionalised under his watch and he was definitely a partaker! According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) report released January 2023, corruption flourished to alarming levels under the Lungu regime!

” For instance, enormous financial resources invested in infrastructure projects, such as road construction, provided avenues for corruption, especially in the award of tenders, where political connections allowed members of the elite to bend the rules and access to lucrative contracts”, the 96-page report read.

The IMF diagnostic says corruption became particularly institutionalized during the 2016-2021 period.

Surely, can such an individual even have the audacity to say he wants to come back to power? To come and continue looting and plundering our meagre resources!

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Message For Today:Forgiveness Will Free You

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Message For Today:Forgiveness Will Free You

Today’s Scripture

“If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”
John 20:23, NKJV

Forgiveness Will Free You

Friend, after Jesus rose from the dead, He spoke today’s Scripture to His disciples. When you retain someone’s sin, you hold on to it. God was saying that when you hold on to the wrongs people have done to you, the poison contaminates you. When you don’t forgive, the sin you retain that hurt you—that bitterness, anger, hatred, or criticalness—can produce the same results in you.

It can be very hard to forgive, especially when someone has hurt you, but you don’t have to forgive them for their sakes; you forgive for your own sake. Forgiving doesn’t mean you’re excusing anyone or lessening the offense. Forgiveness keeps their poison out of your life and takes away their power to keep hurting you. Forgiveness is about choosing to release the hurt and trust God to make it up to you, so you can claim the amazing future that awaits you. When you forgive someone, you set a prisoner free from chains of anger and bitterness. That prisoner isn’t the person who hurt you; the prisoner is you.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that I can forgive other people of their sins and stay free from the poison it holds. Thank You that I can look to You to heal my hurts and right the wrongs done to me. I declare I won’t let bitterness, anger, or an offense have control over my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

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