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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.”

TP Mazembe players pay tribute to Rainford Kalaba

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TP Mazembe players pay tribute to Rainford Kalaba

TP Mazembe players raised Rainford Kalaba’s Jersey before their semi final game against Al Ahly today, as a way of wishing him a speedy recovery.

Historic Unity Marked at 2024 Kuomboka Ceremony

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Historic Unity Marked at 2024 Kuomboka Ceremony
Kuomboka
While at Matongo, the resting place during the Kuomboka voyage from Lealui to Limulunga, the Litunga poses for a unique photo with Paramount Chief Chitimukulu of the Bembas.

In a display of unity and cultural richness, the 2024 Kuomboka Ceremony, held on Saturday April 20th, witnessed a historic convergence of traditions with their Majesties King Lubosi Imwiko II, the host, and Chitimukulu Kanyanta Manga II, the guest of honor, along with other traditional leaders from across the country.

The Kuomboka Ceremony, a centuries-old tradition among the Lozi people, marks the transition from the flooded plains of Lealui to the elevated grounds of Limulunga, symbolizing resilience and the enduring spirit of the Lozi community. This year’s ceremony, however, took a unique turn due to climate change-induced drought, redirecting the journey to Mulamba Harbour in Mongu.

The Litunga Lubosi Imwiko II with Paramount Chief Chitimukulu Mwine Lubemba Kanyata II during this year’s Kuomboka Ceremony

Among the highlights of the ceremony was the presence of Paramount Chief Chitimukulu Kanyanta Manga II, showcasing a remarkable display of unity between the Lozi and Bemba speaking peoples. This gesture, reciprocated from last year when the Chitimukulu invited the Litunga to be the Guest of Honor at the Ukusefya pa Ng’wena.

President Hakainde Hichilema and various government officials also graced the occasion, emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting traditional ceremonies as a means of fostering unity and preserving cultural heritage.

Minister of Local Governement Gary Nkombo beating the Maoma Royal drums

The majestic procession, led by the Litunga aboard the royal barge Nalikwanda, captivated spectators with its vibrant colors, rhythmic drumming, and intricate symbolism. As thousands gathered along the Zambezi River, the ceremony served as a poignant reminder of Zambia’s rich cultural tapestry and the collective strength of its people.

Amidst the grandeur and pageantry, the Kuomboka Ceremony of 2024 transcended its traditional significance, becoming a beacon of unity and solidarity for all Zambians.

President Hakainde Hichilema (L) Paramount Chief Chiti mukulu Mwine Lubemba Kanyata the second during this year’s Kuomboka Ceremony of the Lozi people at Mulamba harbour in Mongu Western Province.

President Hakainde Hichilema (R)interact with Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Muti (L) second during this year’s Kuomboka Ceremony of the Lozi people at Mulamba harbour in Mongu Western Province.

The Royal Budge (Nalikwanda) docks at the Mulamba harbor in Mongu, Western Province during this year’s Kuomboka ceremony.

Part of the crowd during the Kuomboka ceremony

The Litunga Lubosi Imwiko II with Paramount Chief Chitimukulu Mwine Lubemba Kanyata II during this year’s Kuomboka Ceremony of the Lozi people at Mulamba harbour in Mongu Western Province.

President Hichilema Extols Unity and Heritage in Courtesy Call Ahead of Kuomboka Ceremony

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President Hichilema Extols Unity and Heritage in Courtesy Call Ahead of Kuomboka Ceremony

President Hakainde Hichilema expressed gratitude and paid homage during a courtesy call on His Majesty, the Litunga at Lealui, ahead of the Kuomboka Ceremony scheduled for Saturday 20th April.. Despite the challenges posed by climate change, which has affected the Barotse plains, President Hichilema lauded the resilience of the people of Bulozi in ensuring the continuity of the revered tradition.

Reflecting on decades of attending the Kuomboka Ceremony, President Hichilema underscored its significance as a cherished heritage and a symbol of national pride. However, he lamented the adverse impact of climate change on the ceremony’s traditional setting.

In discussions with His Majesty, the Litunga, President Hichilema reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the development agenda of Barotseland. He pledged to prioritize infrastructure development in Western Province, emphasizing the government’s aim to ensure equitable progress across all regions.

Furthermore, President Hichilema encouraged the participation of traditional leaders from various parts of Zambia in such ceremonies, citing their role in fostering national unity and cohesion under the banner of “one Zambia, one Nation.”

President Hichilema pays a courtesy call on His Royal Highness, Paramount Chief Chitimukulu who is in Mongu for this year’s Kuomboka Ceremony

Following the meeting with the Litunga, President Hichilema extended gratitude to His Royal Highness, Paramount Chief Chitimukulu, for his presence at the upcoming Kuomboka Ceremony in Mongu. He emphasized the importance of such gatherings in promoting unity amidst Zambia’s diverse cultural landscape.

President Hichilema concluded by expressing appreciation to both the Litunga and the people of Bulozi for the opportunity to partake in the Kuomboka Traditional Ceremony, underscoring the significance of such cultural events in Zambia’s national fabric.

President Hichilema when arrived in Mongu for the Kuomboka ceremony

Apocalyptic Dubai floods shake picture-perfect city

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Apocalyptic Dubai floods shake picture-perfect city
Vehicles sit abandoned in floodwater covering a major road in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, April 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

If Dubai is the ultimate Instagram city, then this was the week the filter came off.

Over an unprecedented 48 hours, the skies over the United Arab Emirates darkened and torrential storms washed away Dubai’s picture-perfect image.

About 25cm (10in) of rain – roughly twice the UAE’s yearly average – fell in a single day, leaving much of the city’s outdoor infrastructure under water.

Jordache Ruffels, a British expat living in Dubai, told BBC News experiencing the storms was like “living through the apocalypse”.

He watched from his apartment overlooking the city’s usually tranquil marina as furniture was flung from balconies by gale-force winds and Rolls Royce cars were abandoned on roads suddenly transformed into rivers.

“We live high up and could barely see a thing past the balcony… It felt like midnight in the middle of the afternoon,” he said.

A cluster of four large storms, each of them towering 15km (9 miles) into the atmosphere and fuelled by a powerful jet streams, rolled into the UAE one after another, according to forecasters at BBC Weather.

Heavy rainfall over the desert landscape of the Gulf is not unheard of, and residents were warned via a public alert system – but Dubai’s weather infrastructure was unprepared for the worst rain since 1949.

In many ways, few modern cities would have coped with the size of the deluge that hit Dubai this week.

The city’s top attractions – largely indoors to protect from the searing heat – struggled to handle the sudden influx of water.

Caroline Seubert, 29, from the UK, was with her husband at a shopping centre when the storm hit.

“The mall was flooded, ceilings were collapsing,” she said. “We were told to leave, but the metro was shut and the taxis were not running.

“We were stranded, had to sleep in the mall lobby overnight.”

Matt Weir, a British teacher who has been based in Dubai for 10 years, said “people were aware” a storm was coming but the force of it left “neighbourhoods under water”.
While the forecast looks more typically blue and sunny for the week ahead, some storms remain possible – and with roads and other infrastructure still crippled, Dubai’s rulers are counting the cost.

The UAE’s President Sheikh Mohammed bin Nahyan issued a public order for “authorities to quickly work on studying the condition of infrastructure throughout the UAE and to limit the damage caused”.

Government employees have been told to work from home until the end of the week, while private firms have been encouraged to do the same. Schools across the country have been shuttered.

So far, the official death toll in the UAE is just one person – an elderly man who died when his vehicle was swept away in Ras Al Khaimah, according to local media.
Some of the worst disruption has been at Dubai International Airport, the world’s second busiest, where nearly 90 million people – more than the population of Germany – are expected to pass through in 2024.

It is an important hub for travel to the Gulf and connecting flights heading further afield – but witnesses say it has descended into bedlam after the floods.

A flooded taxiway meant planes were unable to reach the runway to take off and passengers were left stranded in the terminal building.

The country’s state-owned airline Emirates was forced to stop accepting check-in passengers at all. While it has since re-opened check-in, it says many passengers “are still waiting to get on flights”.
Jo Reilly is among the travellers left in limbo. The 41-year-old was flying back to the UK from Vietnam via Dubai with her daughters Holly, 13, and Ruby, nine, when the storm struck.

After two-and-a-half hours circling over the Gulf waiting for a chance to land, they eventually landed at another Dubai airport, before being told in the middle of the night to get on a bus to head for their original destination.

She told BBC News her daughters “were practically crushed in a stampede as hundreds of desperate people were fighting for a seat on the coach”.

Once they eventually reached Dubai International Airport, the situation was no better. Jo said: “We asked can we have water, can we have food? Nothing. There’s nothing here. People are really, really in a bad way.

“We’ve been told it’s Sunday night the earliest we can get home and apparently we’re quite lucky to have that option.
“Emirates are saying there are no hotel rooms so I said, ‘Oh, so we’re just to carry on sleeping on the floor?’ And they said, ‘Yes, go make yourself comfortable over there’ and pointed to the corner of the check-in area.”
Jonathan Finchett, also from the UK, described “apocalyptic” scenes in the airport, where people were arriving to find their flights had been cancelled.

He told BBC News he saw families “barricading themselves behind a circle of luggage trolleys to keep themselves safe because they didn’t feel that safe because there was absolutely no staff”.

Queues at ticket desks were “pure chaos”, he said, adding: “There were hundreds of people stampeding towards this, like a crush. All of a sudden you had women screaming saying they couldn’t breathe.”
Emirates said it appreciated “how difficult it is for everyone affected” and that schedules were returning to normal.

Dubai International Airport said: “As much as possible, we’ve been providing necessary assistance and amenities to affected guests but due to road blockages, it’s taken longer than we would have liked.”

As for how things are now in the city, Jordache Ruffels said things had “practically returned to normal” after swift action by the authorities. “There’s a sense of unity and togetherness in times like this,” he added.

The storms hit a Dubai – home to 3.5m people – which would be unrecognisable to the 100,000 residents who called it home in the 1970s, before the oil boom.

Source:BBC

Measles Outbreak Hits Chasefu District in Eastern Province

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Measles Outbreak Hits Chasefu District in Eastern Province
measles vaccination
FLASHBACK: A child receives measles immunisation during the child health week in Lusaka

Measles has struck Chasefu District, situated in the Eastern Province of Zambia, with 33 suspected cases reported in the area, indicating an ongoing outbreak.

According to Jacob Banda, the District Surveillance Officer, among the 11 samples collected and sent to the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) in Lusaka for examination, four have tested positive for measles. Banda revealed this information during an Epidemic Preparedness Meeting held at Emusa Day Secondary School.

Banda emphasized that the confirmation of two positive tests out of five suspected cases solidifies the existence of the outbreak. The first case was reported in March at Lusuntha Rural Health Center, and since then, there has been a concerning increase in cases.

Furthermore, Banda disclosed that an outbreak of rash in Phikamalaza has also been recorded, although it has not yet been officially classified as measles.

In response to the outbreak, Aaron Mwango, the Chasefu District Health Director, stated that his office is strategizing to engage the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI) to contain the spread of the disease. This proactive measure aims to swiftly address the situation and prevent further escalation of the outbreak.

The health authorities in Chasefu District are working diligently to implement containment measures and ensure the safety and well-being of the community members. Efforts are underway to provide necessary medical interventions and raise awareness about preventive measures against measles.

ACC to Appeal Given Lubinda’s Acquittal on Corruption Charges

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ACC to Appeal Given Lubinda’s Acquittal on Corruption Charges

Given Lubinda

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has announced its decision to appeal the acquittal of former Justice Minister Given Lubinda on charges related to the possession of properties deemed to be proceeds of crime. ACC Head of Corporate Communications, Timothy Moono, made the announcement during a media briefing held in Lusaka.

Mr. Lubinda was acquitted of the charge of possession of properties, which were alleged to be proceeds of crime, amounting to over $200,000. The ACC has expressed its intention to study the court judgment thoroughly before launching the appeal process.

The decision to appeal comes after the Economic and Financial Crimes Court acquitted Mr. Lubinda of corruption charges on April 18, 2024. The court ruled that the properties acquired by Mr. Lubinda were not proceeds of crime but were legally acquired. It cited that funds received by Mr. Lubinda in his dollar account were in respect of a loan facility entered into by his company, Highview Investment, with Qingdao Ruichang Cotton Company.

The state had accused Mr. Lubinda of receiving $50,000 from China Africa Cotton Limited and $180,000 from Qingdao Ruichang Cotton Industrial Company Limited, alleging that these funds were proceeds of crime. However, the court found that they were part of a legitimate loan arrangement.

In addition to the appeal against Mr. Lubinda’s acquittal, the ACC provided updates on its recent activities. Over the past three months, the commission has seized 68 motor vehicles valued at over 41 million Kwacha in connection with various cases under investigation. Additionally, 25 motor vehicles valued at 20 million Kwacha were forfeited to the state.

Mr. Moono explained that these motor vehicles were recovered during investigations and subsequently forfeited to the state after the expiration of a Gazette Notice for the owners to claim them. The ACC’s efforts underscore its commitment to combating corruption and recovering assets obtained through illicit means.

University Teaching Hospital (UTH) Provides Positive Update on Rainford Kalaba’s Condition

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University Teaching Hospital (UTH) Provides Positive Update on Rainford Kalaba’s Condition
Rainford Kalaba former Zambia National Team Captain
Rainford Kalaba former Zambia National Team Captain

The University Teaching Hospital (UTH) has reported a significant improvement in the condition of Rainford Kalaba.As of April 18, 2024, Mr. Kalaba’s health notably improved, with his condition now stable.

According to Nzeba Chanda, the Public Relations Officer at UTH-Adult, Mr. Kalaba achieved a milestone by consuming his first meal since his admission. Additionally, he is fully conscious and able to engage in conversation, marking a positive turn in his recovery journey.

Despite these positive developments, the medical team at UTH remains vigilant, providing continuous monitoring and attentive care to ensure Mr. Kalaba’s ongoing recovery and well-being. The hospital administration has reassured the public that they will continue to provide regular updates on Mr. Kalaba’s condition, underscoring their commitment to transparency and accountability.

Rainford Kalaba, the former Zambia National Team captain was left in a critical condition after a tragic accident on Saturday April 13,2024 along the Great North Road at Kafue S Corners near Kafue Quarry.

According to Police Public Relations Officer,Rae Hamoonga, the incident involved a Howo truck horse and an unregistered Mercedes Benz car.

Mr. Muyunda Isaac, aged 32 years, of Kamwala South, was driving the Howo truck whilst a woman identified as Charlene Mkandawire was driving a Mercedes Benz car, unregistered, from south to north direction.Tragically, she succumbed to her injuries at the scene of the accident.The passenger Rainford Kalaba was onboard the Mercedes Benz vehicle. He sustained suspected internal injuries and was promptly transported to UTH for urgent medical attention.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the accident occurred as a result of improper overtaking by the Benz car, leading to a collision with the oncoming truck.Ealier that day the Mercedes Benz was seen being driven erratically.

5000 Condoms Distributed At CBU After Rise in Sexually Transmitted Infections

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5000 Condoms Distributed At CBU After Rise in Sexually Transmitted Infections

In a bid to address the rising prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among students, the Copperbelt University (CBU) main campus in Kitwe has been distributing over 5,000 condoms every month. This initiative comes as the university grapples with a student population of approximately 15,000.

According to Charity Kaziya, the Acting Head of Public Health at CBU, the condom distribution program aims to tackle the alarming rates of STIs prevalent among students. Kaziya emphasized that the distribution is facilitated by a team of 50 trained peer educators, ensuring accessibility for all students.

Kaziya further explained that the university has observed a notable uptick in sexual activities among students, prompting the establishment of a youth-friendly corner within the public health office. This dedicated space will provide students with essential information on sexual and reproductive health, fostering a supportive environment for addressing related concerns.

Additionally, the CBU Public Health Department has identified a concerning trend regarding the misuse of emergency contraceptives, commonly referred to as morning-after pills, among students. Matildah Lukwesa, a CBU Midwife, highlighted this issue, stating that the university is actively undertaking door-to-door family planning services to combat the misuse of emergency contraceptives.

The proactive measures undertaken by CBU are meant to promote the health and well-being of its student body. By offering comprehensive sexual health services and education, CBU aims to empower students to make informed decisions and prioritize their health.

Mwinelubemba In Barotseland Must Not Be Politicised – Nevers Mumba

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Mwinelubemba In Barotseland Must Not Be Politicised – Nevers Mumba

As Bemba speaking people we are honored to have our Paramount Chief Chitimukulu honored to play the role of guest of honor at this year’s Kuomboka. We however advise that no politician should attempt to use the name of our traditional leader in their political fight against the Republican President. Chief Chitimukulu feels honored to be at the same event with his host His Majesty the Litunga and the President of the Republic of Zambia.

The President can visit any part of Zambia with or without a special invitation. President Hichilema should not think twice about both his right and obligation to attend events of national significance like the Kuomboka Ceremony.
He should not pay any attention to any politically inclined special groups trying to intimidate him out of attending the cultural event of the Lozi people of Barotseland. He is the President of the Sovereign Republic of Zambia of which Western Province is a part of.

The argument that the President should not attend the Kuomboka Ceremony because he has not been invited as Guest of Honor exposes the root of both ignorance and the nature of the current Zambian toxic politics.
The President cannot be a guest of honor for every event he attends. If the President attends our Victory Bible Church, he should do so because he wants to come and share in our worship. He needs no special invitation. He doesn’t have to come as a guest of honor.

The politicians who are raising this issue come from the old fading school of the all powerful, all controlling Presidency. This is a new season of a servant leader President. Who takes the lowest seat at the banquet as the scriptures teach us.
This is the same argument being raised by those claiming that President Hichilema is belittling the Presidency by Commissioning the sanitary project of flushable toilets. They believe he should only commission big shiny projects attended by the rich serving the interests mostly of the rich.

A new flushable toilet to a poor man in the compound who uses a dangerously built pit latrine is equivalent to commissioning a newly tarred road for those who drive. The president is a president of both the rich and the poor. Humility is to do those small things that mean much to those who need them.
Finally, to the police, we advise that you not be heavy handed in your quest to maintain order at this very important national event.
Let us celebrate this historic event under the umbrella of our national banner of “ONE ZAMBIA, ONE NATION.”

By Dr.Nevers Mumba

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