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How IMF has worsened Unemployment, Cost of Living and Cost of doing Business in Zambia

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How IMF has worsened Unemployment, Cost of Living and Cost of doing Business in Zambia

By Mwansa Chalwe Snr

The Energy Regulations Board ( ERB ) recently increased petrol to K35.56 per litre, K29.60 for diesel, and Zesco increased tariffs on 1 May,2024 by 10%, while the Kwacha went north to almost K27.These combined escalations  are expected to filter through the economy in the coming months, and possibly have negative impact on ordinary Zambians and businesses. These changes are part of the implementation of IMF austerity conditions for Zambia’s 38Month $1.3billion Extended Credit Facility ( ECF). According to the IMF, its supervised program aims to create a more stable economic foundation for long-term growth.

“The authorities’ program, supported by the ECF-arrangement, will advance the authorities’ home-grown reform plan to restore debt sustainability, create fiscal space for much-needed social spending, and strengthen economic governance,” The IMF claimed in a statement announcing the bailout approval.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has long been criticized for its one-size-fits-all approach to economic policies, which in most instances makes things worse rather than alleviating economic hardships. Zambia’s current experience under an IMF program is a clear example of how IMF policies can worsen economic conditions instead of improving them, at least based on the evidence of the last 20 months of the program.

Monetary Policies slowing down economic growth and killing jobs

One of the key IMF policies that they have imposed on Zambia – the claim that the Program is based on grown economic recovery plan is hollow and a mirage – is inflation targeting. And one of the measures is the squeezing of liquidity from the economy.The Bank of Zambia has increased the Statutory Reserve Ratio to 26.5% and mopped up almost all government funds from Commercial banks.This policy is aimed at controlling inflation and to stabilize the kwacha exchange rate by reducing the amount of money circulating in the economy.

This policy might control inflation in a formal economy, but in Zambia, where over 90% of businesses and households operate informally, and where access to credit is already limited, squeezing liquidity can have devastating consequences for households and businesses, like they are currently doing now. The failure of this policy was indirectly confirmed by Bank of Zambia Governor Denny Kalyalya during the launch of the Bank’s Strategic Plan 2024-27.

“We will undertake, for this purpose, a household and business survey to better assess the impact of monetary policy on the economy for more informed policy decision making. So, we will be doing all these surveys to really get a sense of what is going on. And that will give us pointers as to what we need to adjust. When money is under the pillow, it doesn’t come back into the banking system and monetary policy has no effect on that. This informal sector that we have. So, this is what we want to address,” he said.
The tight liquidity environment is restricting businesses’ ability to expand and grow. With reduced liquidity, businesses struggle to access the capital needed to operate and expand, leading to stagnation and closures, ultimately exacerbating unemployment and poverty. And this negative impact of the IMF policies has been empirically proven by the Stanbic monthly Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) survey, which has shown poor performance of the Private Sector through the reduction in output.Business activity has been falling in most months throughout 2023, and has continued to do so in the first quarter of 2024 with PMI readings all below the 50.0.0 threshhold, ranging from 47.3 to 48.8. This serious reduction in production.

” The private sector health in Zambia declined. Business conditions continued to see a deterioration as a result of reduction in money supply and the depreciation of the kwacha, which have negatively impacted demand. Money shortages crippled new orders and forced cutbacks in output, employment and purchasing activity.” The Head of Sales at Stanbic Bank, Musenge Komeki said
Another detrimental IMF policy in Zambia is the accelerated removal of subsidies on essential commodities such as energy and agriculture. While subsidy removal is often advocated as a means to reduce government expenditure and promote efficiency, in Zambia’s case, it has resulted in a significant increase in the cost of living and doing business. The cost of living in particular has risen sharply, making it increasingly difficult for ordinary Zambians to make ends meet.
The removal of energy subsidies, for example,translates to higher prices for basic necessities, squeezing household budgets and dampening consumer spending. Increased fuel costs have raised transportation expenses, impacting the entire supply chain.This, in turn, discourages investment and slows economic growth – the very outcome the IMF seeks to prevent.

The IMF and World Bank Subsidy hypocrisy

While the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank have often pushed developing countries like Zambia to reduce or eliminate subsidies, many Western countries, including the US, EU, and UK, do provide subsidies to various sectors.

Critics also argue that all Western countries provided all sorts of subsidies when they were at the same level of development that Zambia is at the moment. It is subsidies that facilitated their industries to flourish and facilitate development. And to support their arguments, they point to the empirical evidence of Western countries’ current subsidies to the agriculture, energy, industry sectors while the insist Zambian government should remove subsidies completely.

In the Agriculture sector, the US Department of Agriculture provides subsidies to farmers through programs like the Farm Bill, which includes crop insurance, price supports, and direct payments. The EU, on the other hand has the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) which provides significant subsidies to European farmers, accounting for around 40% of the EU’s budget, while the UK’s Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board provides funding for farmers and the agricultural industry.

When one looks at the energy sector, Western countries do provide immense subsidies.
The US provides tax credits and grants for renewable energy production, such as wind and solar power while the EU has set a target of at least 32% of its energy coming from renewable sources by 2030, and provides funding for renewable energy projects and the UK offers subsidies for offshore wind farms and other renewable energy projects.

As far as industry is concerned, the US provides subsidies for various industries, such as: the Defense Production Act, which provides funding for the production of defense-related materials.The USA also have the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing Loan Program, which provides loans for the development of fuel-efficient vehicles. The EU, on the other hand, provides funding for research and development through programs like Horizon Europe. The UK offers funding for various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, and life sciences, through organizations like the Aerospace Technology Institute and the Automotive Council.

What is the Way forward for the IMF Program

It is generally agreed that the IMF is highly effective during a financial crisis like Zambia has been in.The Institution has built its global reputation of providing sound policy advice and technical assistance thus helping member countries to overcome financial crises, but it has failed to meet its goals of fostering higher, more resilient, and more inclusive growth and promoting jobs.This is because of its one size fits all approach to turning around around economies.

The writer does not deny that the Zambian economy needed reforms after ten years of gross mismanagement by the previous administration, which he openly criticised and was banished for. There is, therefore,certainly merit in some of the IMF reforms. Zambia’s excessive debt levels were unsustainable, and needed to be fixed. The unchecked government spending also resulted in unsustainable government deficits which exacerbated inflation, required attention.

The IMF’s program, therefore, has been a necessary evil, meant to create a more stable macro economic foundation for long-term growth, but it is the approach, the rate and scale at which the reforms are being conducted that has created the problems. The sages have always adviced against extremism and recommended moderation.

And some of the measures that they are implementing are purely from text books, and transplanted from advanced economies. There are totally inapparopriate for our economy and therefore ineffective, and producing opposite results.

The key to solving Zambia’s economic problem lies in the Bretton Woods Institution – IMF and World Bank – acknowledging the unique challenges of Zambia’s economy and recognizing local experts who understand it better.There is a need for a more nuanced approach to designing solutions for Zambia,which combines common sense fiscal consolidation, while at the same time targeting the elephant in the Zambia’s economic room, which the IMF and World Bank experts have not yet identified. Zambian thinkers know what it is.

There is a need for the IMF and World Bank to cast their consultative net wider than to restrict themselves with the traditional formal stakeholders who they consult routinely, in their bi- annual review of the ECF program, the recent being last month in April,2024. Local independent and credible economic and political analysts /commentators are totally ignored in these consultations.

CONCLUSION

While the IMF’s intentions may be noble, its policies in Zambia in the short term since 2022,have had a detrimental impact on ordinary Zambians and businesses. And when one looks at the current metrics of the Zambian economy, since the IMF Programme was implemented, it seems some of the tools they insisted on government and Bank of Zambia to use, are not entirely effective, and are not achieving the desired outcomes and therefore, need revisiting. This is common sense.

Inflation is going up, interest rates are going up, kwacha is continuously depreciating, private sector activity is going down, cost of doing business is going up, economic growth is sluggish and low, and unemployment is going up. There is nobody who can buy the story of long term stability, as it has never happened in the past with same policies.

It is essential for the IMF to reconsider its approach and work more closely with the Zambian authorities to revisit, recalibrate strategies and policies that promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth by taking into account the practical variables that drive favourable outcomes in the Zambian economic ecosystem. Preconceived and predetermined prescriptions from Washington, ought to be consigned to the dustin, in place of practical realities.

There is need to find a balance between austerity measures and measures that facilitate growth of Micro and Small enterprises(MSEs), who are the source of economic growth and jobs. The long ignored local experts and thinkers ought to be engaged now, given that most of the IMF Program is not on the right trajectory, and is slowly losing credibility with Zambians, and bringing the nightmarish and horror memories of the late 1980s, 90s and an early 2000s of the Structural Adjustment Programmes (SAP).

The New Dawn Government should not make the same mistake that their precedessors made of ignoring Patriotic Zambian experts, who are outside the government bureaucracy in the Private sector, and who know how economic activities can be accelerated, and how jobs are created, and understand the economy from the practical perspective.

Zambia needs to immeditely craft real home grown initiatives. While the IMF program can continue,albeit in a moderated fashion, it should be complemented by real home grown solutions, which are not interfered with in order to mitigate the current political risk. The two – IMF program and Practical independent home grown initiatives and solutions – are not mutually exclusive.

Zambia has an economic monkey on its back. And unless it is identified and removed or substantially disabled, we can forget about development. All successful developed countries, including the Asian Tigers, ensured that the economic monkey was dealt with. Otherwise, all these IMF reforms will amount to  nothing,if it is not addreassed. I can provide empirical evidence to prove this assertion, if challenged.

The writer is a Chartered Accountant, Author and Economic commentator.He is the Founder of a research based virtual Knowledge and Strategy firm, Prosper Knowledge Solutions Limited. Contact : [email protected]

Kavindele strays into the Lion’s den

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Kavindele strays into the Lion’s den

Excerpts from my book, One Zambia One Nation; how Presidents have navigated around the issue

If KK thought he had enough problems on his plate to deal with especially with the rise of the Frederick Chiluba led MMD which was already breathing heavily on his neck, then he was in for rude awakening. Mid-1980s, a reformist leader, Mikhail Gorbachev had taken over in the Soviet Union. He introduced sweeping reforms which entailed openness (glasnost) – allowing for enhanced freedom of speech and press while at the same time embarking on decentralising economic decision-making (perestroika) to move the country from its stagnation.

Perhaps buoyed up by events panning out in the birth place of UNIPs ideologies, some youthful members of the party’s central committee approached their peer, Enock Kavindele, and asked him to consider challenging KK for the party’s leadership position at the next convention. Kavindele was a renowned wealthy businessman, having started his business career in the 1970s when he established Woodgate Holdings Ltd; a company with a vast portfolio of services that included agriculture, real estate, tourism, mining and transportation. However, before he could come to any conclusion, he sought to have audience with the President.

“The way I see things your Excellency, UNIP does not stand any chance of winning the elections,” he calmly said to him, not sure whether the man would immediately explode and show him the door.

Prior to that, a fatigued KK had hinted to his close colleagues he was retiring from active politics. As a person who introduced one party politics, he wasn’t keen on being at helm as the country reverted back to multiparty politics. However, some old-timers in the central committee, who weren’t quite certain about the future, prevailed on him to rescind his decision. They were literally in tears as they pleaded with him not to throw-in the towel considering that the new government might withhold their retirement packages.

During this period of uncertainty when KK didn’t know who to trust, central committee meetings had to be held outside the Cabinet room in the garden just in case it was bugged to avoid any unauthorised information leaking out to the public. Unknown to them, one of the ministers who was also a member of the central committee was a Judas Iscariot. He would pass-on whatever was discussed during meetings to the Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD). Clement Mwananshiku would actually be rewarded with an appointment as Ambassador to Germany after the change of government.

Kavindele wasn’t bothered to square it off with KK after all, he didn’t have any running contract with government, his books were equally clean while he was upto date with his taxes. But wait a minute? Who in their right frame of mind would take on mighty Kaunda? To his hardcore supporters, Kaunda was a demigod. One would actually often hear the chants of, “Kumulu ni Lesa, panshi ni Kaunda (roughly translated, in heaven it’s Kaunda, on earth it’s Kaunda). Kavindele had dared stray into the Lion’s den fully aware he risked being mauled. He was yet to pay the price.

During the party convention held at the Mulungushi Rock of Authority in Kabwe in 1991, he had to endure all sorts of insults and threats from fellow delegates. Although he was provided with state security, some elderly women somehow managed to find their way to his challet half-naked and burst into songs punctuated with graphic language. It was a tense atmosphere; the notorious vigilantes were baying for his blood. Before the day of reckoning though, Kavindele chickened-out of the race and left for Lusaka!

He would resign from UNIP and form his own political party – the United Democratic Party which he bankrolled single-handedly. In the ensuing elections, the party would win a good number of local government seats. Nevertheless, he would later disband his party and join ruling MMD.

“I would rather be near the King than being the King himself,” he would say.

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Nevers Mumba Initiates Legal Action Against Chris Zumani Zimba For Character Assasination

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Nevers Mumba Initiates Legal Action Against Chris Zumani Zimba For Character Assasination

Nevers Mumba

Dr.Nevers Mumba has taken decisive steps to address what he describes as a malicious campaign aimed at tarnishing his reputation. Dr.Mumba expressed his intentions to pursue legal action against Chris Zumani Zimba, citing defamation and character assassination.

The controversy arose when Mr. Zumani authored a statement, responding to remarks made by Nevers Mumba during his live address. Allegedly, Zumani’s response contained fabrications, twisted facts, and outright lies, all with the intent of besmirching the Dr.Mumba’s name.


Below is the Full Statement

Fellow Citizens,

I came across a statement authored by one Chris Zumani Zimba in which he took time to respond to a statement which I made during a live address carried on my official face book page.

In his response, Mr Zumani went to great lengths in trying to run a narrative that sought to define me, using lies and deceit, made-up stories and twisted facts all in an effort to destroy a name I have built with God’s help over many decades. It is such character assassination like I have not heard before. All from an individual I have never known or met in my life.

I have therefore, instructed my lawyers to commence a Legal Action against Mr. CHRIS ZUMANI ZIMBA this week. I believe this will give us an opportunity to respond to each of the lies he has written in a respected and sober setup on the one hand, while also ensuring that he is given a fair opportunity to prove his many allegations against myself.

It is my decided aim, that may this case become a beacon in the land, and a legal precedence to ensure that after this, nobody, in this, our great nation, should ever wake up and maliciously smear lies and defame another person.
I further wish to place on record the fact that I do not take lightly, the trouble, the sacrifice and the total self restraint I have had to endure and hold on to, over many, many years to preserve my name, my respect, and my Integrity, both here and abroad. In the past, we have ignored these “bar talk” lies but now realize that if left unchallenged many weak hearts actually take them as the gospel truth.

I believe that such immoral politics shall continue in our governance space unless someone stands up, and pays the price to fight it, not through violence, vengeance or insults, but through a thorough process of FACT CHECKING under the auspices of the competent Courts of Law.

I believe that good is powerful enough to overcome evil and that Truth must never cower in the face of Malice and Lies.
It remains one of my truest mandates to help clean up Zambian politics and with God’s help, Zambia Shall be saved.
Dr.Nevers Mumba

Al Jazeera shutdown In Israel

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Al Jazeera shutdown In Israel

Israeli police raided a Jerusalem hotel room used by Al Jazeera as its de facto office on Sunday following a government decision to shut down the Qatari-owned TV station’s local operations, an Israeli official and an Al Jazeera source told Reuters.
Video circulated online showed plainclothes officers dismantling camera equipment in a hotel room. The Al Jazeera source said the hotel was in East Jerusalem.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet shut down the network for as long as the war in Gaza continues, on the grounds the Qatari television network threatens national security.
Al Jazeera called the move a “criminal action” and rejected the accusation the network threatened Israeli security as a “dangerous and ridiculous lie” that puts its journalists at risk.
It said that it reserved the right to “pursue every legal step”.

The network has been critical of Israel’s military operation in Gaza, from where it has reported around the clock throughout the war.
“The incitement channel Al Jazeera will be closed in Israel,” Netanyahu posted on social media following the unanimous cabinet vote.
A government statement said Israel’s communications minister signed orders to “act immediately”, but at least one lawmaker who supported the closure said Al Jazeera could still try to block it in court.
The measure, the statement said, will include closing Al Jazeera’s offices in Israel, confiscating broadcast equipment, cutting off the channel from cable and satellite companies and blocking its websites. It did not mention Al Jazeera’s Gaza operations.
There was no official comment from the Qatari government, which deferred to Al Jazeera.
Al Jazeera previously called Israeli efforts to curtail its operations an “escalation” and said in a statement in early April that it “comes as part of a series of systematic Israeli attacks to silence Al Jazeera”.

It said that Israeli authorities have deliberately targeted and killed several of its journalists including Samer Abu Daqqa and Hamza AlDahdooh, both killed in Gaza during the conflict. Israel has said it does not target journalists.
Qatar established Al Jazeera in 1996 and views the network as a way to bolster its global profile.
“Al Jazeera Media Network strongly condemns and denounces this criminal act that violates human rights and the basic right to access of information,” the network said in a statement. “Al Jazeera affirms its right to continue to provide news and information to its global audiences.”

The UN Human Rights Office also criticised the closure.
“We regret cabinet decision to close Al Jazeera in Israel,” it said on X. “A free & independent media is essential to ensuring transparency & accountability. Now, even more so given tight restrictions on reporting from Gaza. Freedom of expression is a key human right. We urge govt to overturn ban.”
Israel’s parliament last month ratified a law allowing the temporary closure in Israel of foreign broadcasters considered to be a threat to national security.

The law allows Netanyahu and his security cabinet to shut the network’s offices in Israel for 45 days, a period that can be renewed, so it could stay in force until the end of July or until the end of major military operations in Gaza.
Qatar, where several Hamas political leaders are based, is trying to mediate a ceasefire and hostage release deal that could halt the Gaza war.

Source: Reuters

Government scores In Provision Of Water In Health Facilities

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Government scores In Provision Of Water In Health Facilities

Minister of Health Sylvia Masebo says 100 percent of the health facilities constructed since 2022 across the country have boreholes and water reticulated providing running water and flushable toilets.

Speaking during the launch of the World Hand Hygiene Day in Lusaka , Ms Masebo disclosed that 709 out of 2,587 of the old health facilities for both staff and patients that lacked running water now have running water and water borne toilets.

Ms Masebo stated that the government is working towards ensuring all the health facilities get connected to running water through the Ministries of Health, Water Development and Sanitation as well as Local Government and Rural Development.

She observed that Infectious Prevention Control (IPC) compliance through hand hygiene has increased from 45 percent to 55 percent between 2020 and 2023 particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ms Masebo mentioned that the government has developed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) targeting healthcare workers focusing on the continuous improvement of standards for healthcare settings especially the maternity annexes, theatres including healthcare waste management stations.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the health care facilities to promote and reinforce hand hygiene interventions as 80 percent of all infection’s humans suffer from are transmitted by hands.

The Minister implored the general public to wash their hands at all critical times like before and after eating, after visiting the toilet, after touching babies’ nappies and bottoms as it will promote good hand hygiene and eliminate disease causing microorganisms.

On May 5, 2024 Zambia will join the rest of the world to commemorate the World Hand Hygiene Day in Health Care Facilities under the theme “Unite for Safety, Clean Your Hands.”

Message For Today:Put the Cup Down

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Message For Today:Put the Cup Down

Today’s Scripture

Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.”
Acts 3:6, NIV

Put the Cup Down

Friend, in Acts 3, a man who had been crippled since birth was begging for money every day at the temple gate. Occasionally someone would place a few coins into his outstretched cup. He was stuck in a negative mind-set because of his circumstances, not expecting anything to change, until Peter stopped and spoke today’s Scripture to him. Peter was saying, “Put down your cup because what God is about to do will not fit in that cup.” No one had ever spoken faith over him, telling him that he could walk. Then Peter pulled him up, and instantly he was healed.

Notice that this man had to put down his cup before he could receive his miracle. His mind-set was hoping for a few coins, but God had healing for his legs that meant he’d never have to use that cup again. Do you see how God wants to show you His immeasurable favor? God is saying, “Get rid of your cup. Have a new mind-set. Start believing bigger. The blessings I have for you cannot be contained in a cup.”

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that even when I’m stuck in a negative mind-set because of my circumstances, You still have an amazing plan for my life. Help me to put my cup down and expect the immeasurable favor You have for me. I believe that You are doing exceedingly abundantly above all that I ask or think. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

CDF can be a game changer; our journey to Kanchibiya

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CDF can be a game changer; our journey to Kanchibiya

Without any doubt, one of President Hakainde Hichilema’s flagship projects is obviously the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) which his administration has increased from a paltry K1.6 million to a whopping K25.7 million!

When making the earth-shattering announcement, the President famously said, “We’re taking the money away from a small number of big thieves in Lusaka and bringing it closer to the people in order to enhance development!”

What do we make of this?

If applied prudently, CDF can obviously be a game changer! Previously, we had a few individuals congregating in air-conditioned offices in Lusaka remotely deciding how much money should be allocated for particular projects in given constituencies without necessarily taking into consideration the order of priorities. Apart from the money ending-up in the pockets of a few selfish individuals through over pricing, most projects couldn’t be completed, hence robbing our people of development.

In his insatiable desire to spur development activities in every corner of the country, this particular President has applied wisdom by increasing CDF, exponentially. While the Edgar Lungu regime would literally ‘starve’ opposition strongholds of CDF by withholding funds or releasing the same in bits and pieces, the current administration has departed from such a warped way of thinking by making the money available in all the constituencies at the same time.

Kudos to Hon. Gary Nkombo, the Minister of Local Government & Rural Development for not being a let down on this score! He’s definitely doing whatever it takes to help implement the vision of President Hichilema – rolling out bursaries to deserving students, ensuring that classroom spaces are being increased and no child is having to sit on the floor, feeder roads are being worked on and citizens are getting empowered economically.

However, while some MPs have taken this initiative in stride and are busy spearheading developmental initiatives in their constituencies according to the needs of our people; a number of them are either still trapped in denial or completely avoiding to be associated with CDF for whatever reasons! Why should you continue punishing citizens in such a manner? This is not only grossly unfair but totally unjustifiable! And such individuals don’t deserve to sit in parliament at all.

Like everyone else, we have been following the good news coming out of Kanchibiya with keen interest. As they say, “seeing is believing,” we intend to make a trip to Kanchibiya to take stock of how Hon. Sunday Chanda is utilising CDF in this rural constituency. We shall seek to engage the relevant stakeholders to appreciate their views or concerns on this matter. From there, we hope to tour a few more constituencies to equally ‘investigate’ or assess the impact of CDF in our communities.

Honourables Brian Mundubile, Steven Kampyongo, Jay Jay Banda, Munir Zulu, Jean Chisenga Given Katuta, Anthony Mumba, Shakafuswa, Miles Sampa …..the list is of course endless, it would be great to be acquainted with your exploits in your respective constituencies.

Please, make a date!

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

ZESCO Commences Importation Of Power

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ZESCO Commences Importation Of Power

The Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) limited has commenced the importation of electricity to supplement the national power supply.

ZESCO Spokesperson Matongo Maumbi said effective May 1, 2024, the Corporation began importing electricity to supplement the national power supply, following the reduced generation due to poor hydrology.

Mr. Maumbi explained that the decision was arrived at because the country is currently experiencing limitations in power generation due to hydrological challenges.

“The imported electricity will constitute approximately 20 percent of the total available power for at least 12 months. The power utility will have reduced control over the stability and scheduling of this imported power source,” he said.
Mr Maumbi said ZESCO understands the importance of reliable electricity and regrets any inconvenience these potential disruptions may cause.

“The Corporation remains committed to providing it’s customers with stable and reliable electricity. The Corporation is actively working to address the limitations in domestic power generation and will continue to update customers on any developments,” said Mr Maumbi.

American Tourist’s Son Speaks Out After Fatal Elephant Attack in Zambia Safari

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American Tourist’s Son Speaks Out After Fatal Elephant Attack in Zambia Safari

The son of Gail Mattson, the 79-year-old American tourist tragically killed in an elephant attack during a safari in Zambia last month has spoken out, expressing understanding and forgiveness towards both the elephant and the tour guide involved in the incident.

Gail Mattson, a grandmother from Minnesota, lost her life while on a game drive with a friend and four other tourists in the Kafue National Park in early April. Despite the tragic outcome, her son, Blake Vetter, has emphasized that his mother was aware of the risks associated with such adventures and held no blame towards the elephant or the driver for the incident.

“Mom was an adventurer at heart, and she understood the inherent risks of exploring the wild. She wouldn’t want any blame placed on the elephant or the driver,” Vetter stated.

Footage from the incident captured the terrifying moment when the elephant charged at the safari vehicle, ultimately flipping it over. Vetter commended the professionalism of the driver, noting that his actions likely prevented further injuries or loss of life.

“The driver stopped because he had to. He did his best to protect the passengers. We believe he saved lives by stopping,” Vetter remarked.

Describing his mother as someone who lived life to the fullest, Vetter shared heartbreaking images from the day of the attack, showing Mattson holding a flower inside the safari vehicle. She had embarked on the safari as her “last big adventure,” according to friends.

The safari company Wilderness, which operates tours in several African countries including Zambia, issued a statement expressing condolences to Mattson’s family and offering support to those affected by the incident. The company highlighted the extensive experience and training of its tour guides.

Meanwhile, investigations into the incident are ongoing, with local authorities in Zambia probing the circumstances surrounding the attack. The exact reason for the elephant’s aggression remains unclear.

This tragic event has brought attention to the challenges faced by both tourists and wildlife in safari environments. It also coincides with broader discussions about elephant populations in Africa, particularly in countries like Botswana, where concerns over increasing numbers have sparked debate over conservation measures.

Tatwaibile ” We Never Stole Anything Laments Esther Lungu

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Tatwaibile ” We Never Stole Anything Laments Esther Lungu

Former First Lady Esther Lungu says her and her family have never stolen anything.Speaking after over eight hours of trial earlier in the week , in a case where she stands charged for owning property suspected to be proceeds of crime, Mrs Lungu charged that her family was being prosecuted.

She vowed to remain resilient saying God knows that her family was innocent from the prosecution they were going through.
“God is big, and he is the one we are leaning on! I will not be shaken! We never stole anything, and God knows,” the former First Lady said.“We are going to dance to man’s tune, But God knows as there is always light at the end of the tunnel. They are not taking away our lives”

She complained that none of the other former First Ladies has gone through what she is going through. “How many First Ladies have gone through what I am going through? Anyway, God knows,” she said.

However this claim has been refuted with past articles showing the Former First Lady Thandiwe Banda was taken to court by PF government ,her property – Mpundu Trust Flats – seized by ACC and tenants evicted for two years on ground that she built it with stolen funds. The Former first Lady Thandiwe Banda went through the court until she was cleared.

1. Thandiwe Banda property seized
2.Times of Zambia appologies to Thandiwe Banda
3.State blocks former President Rupiah Banda from traveling
4.Former President Banda arrested

In the ongoing proceedings, the court has allowed a bank official from First National Bank (FNB) to avail the court with some bank statements of Ms. Lungu and her Foundation, the Esther Lungu Foundation Trust.The court wants to know the value of capacity of Mrs. Lungu’s known income.The Director of Public Prosecutions seeks to forfeit her 15 double-storey flats to the state, alleging they are proceeds of crime.

97 Youths In Serenje To Undergo Training Under 2024 CDF Funding

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97 Youths In Serenje To Undergo Training Under 2024 CDF Funding

97 youths are set to undergo training in driving at a cost of K1 millions of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) 2024 funding in Mkushi district.

75 of the trainees’ prospects are from Muchinga while 22 are from Serenje Central constituencies will be trained in life skills at Handsworth Institute of Health Science and Technology in Lusaka and Ndola.

64 trainees have already departed to the Lusaka campus where they will be trained in driving motor vehicles of different classes.

Speaking before seeing off the youth, Serenje town council mayor Tavious Mulumba said the rest of the students will depart for training once the local authority has verified availability of earth moving equipment at the Ndola campus.

‘’ The remaining 33 trainees will go next week after we verify that the institution has equipment,’’ Mr. Mulumba said.

Mr. Mulumba commended Government for increasing the CDF allocation to K30.6 million this year.

He on this score, called on the Technical Education, Vocation and Entrepreneurship Training Authority (TEVETA) to continue monitoring skills training centers to ensure standards are maintained.

Meanwhile, the youths thanked the government for empowering youth through CDF.One of the youths Maudrin Kabibwa said her future which has been hanging in the balance is now certain.

‘My parents are not able to sponsor me to receive tertiary education. Thanks to president HH and his government for being considerate to the youth,’’ Kabibwa said.

Another beneficiary Peter Mwaba called on President Hakainde Hichilema to continue increasing the CDF to touch more lives.

‘’ Increased CDF under UPND is a reality. Let other youth also apply for skills training so that they can also benefit’,’’ Mwaba urged.
And Handsworth institute marketing officer Gerald Simwanza said his institute will deliver according to the expectation of both the trainees and government.

Renaming Western Province to Barotseland Province: A Step Towards Resolving the Barotseland Dispute

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Renaming Western Province to Barotseland Province: A Step Towards Resolving the Barotseland Dispute

In addressing the ongoing Barotseland dispute in Zambia, proposing the renaming of Western Province to Barotseland Province emerges as a potential step towards reconciliation and fostering a sense of inclusivity and respect for the region’s historical and cultural significance. This initiative not only acknowledges the grievances of those advocating for greater autonomy but also reflects a commitment to honoring past agreements and promoting unity within the nation.

However, before separatist groups, such as Linyungandambo, pursue their aspirations for secession, it is imperative to address certain inconsistencies and challenges. One such challenge is the obligation of all Zambians to pay the TV levy, which supports essential services including healthcare, security, social services, and education. It is essential for all citizens, regardless of their affiliations or grievances, to contribute to the nation’s development and well-being. Therefore, I challenge Linyungandambo to lead by example and cease payment of the TV levy before advancing discussions on the Barotseland Agreement. It is hypocritical to advocate for a cause while benefiting from the services provided by the Zambian government.

Central to the proposed renaming is the recognition that we are one Zambia, one nation. The Litunga, revered as the king of the Lozi or Luyi people, symbolizes unity and represents all Zambians. The prospect of a divided nation, with Barotseland breaking away, raises significant concerns about the preservation of our shared heritage and identity. The cultural richness embodied in events like the Kuomboka transcends regional boundaries and unites us as a nation. Any attempt to sever ties would diminish the collective pride we share in such cultural celebrations.

For those unfamiliar with the context, Linyungandambo’s pursuit of independence stems from perceived grievances regarding the Barotseland Agreement of 1964. This agreement, intended to grant the region significant autonomy within Zambia, has been marred by allegations of non-compliance and neglect. Consequently, tensions have escalated, prompting calls for secession. However, it is essential to approach these grievances with a spirit of dialogue and compromise rather than resorting to drastic measures that threaten the nation’s unity and stability.

Amidst the discord, we must prioritize the cultivation of unity and understanding. I challenge Linyungandambo to demonstrate their commitment to their cause by refraining from utilizing government-provided services, including healthcare facilities, during times of need. This gesture would underscore their sincerity and dedication to their ideals. As advocates for change, it is incumbent upon them to lead by example and pursue constructive avenues for dialogue and resolution.

All in all, renaming Western Province to Barotseland Province represents a symbolic gesture of reconciliation and acknowledgment of the region’s unique heritage. However, true progress can only be achieved through genuine dialogue, mutual respect, and a commitment to upholding the principles of unity and inclusivity. Let us embrace our shared identity as Zambians and work together towards a brighter and more harmonious future for all.

Chaliafya Katungula
Advocate General

Dr. Chitalu Chilufya Emphasizes Health Implications of World Press Freedom Day Theme

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Dr. Chitalu Chilufya Emphasizes Health Implications of World Press Freedom Day Theme

Dr. Chitalu Chilufya, former Health Minister in the Patriotic Front Government, has underscored the health implications embedded within the theme of World Press Freedom Day 2024, “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the face of environmental crisis.”

In a statement , Dr. Chilufya highlighted the interconnectedness between environmental issues and public health. He emphasized that phenomena such as air pollution, noise pollution, natural disasters, and man-made environmental degradation have profound effects on human well-being, necessitating urgent attention from both the media and policymakers.

“As journalists, it is imperative to recognize the link between environmental degradation and public health,” Dr. Chilufya stated. “Issues such as air pollution and unmanaged waste not only degrade our environment but also directly impact the health of our communities.”

Drawing from his medical background, Dr. Chilufya urged Zambian journalists to witness firsthand the effects of the environmental crisis on individuals by visiting medical facilities. He also encouraged them to conduct tours of the Zambian physical environment to observe the challenges posed by inadequate waste management and infrastructure development.

“Journalists play a crucial role in raising awareness about environmental health issues and holding authorities accountable for addressing them,” Dr. Chilufya remarked. “By incorporating the concept of ‘Health-in-all-policies,’ advocated by the World Health Organization, into their reporting, journalists can contribute to fostering sustainable solutions to the environmental crisis.”

World Press Freedom Day, celebrated annually on May 3rd, serves as a reminder of the fundamental principles of press freedom and the importance of a free and independent media in promoting transparency and accountability.

Sudan: Inspired by HH’s statesmanship, look to his leadership

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Sudan: Inspired by HH’s statesmanship, look to his leadership

Sudan is in the middle of a war.

By Benedict Tembo

War is not new in Sudan, which had previously witnessed a conflict in Darfur which began in February 2003 when the Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM) and the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) rebel groups began fighting against the government of Sudan, which they accused of oppression.

The war in Darfur pitted Sudanese Government forces, supported by allied militia known as the Janjaweed, against rebel groups resisting the autocratic rule of former President Omar al-Bashir. The result was a devastating toll on Darfur.

Just as the country was recovering from the devastating armed conflict in Darfur, Sudan is bleeding again following a war between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) under the Janjaweed leader, Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo aka Hemedti, who has waged aggression against the government of Sudan.

The current aggression started during the Islam revered period of Ramadan on April 15, 2023, undoing the efforts of the Juba Accord.

The Juba Agreement for Peace in Sudan signed in October 2020 was an accord by Sudan’s transitional government and by many of the country’s main warring factions.

In response to RSF gains in Darfur and subsequent abuses, the Justice and Equality Movement, the Sudan Liberation Movement/Army (Minnawi), and other smaller factions renounced their neutrality and took sides with the Sudanese government by declaring war on the RSF militia to protect Sudanese sovereignty.

The current armed conflict, which has ignited probably one of the world’s fastest-unfolding crises with about 25 million people needing humanitarian aid, of whom 14 million are children, is in conflict with the spirit of the UN Resolution 1591 (2005) adopted by the Security Council at its 5153rd meeting on March 29, 2005.

The war impedes the peace process as it constitutes a threat to stability in Darfur and the region, commits violations of international humanitarian or human rights law or other atrocities, and violate the measures implemented by Member States.

The Human Rights Watch in its February 2023 submission to the United Kingdom Parliament reported that the RSF attackers committed a wide range of abuses, killing and injuring hundreds of local residents while they were fleeing or seeking refuge, burning and looting houses and other properties, targeting health care facilities and internally displaced people’s camps.

The current conflict in Sudan has reportedly forced about 8.6 million people to flee, creating probably the largest displacement crisis globally.

In fact, the Sudanese are looking forward to the ending of the hostilities while forecasting the future of the country after the war.

During this period, they have identified role models they think can help Sudan now and in the aftermath of the war.

And one of the role models is President Hakainde Hichilema who Sudanese have followed religiously and feel that he possesses the charisma and stature to swing the tide to the favour of the collective Sudanese people.

The maiden speech President Hichilema made at the United Nations General Assembly still rings in the minds of the Sudanese.

Part of his inaugural speech, President Hichilema read:” I am drawn to the prophetic inscription on the wall of the United Nations plaza, and I quote “…they shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more…” Isaiah 2: 4-5. end of quote.

Through these words, President Hichilema served as a reminder to the United Nations to work towards global peace and international cooperation.

President Hichilema reminded the UN that though the world has made leaps and bounds, in the area of peace, security and stability, there remain pockets of conflict in many regions of the world where guns have not been silenced.

He said while the silencing of guns goes beyond addressing conventional warfare, it also addresses new emerging threats of the century which include: challenges of extremism and international terrorism, cybercrime, asymmetric warfare proliferation of non-conventional weapons and organized crime.

“As an international community, we need to continue to work together to address the root causes of these global threats through various national, regional and global mechanisms,” Mr Hichilema said

Sudanese Ambassador to Zambia Abbadi Nureldin Abdelrahman Nureldin says Sudanese hail Mr Hichilema’s reiteration that without peace and harmony, development cannot be attained.

Mr Abdelrahman Nureldin says Mr Hichilema’s resolve that Zambia will, therefore, continue to support national, regional and international initiatives aimed at promoting peace and security inspires the Sudanese and now look to his leadership in influencing the end of hostilities in Sudan.

He feels that as Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation in the Southern African Development Community as well as chairman of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa gives President Hichilema impetus to influence peace efforts in Sudan although their country it is not part of the SADC.

That he was able to join the six other African leaders on a peace mission for engagements with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin makes him equal to the task.

The historic peace mission which marked a milestone as it was the first time African leaders had ventured to the European Continent with the aim of advocating for a peaceful resolution to a conflict can be replicated in Sudan.

After all, it is Mr Hichilema’s mantra that that instability in any part of the world affects stability everywhere, hence the urgent need for an immediate cessation of hostilities in Sudan, which has had devastating consequences such as the loss of life, destruction of property, and forced displacement of individuals, impacting the country’s economy.

Mr Abdelrahman Nureldin remembers Mr Hichilema’s resolve to work and act together with his like-minded on the continent to silence the guns and all hotbeds of violence on our continent – such as the Islamism insurgent activities in Cameroon, Central African Republic, Somalia, the Sahel and the sister republic of Mozambique, by addressing the root causes of these conflicts.

Sudan, Mr Abdelrahman Nureldin feels, should not be an exception.

Mr Abdelrahman Nureldin’s confidence has been boosted by the recent meeting he held with Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations and Cooperation at Charter House in Lusaka recently.

The meeting was aimed at reaffirming the existing warm and cordial relations between Zambia and Sudan.

Mrs Anamela Gundersen and Mr Abdelrahman Nureldin held productive discussions on pertinent issues of common interest, including matters of peace and security.

“As a peace-loving country, Zambia, under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, remains committed to working with other countries through the regional, continental and international bodies to promote the fundamental principles of territorial integrity, inviolability of borders and peaceful settlement of disputes as outlined in the African Union Constitutive Act and the United Nations Charter,” Mrs Anamela Gundersen said after the meeting.

Additionally, Mrs Anamela Gundersen said Zambia will continue to leverage its established leadership in conflict mitigation and promotion of peace and stability within the region and beyond to facilitate dialogue among parties.

NHIMA Advised To Consult Stakeholders

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NHIMA Advised To Consult Stakeholders

The Medicines Research and Access Platform (MedRAP) has advised NHIMA to seek the help of stakeholders in the medical circles in tackling its reported operational challenges.

Minister of Health Sylvia Masebo on Wednesday revealed that NHIMA had depleted its funds in the bank account owing to scheme abuse by the private sector which overcharges patients.

MedRAP Executive Director Liyoka Liyoka said MedRAP has observed that the depletion of NHIMA funds is a management and operational problem which started simmering some time back.

“This problem has slowly been creeping in, and hence foreseeable, such that proactive actions and strategic intervention could have been undertaken way back to avert the current financial status of the institution and getting where we are today.Hence, the alleged connivance with private sector providers to loot NHIMA funds in unscrupulous claims cannot be corrected by suspending or eliminating public benefit packages,” Mr Liyoka said.

“MedRAP has always advocated for NHIMA to be under the Ministry of Health (MoH) and we believe that it is now the appropriate time that MOH must provide proper policy oversight as regards the Authority’s benefit package and reimbursement system.We wish to strongly advise NHIMA to seek the help of stakeholders including professional associations in the medical circles to look at how this problem is affecting the provision of services under the scheme and how it can be resolved,” he said.

Mr Liyoka said NHIMA should also take stock of their revenue base with respect to how much they are collecting from individual members of the public, how many people are contributing to the scheme versus the amount they are reimbursing health providers based on those individual members’ accounts.

“There is also a need for strategic integrations of NHIMA into the MoH provision of services so that NHIMA can also come up with a situation where they are only able to reimburse for services that are provided in a manner that is transparent and affordable to the people of Zambia.We also urge NHIMA to include all SRH commodities to cater for Adolescent Friendly Health Services.MedRAP is hereby calling on the government through NHIMA not to resort to curtailing member benefit packages in future,” he said.

“The problem being faced by NHIMA is an operational and management issue. NHIMA should invest in risk management systems in their operational environment to help predict emerging management and operational challenges such as the alleged abuse of the scheme by the private sector. NHIMA should also speedily deal with loose-ends in its reimbursement system as well as member recruitment programme,” Mr Liyoka concluded.

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