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Binwell Mpundu Joins Tonse Alliance, Vows to ‘Shake’ Zambian Politics

Guest Editor
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Binwell Mpundu Joins Tonse Alliance, Vows to ‘Shake’ Zambian Politics
Nkana Member of Parliament Binwell Mpundu has formally joined the Tonse Alliance, declaring that Zambia is at a critical moment that demands unity rather than fragmented political efforts.

Mpundu, who leads the Movement for Good Governance — popularly known as Ichabaice — announced his decision at an event addressed by Tonse Alliance president Brian Mundubile.

“We have chosen unity in the face of a common enemy, an enemy to democracy, the economy and the rule of law,” Mpundu said.

He acknowledged his presidential ambitions but stressed that his decision to join Tonse was motivated by national interest rather than personal aspirations.

“Like any other political party, I also want to be president, but today it is not about individual pursuits. We have not made this decision out of impulse, but after careful consideration in the interest of this country,” he said.

Mpundu dismissed assertions that his movement exists largely on social media, insisting that it has grassroots support and is prepared to demonstrate its strength publicly.

“We are going to give you a test run on Youth Day. Ichabaice is not a Facebook party,” he said.

“If you want us to demonstrate the size of this movement, tell us any numbers you want, we will deliver.”

He called on Zambians to rally behind the alliance, saying that joining Tonse does not mean abandoning the ideals of his movement.

“We are not joining Tonse because we are abandoning our ideals as Ichabaice, but because we are giving our party a bigger platform,” Mpundu said.

Speaking at the same event, Mundubile welcomed Mpundu and his supporters, describing the development as a sign of generational cooperation in national leadership.

He added that young people have long lacked representation in influential political spaces and assured them that the alliance would prioritise youth concerns.

Jack Mwiimbu Says PF Should Not Blame Government for South Africa Probe

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Jack Mwiimbu Says PF Should Not Blame Government for South Africa Probe
Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister Jack Mwiimbu says the Patriotic Front (PF) has no moral right to blame government for the South African police inquiry into the death of former president Edgar Lungu, arguing that it was the opposition party that made allegations of poisoning.

Mwiimbu said government is being unfairly accused of engineering an international investigation that only arose after PF members publicly claimed that Lungu had been poisoned.

He was responding to Shiwang’andu PF Member of Parliament Stephen Kampyongo, who called on President Hakainde Hichilema to personally address the situation surrounding Lungu’s remains during parliamentary debates on Thursday.

Mwiimbu maintained that government has neither obstructed nor politicised the matter, stating that it was Lungu’s family that resisted procedures meant to facilitate the former president’s burial in Zambia.

“Taking into account that this matter has been raised on the floor of this House, it is my duty and responsibility to respond to the same thing,” Mwiimbu said.

“Madam Speaker, this government has always been desirous to bring the body of the late president to be buried in Zambia. It is the family, Madam Speaker, who do not want certain procedures to be taken. They wanted to bury him in South Africa. As a responsible government, on behalf of the people of Zambia, we decided to go to court in order to bring the body here, to be buried in his own homeland. That is the issue.”

He revealed that government dispatched emissaries to South Africa multiple times to engage the family, but later discovered that some individuals purporting to speak on the family’s behalf were allegedly using the matter for political purposes.

“We, as government, are desirous to have the body brought home, given a dignified funeral and buried in Zambia. The issue was brought about by themselves, the PF,” he said.

“They are the ones who alleged that the president was poisoned. If you make such an allegation in a civilised society, the police will move in. That is what has happened in South Africa.”

Mwiimbu said government, like many Zambians, was alarmed by the poisoning claims made by PF figures, adding that the investigation by the South African Police Service (SAPS) followed those public allegations.

Earlier this week, SAPS questioned five members of Lungu’s family over the claims and issued a subpoena to Two Mountains Funeral Services, the funeral home keeping the former president’s body, demanding that the remains be released for a police post-mortem.

Mwiimbu added that if the Lungu family decides to proceed with burial arrangements in Zambia, government stands ready to facilitate the repatriation of the body.

 Hakainde Hichilema Announces Recruitment of 2,000 Teachers and 2,000 Health Workers

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 Hakainde Hichilema Announces Recruitment of 2,000 Teachers and 2,000 Health Workers
President Hakainde Hichilema has announced that government will recruit 2,000 teachers and 2,000 health workers this year as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen service delivery in the education and health sectors.

Addressing the Parliament of Zambia on progress made in the application of national values and principles, President Hichilema said the new recruitment drive builds on significant staffing gains achieved since 2021.

He noted that since taking office, his administration has recruited 41,917 teachers and more than 18,000 health workers across the country.

The President said the recruitment of teachers has supported the reintroduction of the free education policy in 2021, which has enabled more than 2.5 million children to return to school.

He added that support to vulnerable girls under the Keeping Girls in School initiative has significantly increased, with 127,233 girls benefiting in 2025 compared to 38,551 in 2021. The programme has also expanded geographically from 39 districts in 2021 to 95 districts in 2025.

President Hichilema further stated that menstrual hygiene management support in schools has grown substantially, with beneficiaries rising from 186,670 girls in 2021 to over 1.7 million in 2025.

The school feeding programme has also been scaled up from 1.5 million learners in 2021 to 4.7 million learners in 2025, contributing to improved attendance and retention, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

He cited a 70 percent Grade 12 pass rate recorded in public schools in 2025 — the highest in the country’s history — as evidence that the reforms are yielding results.

“This was not an accident, but the direct outcome of deliberate and well-planned policy reforms,” he said.

On health, the President said the recruitment of over 18,000 health workers since 2021 has strengthened service delivery, with an additional 2,000 health workers set to be employed this year. He added that government has continued constructing and equipping health facilities nationwide to improve access to quality healthcare.

Beyond education and health, President Hichilema said the Cash for Work programme has been expanded to all 116 districts, up from the initial 84 districts affected by drought, to cushion vulnerable households.

He also highlighted progress in improving access to clean water and sanitation, noting that over 4.9 million citizens have been provided with clean and safe water through various interventions.

In the labour and social protection sector, the President said reforms have been undertaken to promote transparency and social justice, including a more transparent public sector recruitment system and the introduction of partial pension withdrawals.

“As of January this year, 518,183 members of the National Pension Scheme Authority had accessed their 20 percent partial withdrawal, amounting to K10.6 billion,” he said.

He added that pension coverage has now been extended to the informal sector, which accounts for more than 70 percent of the workforce, while the minimum wage has been increased and occupational safety and health legislation strengthened.

The President said these measures have enhanced income security, financial resilience and broader social protection for citizens.

ECZ Urges professionalism during voter register inspection

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ECZ Urges professionalism during voter register inspection

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has urged Voter Education facilitators to uphold professionalism while undertaking the inspection of the provisional voter’s register exercise.

Chinsali District Electoral Officer (DEO) Zakeyo Mbao, says the facilitators are expected to adhere to the principles of voter education programmes which include non-partisanship, transparency, inclusivity and objectivity.

Speaking during a 2-day training of Voter Education Facilitators (VEFs) and District Voter Education Committee (DVEC) members, Mr Mbao charged that the exercise was an important national wide undertaking that required facilitators to exhibit utmost professionalism.

He stated that discipline while in the field should always be upheld while serving the communities, stressing that their behaviour will represent ECZ saying good conduct was key.

“Also ensure that the voter registration kits are published on community radio stations, council social media platforms among others, for the public to know where the kits will be stationed,” he added.

He further highlighted that the 2026 General elections roadmap depended on the collective responsibilities and engagement on the VEFs and DVECs.

Meanwhile, one of the ECZ facilitators Fridah Lupasha mentioned that the objective of the exercise was to enhance sensitisation and dissemination of information among registered voters.

Ms Lupasha stated that the focus is meant to ensure that the registered voters take interest in inspecting their details in the provisional register as well as make updates and claims against omissions in the register for voters.

“Your responsibilities will include among other, provision of information on the services to be offered during inspection period such as transfers from one polling station to another, replacement of lost voter’s cards, destroyed or defaced voter’s cards, claims against omission, appeal and change of names,” she added.

And one of the trainees, Scholastica Cheuka, thanked ECZ for rendering them an opportunity to serve the public in ensuring that the 2026 General elections are held in a transparent manner.

Ms Cheuka also mentioned that the training programme had inculcated more knowledge on the electoral process from voter registration, verification and inspection of the voter’s register.

The inspection exercise of the provisional register for voters in Chinsali district is expected to commence from 22nd February to the 8th of March, 2026.

President Hichilema advises the public on hygiene

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President Hichilema advises the public on hygiene

President Hakainde Hichilema has called on the citizenry, public and private institutions to prioritise cleanness.

Delivering his keynote address on the progress made in the application of national values and principles in Parliament today, President Hichilema emphasised that every individual has a personal duty to ensure that their surroundings are kept clean.

The media reports that President Hichilema stressed that citizens must take a keen interest in keeping their surroundings and the environment clean.

He noted that keeping the surroundings and the environment clean will lead to a healthier nation.

President Hichilema said the Keep Zambia clean, green and healthy campaign is key in driving behavioural change and promoting public health.

“Keep Zambia clean, green, and healthy campaign is key in driving behavioural change and promoting public health,” he said.

Meanwhile, President Hichilema further encouraged citizens to paint their houses, plant flowers, and keep drainages clean, stating that maintaining personal spaces ultimately contributes to a cleaner and healthier nation.

The Head of State said the cleaning of personal spaces will result in a clean and healthier nation.

President Hichilema further expressed displeasure with motorists who throw litter along the State House lane and advised them to use plastic bags for dumping litter instead of throwing it through car windows.

The President also urged the public to take personal responsibility by disposing of litter only in designated areas.

President Hichilema has since directed the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development to intensify efforts to curb the indiscriminate disposal of waste.

UK envoy, stakeholders laud President Hichilema on SONA

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UK envoy, stakeholders laud President Hichilema on SONA

The State of the Nation Address (SONA) delivered by President Hakainde Hichilema at Parliament in Lusaka today, has sparked a range of positive reactions from key stakeholders, emphasising commitments to democracy, development, and social progress.

In an interview with the media shortly after the address, UK Ambassador to Zambia, Rebecca Terzeon, highlighted the strong partnership between the United Kingdom and Zambia, rooted in shared values of democracy and the rule of law.

Ms Terzeon expressed optimism about the upcoming August elections, noting Zambia’s robust electoral history.

 “It was really good to hear the President reaffirm that the elections will be free, fair, and credible,” Ms Terzeon stated.

She emphasised the importance of a vibrant civil society, active media, and opposition parties in ensuring electoral integrity ahead of the August elections.

Ambassador Terzeon also praised the President’s focus on inclusive development, underscoring the necessity for all Zambians to access education, social protection, and opportunities for women and girls.

She stressed that these initiatives are vital to strengthening the UK-Zambia partnership, particularly in responsible mining and economic growth.

And Chief Choongo, who is also House of Chiefs Chairperson, commended the President’s stance on social issues, particularly child marriage.

“All the Chiefs have agreed to abide by the country’s regulations, and we are pleased that the President has addressed child marriage categorically,” he said.

Chief Choongo further highlighted the significance of the free education policy, which has helped curb child marriages by removing barriers that previously led to early marriages.

He urged parents to enroll their children in school and assured traditional leaders’ support for the President’s agenda.

The Chief also called for peace during this year’s elections.

 “As traditional leaders, all political players are our children,” he added.

Meanwhile, London Publishing Director for Asempa Confidential, Patrick Smith, noted that following President Hichilema’s address, he was impressed with government’s strides in fostering free education, high teacher recruitment as well as health care policies in the country.

Malawi Vice President to attend N’cwala ceremony

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Malawi Vice President to attend N’cwala ceremony

Malawian Vice President Justice Jane Ansah is expected to be among the dignitaries that will attend the 2026 N’cwala ceremony slated for 28th February, 2026.

The media reports that this came to light during Nc’wala organising commitee meeting between Malawian and Zambian delegates held in Chipata Eastern Province.

Zambian Ambassador to Malawi Coronel (RTD) Panji Kaunda was among the delegation that went to pay a courtesy call on the Provincial administration and went to check on the venue in Laweni for the ceremony.

Vice President of Malawi Justice Dr Ansah will lead a Malawian delegation to attend one of Zambia’s biggest ceremonies.

Earlier, Eastern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Lewis Mwape said during a courtesy call that the visit of the Malawian Vice President during the forthcoming Nc’wala traditional ceremony clearly demonstrates the long standing common cultural backgrounds of the two countries.

Dr Mwape said Malawi and Zambia share a lot in common including cultural values and economic aspirations.

“Culture is not only about business in the tourism sector but it is used to promote unity and peace,” he said.

He noted that the traditional ceremony attracted a of business especially the hospitality industry being the major beneficiary of the sector.

Dr Mwape said lodge owners have taken advantage of the forthcoming ceremony to hike accommodation in both Katete and Chipata districts.

On Saturday, 21st February 2026, Paramount Chief Mpezeni, some impis, government officials and other dignitaries are expected to be in Feira to witness the crossing of the Zambezi River.

N’cwala Ceremony Organising Committee Vice Chairman General Chimukule Nyirenda said on Wednesday 25th February 2026, Ngoni chiefs will arrive in Chipata, while on Thursday 26th February 2026, the Paramount Chief Mpezeni will be moving from Empendukeni to pass through Chipata to Laweni in Mtenguleni area.

Mr Nyirenda said the committee was anticipating that all Chiefs of the Ngoni Tribe and other Chiefs from various provinces will come to celebrate N’cwala.

Council cautions public on providing false details

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Council cautions public on providing false details

Solwezi Municipal Council has cautioned members of the general public against giving false information to authorised officers.

Commenting on recent happening in Solwezi where a named person cheated that he had thrown himself in Solwezi river when in fact not, Solwezi Town clerk Stanley Mbewe said it was disappointing that the fire brigade ended up searching for a body of a person who was alive and not dead.

Mr Mbewe said alarming government was an offence and urged members of the public to refrain from such behaviors.

“As the local authority we are quiet disappointed with the act of our brother who ended up cheating that he had thrown himself in the river. Such a person must learn to appreciate life, God gave us life and we need to appreciate and we should not take it for granted,” he said.

He said every problem has a solution adding that no one should threaten to take own life.

“We encourage the community of Solwezi to find means and ways of sorting out grievances. I think attempting to commit suicide is never a solution to one’s life,

” That act which happened the local authority is disappointed, the person indeed was comfortably resting in his house while the fire brigade searched almost the whole day in the waters,” he said.

Mr Mbewe said government wasted resources and time searching for a person who was alive.

He warned that the law will catch up with people who has such tendencies.

Shangombo police arrest suspect in cattle theft

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Shangombo police arrest suspect in cattle theft

 Police in Shangombo District of Western Province have apprehended a suspect in connection with a case of stock theft in which three herds of cattle were stolen.

Western Province Police Commissioner, Rae Hamoonga confirmed the development in a statement saying the matter was reported to Shangombo Police Station on February 19, 2026, at 09:02 hours, while the offence is believed to have occurred earlier the same day around 05:00 hours in Lishamukelo area of Shangombo District.

He said the report was made by Munyembe Pumulo, 42, of Kapengela area on behalf of his brother, Monde Sikato, who is the owner of the cattle.

Mr Hamoonga explained that the stolen animals include one black and white bull, one brown and white bull, and one white and brown cow, all unbranded and collectively valued at K24,000, were stolen from the kraal by Joseph Pelekelo.

Brief facts are that the cattle were secured in a kraal on February 18, 2026, at around 19:00 hours, but three animals were discovered missing the following morning at about 06:00 hours.

“Upon discovering the theft, the complainant immediately instituted a search. While in Lilondo area, two male persons were found trekking the suspected stolen animals. After a pursuit, one suspect was successfully apprehended and all three cattle were recovered,” The police Commissioner said.

He added that a docket had since been opened and the suspect was in police custody awaiting formal charge and court appearance.

He also disclosed that investigations were ongoing to apprehend the second suspect who fled the scene.

Mr Hamoonga commended members of the public for their vigilance and swift action, and urged livestock owners to remain alert and promptly report any suspicious activities to the police.

Trump’s tariff agenda unravelling, investors eye with cautious optimism

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Trump’s tariff agenda unravelling, investors eye with cautious optimism

President Trump’s signature economic agenda, his tariff regime, appears to be visibly crumbling, yet financial markets are poised to rally through the debris, asserts the CEO of global financial advisory giant deVere Group.

The assessment from Nigel Green comes after the US Supreme Court determined on Friday that President Donald Trump overstepped his legal authority in rolling out sweeping global tariffs without congressional approval, handing the White House a major setback on a policy that has defined his economic agenda, and to a lesser degree foreign strategy since returning to office in January 2025.

Nigel Green says: “This ruling strikes at the core of the administration’s economic doctrine.

“Trade confrontation was positioned as the engine of renewed domestic strength.

“Instead, it now faces constitutional limits, market scrutiny, and diminishing economic returns.”

He continues: “Tariffs were sold as a lever to rebalance trade and protect US industry. In practice, they have functioned as a tax on importers, many of whom passed costs directly to consumers.

“Corporate margins have tightened in sectors reliant on global supply chains, and investment decisions have been delayed amid policy uncertainty.”

Recent economic data underscore the fragility of the current environment. Growth has moderated from last year’s pace, while inflation measures have shown renewed firmness in categories exposed to higher import costs.

Wage growth remains solid, yet household purchasing power is constrained by elevated prices in services and goods.

The deVere CEO explains: “The economy’s not collapsing, but it’s losing velocity. Inflation remains persistent enough to limit policy flexibility, and business confidence is sensitive to abrupt regulatory and trade shifts.

“Today’s Supreme Court’s decision injects a new variable into that equation.”

Despite the political blow, he argues markets are unlikely to respond with sustained panic.

“Investors differentiate between political theatre and earnings power. Equity markets are forward-looking, and they are being supported by strong balance sheets in major US corporations, continued capital expenditure in AI and tech, and expectations that policymakers will ultimately avoid extreme outcomes.”

He adds: “Large-cap equities, particularly in AI infrastructure, semiconductors, and cloud computing, continue to attract global capital.

“Even if tariff authority is curtailed, the structural investment cycle in advanced computing and automation remains intact.”

Bond markets, however, may react with greater nuance.

“If tariffs are rolled back or diluted, some inflationary pressure tied to import costs could ease over time, which may support the longer end of the Treasury curve. Yet persistent fiscal deficits and firm wage growth can also be expected to keep upward pressure on yields.”

Currency markets face competing forces.

“The US dollar could experience bouts of volatility. Reduced trade tension may support global risk appetite, tempering safe-haven flows into the dollar.”

He cautions against simplistic conclusions. “A judicial setback does not automatically reverse the economic trajectory. Implementation timelines, potential legislative responses, and geopolitical reactions all matter.

“Markets will price in probabilities.”

Corporate America, he observes, is likely to adapt quickly.

“Many multinationals have already diversified supply chains and restructured sourcing strategies in anticipation of prolonged trade friction.

“A recalibration of tariff authority may ease cost pressures incrementally, but strategic shifts made over the past year will not be undone overnight.”

Nigel Green concludes: “President Trump’s tariff-driven strategy is under clear strain following this ruling.

“The legal boundary has been reinforced, and the economic case for broad-based trade barriers has weakened.

“Yet financial markets are pragmatic. If the result is greater clarity, reduced policy unpredictability, and sustained investment in AI and tech, equities can advance even as the political narrative fractures.”

“Investors should expect volatility around policy announcements and court developments, firmer scrutiny of fiscal sustainability, and selective strength in sectors with durable earnings growth.”

Expanding Scientific Landscape of Thymosin Beta-4: Regeneration, Repair, and Cellular Dynamics

Lusaka Times Editor
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Expanding Scientific Landscape of Thymosin Beta-4: Regeneration, Repair, and Cellular Dynamics

Expanding Scientific Landscape of Thymosin Beta-4: Regeneration, Repair, and Cellular Dynamics

Thymosin Beta-4 (TB-4) has emerged over the past decades as a particularly intriguing molecule within peptide research, drawing sustained attention for its diverse biochemical properties and its potential roles across numerous investigative domains. First isolated from thymic tissue, the peptide has since been identified throughout a wide array of tissues and fluids in the research model, prompting ongoing scientific curiosity regarding its possible contributions to cellular maintenance, structural integrity, and regenerative processes.

As research models and molecular analyses have expanded, the peptide has become central to multiple theoretical frameworks seeking to explain how research models orchestrate repair, maintain structural cohesion, or respond to environmental and physiological stressors. While no unified consensus exists regarding the full scope of TB-4’s activity, investigations purport that the peptide may interact with fundamental cytoskeletal pathways, may support signaling cascades, and support various aspects of tissue remodeling. The following discussion synthesizes the principal domains in which TB-4 has been explored, drawing from current scientific literature while maintaining a speculative and hypothesis-driven tone appropriate to its ongoing study.

A Unique Structural Profile and Its Biochemical Implications

Thymosin Beta-4 is a 43-amino-acid peptide that has drawn interest due to its high affinity for monomeric actin (G-actin). Research indicates that this association might place the peptide at a crucial juncture in the regulation of cytoskeletal dynamics. Because actin is central to cellular movement, adhesion, division, and structural organization, TB-4’s putative support for actin sequestration and mobilization positions it as a candidate molecule underlying various repair-associated phenomena.

Rather than functioning as a static binder, it has been theorized that TB-4 might help maintain a reservoir of actin monomers available for rapid deployment when cellular structures require modification or reinforcement. This theory aligns with observations in research models where fluctuations in TB-4 expression appear to correlate with stages of tissue restoration or early responses to structural injury. While mechanisms remain under review, such observations have motivated multidisciplinary interest in mapping TB-4’s role at the interface of cellular architecture and organism-wide adaptation.

Potential Roles in Tissue Remodeling and Structural Repair

One of the most widely discussed aspects of TB-4 research relates to its hypothesized contributions to tissue remodeling. Investigations purport that the peptide might support processes linked to repair by supporting cell migration, extracellular matrix reorganization, and architectural realignment within injured environments.

Research indicates that TB-4 may upregulate certain matrix-modulating proteins, including molecules involved in collagen deposition or degradation. These interactions might indirectly shape the mechanical and structural attributes of regenerating tissues. Additional lines of inquiry propose that the peptide might modulate the expression of proteins associated with cellular motility, theoretically facilitating the repositioning of repair-oriented cells toward sites requiring reconstruction.

Another interesting dimension of TB-4’s proposed activity lies in its potential involvement with angiogenesis-related pathways. Some investigations suggest that TB-4 might support proteins or transcription factors tied to vascular structuring, possibly enhancing nutrient exposure and waste removal in regenerating regions. Although the exact molecular drivers remain incompletely delineated, this angiogenic angle has encouraged researchers to explore TB-4’s role in conditions characterized by compromised or insufficient vascular adaptation.

Exploring Anti-Inflammatory and Immune-Modulating Properties

A growing body of literature has speculated on the peptide’s potential anti-inflammatory implications. Research indicates that TB-4 might support the regulation of cytokines and other immune signaling components that shape inflammatory cascades. Rather than acting as a direct suppressor, it has been theorized that the peptide may shift the balance of immune responses, tilting them toward resolution or stabilization following injury or structural stress.

Some investigations purport that TB-4 may interact with pathways involving interleukin modulation or transcriptional factors tied to inflammatory gene expression. Additionally, the peptide has been examined for its potential to reduce oxidative stress markers within research models, suggesting a wider network of biochemical interactions that might collectively create an environment favorable to tissue recovery and structural normalization.

Regenerative Biology and the Hypothesis of Cellular Plasticity

Another compelling sector of TB-4 research concerns its theorized contribution to regenerative mechanisms. Scientists have long sought molecules that might unlock or enhance endogenous regenerative potential within organisms. Because TB-4 levels appear to increase in regions undergoing repair, some investigators have proposed that the peptide might serve as a signal for regeneration-related responses.

Investigations have explored TB-4’s relationship to proteins that support stem-cell–associated dynamics. Some findings suggest that the peptide might encourage progenitor cell mobilization or differentiation, potentially guiding certain cell types toward fates helpful in structural restoration. Though these concepts remain speculative, they have positioned TB-4 as a molecule of high interest within the broader field of regenerative biology.

TB-4 and Cellular Stress Response Pathways

A growing area of scientific discussion involves the peptide’s possible role in cellular stress resilience. Research indicates that TB-4 might interact with signaling networks governing apoptosis, oxidative stress responses, and cellular survival pathways. These proposed interactions suggest that the peptide might help stabilize cells experiencing mechanical stress, metabolic disturbance, or structural compromise.

Some researchers theorize that TB-4 might support mitochondrial organization or antioxidant pathways, potentially contributing to the preservation of cellular integrity under challenging conditions. Although these hypotheses require further validation, they broaden the perceived scope of TB-4’s potential support, suggesting a multifaceted role in metabolic stability during adversity.

Potential Implications on Fibrotic Pathways

Fibrosis, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix accumulation and disrupted tissue architecture, is an area where TB-4 has attracted significant attention. Investigations purport that TB-4 might interact with factors regulating fibrotic progression, such as transforming growth factor-related proteins or collagen-modulating enzymes.

While findings are varied, some research indicates that the peptide might help promote balanced matrix turnover, possibly moderating maladaptive scarring processes in certain contexts. Given fibrosis’s broad relevance across numerous tissues, TB-4’s theorized involvement in fibrotic regulation remains a major focal point of current and future inquiry.

Conclusion

Thymosin Beta-4 remains one of the most intriguing peptides in regenerative and structural biology. It’s hypothesized that interactions with actin regulation, tissue remodeling pathways, angiogenic signaling, immune modulation, stress responses, and neurological organization position it as a central molecule of interest across multiple research disciplines.

While much remains to be clarified regarding its precise roles, research continues to expand theoretical models that place TB-4 at the crossroads of repair, adaptation, and cellular architecture. As new analytical tools and molecular profiling technologies advance, the peptide’s full spectrum of implications may eventually be mapped with greater clarity, offering deeper insight into how research models orchestrate resilience and regeneration at the microscopic level. For more useful peptide research, check this study.

References

[i] Goldstein, A. L., Hannappel, E., & Kleinman, H. K. (2005). Thymosin β4: actin‑sequestering protein moonlights to repair injured tissues. Trends in Molecular Medicine, 11(9), 421–429. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.molmed.2005.07.004

[ii] Shah, R., Reyes‑Gordillo, K., & Rojkind, M. (2018). Thymosin β4 inhibits PDGF‑BB induced activation, proliferation, and migration of human hepatic stellate cells via its actin‑binding domain. Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy, 18(sup1), 177–184. https://doi.org/10.1080/14712598.2018.1478961

[iii] Sosne, G., Qiu, P., & Goldstein, A. L. (2006). Increasing intracellular concentrations of thymosin beta 4 in PtK2 cells: Effects on stress fibers, cytokinesis, and cell spreading. Journal of Cell Science, 119(12), 2712–2720. (Based on the findings in PtK2 cells; original research)

[iv] Qin, L., Mikami, A., & Gupta, S. (2012). Thymosin β4 and cardiac protection: implications in inflammation and fibrosis. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1259, 58–64. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1749-6632.2012.06516.x

[v] Bock‑Marquette, I., Saxena, A., & Smart, N. (2006). Thymosin β‑4 promotes dermal healing. In Vitamins & Hormones (Vol. 102, pp. 251–275). Academic Press. https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.vh.2016.04.005

Power Back To League Action

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Power Back To League Action

Defending champions Power Dynamos shifts focus to their Super League title defence after exiting the CAF Champions League at the group stage last week.
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‎Power on Saturday faces struggling side Napsa Stars away at Woodlands Stadium in Lusaka as they play catch up in the top league.
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‎Placed second in the league, coach Oswald Mutapa’s Power have the potential to catch leaders Red Arrows provided they win their delayed matches.
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‎Power sits on 35 points, four behind Arrows, after playing 17 matches.
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‎Power’s Saturday opponents Napsa are just one place above relegation.
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‎”Yes, they lost their first game, but this game might be tough because they would want to prove something,” Mutapa said in a pre-match comment.
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‎Meanwhile, leaders Arrows are away to Nchanga Rangers in Chingola on Saturday.
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‎Elsewhere on Saturday, Nkana hosts tricky Kabwe Warriors in Wusakile as they seek to bounce back from their loss in 2026 suffered at Green Buffaloes.
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‎”We want to make sure we make our people happy. I am very happy because they (our fans) don’t lose confidence in us. They trust us and I know tomorrow we must give them good results,” Nkana coach Mwenya Chipepo said.
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‎Nkana will be without the injured captain and midfielder Harrison Chisala.
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‎MTN SUPER LEAGUE
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‎WEEK 22
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‎SATURDAY, 21ST FEBRUARY, 2026
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‎Napsa Stars vs Power Dynamos
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‎Mines United vs Green Buffaloes
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‎FC MUZA vs Green Eagles
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‎Nchanga Rangers vs Red Arrows
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‎Nkana FC vs Kabwe Warriors
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‎Kansanshi Dynamos vs Mutondo Stars
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‎SUNDAY, 22ND FEBRUARY, 2026
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‎Nkwazi FC vs Zanaco
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‎FC Leopards vs Konkola Blades
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‎Zesco United vs Mufulira Wanderers

President Hichilema calls for patriotism, co-existence during elections

Guest Editor
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President Hichilema calls for patriotism, co-existence during elections

 President Hakainde Hichilema has called on Zambians to rise to the highest standards of patriotism, integrity and peaceful co-existence before, during and after the elections.

Mr Hichilema says Zambian citizens must reject all forms of violence, say no to hate speech and detest  cybercrimes before, during and after elections.

The media reports that speaking when he addressed Parliament on the progress made in the application of national values and principles in Lusaka today, President Hichilema urged citizens to reject divisive politics.

“We, therefore, call upon all political actors once again, all candidates, all supporters, civil society, the church, traditional leaders among others to demonstrate a high level of restraint, respect and responsibility as we head to the polls,” he said.

The President reiterated that national values and principles are an embodiment of citizens as a people, adding that national character and policy choices are firmly anchored on the values and principles.

“Notwithstanding the tremendous progress we have made together, we have more work to do, we all have a duty to turn our national values and principles into action from a place of love and deep care for our people,” he said.

And the President has announced that the kwacha has been one of the best performing currencies in the world and that inflation is coming down and economic fundamentals are getting better.

He added that citizens are yet to feel the full benefits and that the cost of living should be stabilised further.

“But with Macroeconomic stability now firmly in place, the benefits will increasingly be felt by the citizens through a gradual but sustained easing of the cost of living,” Mr Hichilema noted.

He observed that as the Government works to increase wages, there is a need to partner with the private sector to help further drive down the cost of doing business to stabilise prices for the benefit of the people.

The President further commended the Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM) for responding to positive economic fundamentals by lowering prices and urged others to do the same.

Meanwhile, President Hichilema has promised to increase the allocation to the constituency Development fund next year in a quest to continue empowering the youth, women and the vulnerable in communities.

He said this is a giant step in the right direction and that his Government will not rest until every Zambian family feels the benefits of the generational change.

“We are delivering for the Zambian people from a place of love and deep care, more health services are now within reach for our communities, with provision of life saving ambulances,” he added.

On the amendment of the constitution recently, President Hichilema expressed happiness that the initiative has resulted in the country undertaking the delimitation exercise soon.

He said it is gratifying that even people that were opposed to the constitution amendment are now looking for the delimitation of large constituencies so that they can stand as Member of Parliament in those areas.

In the education sector, the President stated that Government has expanded the school feeding programme from 1.5 million in 2021 to 4.7 million learners in 2025 aimed at improving the quality of education.

He indicated that it is gratifying that the Interventions are contributing to improved school attendance, retention and learning outcomes among vulnerable learners, particularly in rural and under-served communities.

“In 2025, we recorded an impressive pass rate in public schools of 70 percent at grade 12, the highest ever in the history of our country, this was not an accident, it was the direct outcome of well-planned policy reforms,” he said.

Earlier, the President indicated that the Government has tackled the electricity challenge head-on, drastically reducing the hours of load shedding and in many locations completely ending it.

Government allocates K52 billion for debt servicing

Guest Editor
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Government allocates K52 billion for debt servicing

Ministry of Finance and National Planning Economist Samantha Longwe has disclosed that government has allocated 52 billion towards domestic debt servicing in the 2026 budget.

Making a presentation during a citizens budget dissemination meeting, MS Longwe stated that 21.7 billion will be used to repay borrowed external and domestic loans.

“We have 4.7 billion which will be used to pay arrears to local suppliers of goods and services to ensure that there is enough money circulating in the economy” Ms Longwe said.

Ms Longwe further stated that 1.2 billion has been allocated towards conducting general elections while 1.4 billion will be for local government equalisation fund.

“Under the general public services 92.6 billion has been allocated and the key focus area include dismantling of arears and empowering local people,” Ms Longwe said.

Officiating at the meeting Provincial Deputy Permanent Secretary Luckson Mulumbi has stated that budget implementation affects everyone therefore it is imperative for every stakeholder to understand it’s content.

“It is imperative for every stakeholder to understand what the budget is saying in the area of health, education and agriculture,” Mr Mulumbi said.

Mr Mulumbi stated that the need to simplify the budget for easy understanding for everyone cannot be over emphasised.

“As government in North-Western Province we are also hopeful that this meeting will bridge the information gap between government’s allocation of resources but also serve as a forum to engage various economic actors on how government allocates resources,” Mr Mulumbi said.

Lusaka Province records reduction in maternal deaths

Guest Editor
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Lusaka Province records reduction in maternal deaths

Lusaka Province has recorded a reduction in maternal deaths from 180 in 2024 to 156 in 2025.

Lusaka Province Health Director, Simulyamana Choonga has attributed the reduction to team work, strengthened systems and partner support.

He was speaking in Lusaka during a high-level meeting for the 2022 to 2026 Accelerating Measurable Progress and Leveraging Investments for Postpartum Haemorrhage Impact (AMPLI-PPHI) project, an initiative led by Jhpiego (pronounced; Jar-Pie-Go).

Dr Choonga further revealed that neonatal deaths have also reduced from 1,363 in 2024 to 1,226 in 2025.

And Dr Choonga said the provincial strategy of handling postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) cases will be aligned with updated World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines adding that the evidence signifying effectiveness of WHO-recommended PPH interventions was convincing.

The Provincial Health Director also disclosed that under the initiative, maternal health services at 27 health facilities in Chongwe, Kafue, Lusaka and Chilanga districts have been strengthened.

Dr Choonga said the government desires to rollout the initiative to Rufunsa and Luangwa districts.

“The evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of WHO-recommended PPH interventions is compelling. Lusaka Province is eager to scale these innovations to all remaining districts, ensuring no woman is left behind in life-saving maternal health interventions,” he said.

Meanwhile, Jhpiego Country Director Costatine Malama thanked the government for providing leadership in the implementation of the AMPLI-PPHI project.

Dr Malama reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment towards supporting government in tackling maternal mortality.

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