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President Lungu thanks Donors to the COVID-19 Fight as Zambia continues to record Zero new cases

Chief Editor
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President Lungu thanks Donors to the COVID-19 Fight as Zambia continues to record Zero new cases

President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has thanked the Church, the different Political Parties as well as the Donor Community, both local and foreign for standing in solidarity with his government in the fight against the Coronavirus virus (COVID 19) in the nation.

In a message of gratitude was delivered by Health Minister Dr. Chitalu Chilufya at the daily briefing on the status of COVID 19 in the nation, at the Ministry of Health Headquarters in Lusaka this afternoon, President Lungu stated that when a country is faced with a calamity the magnitude of COVID the virus, it becomes important for all stakeholders to come together and mount a common fight in unison to ensure that the common threat to the existence of mankind is defeated.

He said President Lungu had emphasised the need of striking a balance between averting a health catastrophe and ensuring that the livelihood of the zambian citizens is supported and also ensuring that the economy continues to run.

“On behalf of His Excellency, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, I would like to thank all political parties that have come in solidarity with the government and the Zambian people, to come and participate in the collective fight against COVID 19. We would like to thank the church for partnering with the government in the fight against COVID 19. This is as should be,” the Health Minister said.

“I therefore on behalf of President Lungu and His Government, place on record our profound appreciation for the solidarity from the various political parties and religious groupings,” he said.

“I also reiterate our gratitude to all that have participated in the fight against COVID 19 thus far. The corporate world, various banks, the association of the Indian community in Zambia, Lamasat and many others too numerous to itemize,” he added.

The Minister also took time to thank the various cooperating partners such as the United States Government, CDC, the Chinese and Japanese Governments, the British Government through DFID, the UN system, the European Union and the World Bank.

“The community is also highly appreciated. The index of suspicion has been very high and you have alerted us on a number of activities happening in the community that have been of significant importance. And we have worked together to protect the public and the nation from COVID 19,” he said.

At the briefing, Bread of life church donated a cheque of K100,000 towards the fight against COVID 19 which was delivered by Bishop Joseph Imakando. 3 Political parties also made their donations. From the New Congress Party, the COVID 19 fight was beefed up with 75,000 cash money with 1000 bags of mealie meal, delivered by Party President Mr. Peter Chanda. From the Zambia Republican Party was a cash donation of 50,000 with 1000 bags of Mealie Meal, delivered by Party President Mr. Wright Musoma. United Party for National Development (UPND) donated 200 bags of Mealie meal, bathing soaps and some sanitizers among other items, delivered by Mrs. Mutale Nalumango.

Dr. Chilufya updated the nation no new cases of Covid 19 had been recorded in the last 24 hours making it 6 consecutive days without a new positive case and that that the number of recoveries remains 7

Zero-tolerance on tobacco consumption particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic gets support

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Zero-tolerance on tobacco consumption particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic gets support

The Centre for Trade Policy and Development has commended the government particularly the Ministry of Health for its zero-tolerance on tobacco consumption particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Whilst updating the nation on the progression of COVID-19 at a recent press briefing, the Minister of Health recently shed light on the dangers of tobacco consumption and the added risk that it presents in so far as prevention and treatment of COVID-19 IS concerned.

The Minister of Health discouraged Zambians from smoking and exposing themselves to tobacco smoking.

Tobacco related illnesses such as heart and respiratory diseases, account for more than 7000 deaths in Zambia annually at a cost to the economy of approximately K2.8 billion, according to the Ministry of Health’s Investment Case for Tobacco Control in Zambia.

A study conducted at Harvard University and published in the Tobacco Disease Journal, also revealed that smokers are at a greater risk of contracting COVID-19 and can suffer complications such as Pneumonia should they contract COVID-19 than non-smokers.

The tally of COVID-19 infections in Zambia now stands at 39 with 7 recoveries and 1 death. Although no new infections have been reported in 5 days, however this does not mean that the further spread has been eliminated.

CTPD Researcher Chileshe Mange said the public must remain vigilant and continue to implement social distancing and self-quarantine measures.

Ms Mange has also urged the government to enhance enforcement of existing legislation which prohibits smoking in public places such as the Public Health Regulations, Statutory Instrument number 163 of 1992 and the Local Government Prohibition of Smoking in Public Place) Regulations Statutory Instrument number No. 39 of 2008.

She said these regulations prohibit smoking in all public places including smoking in hospitals, health centers and public transport.

Ms Mange said in addition, the burden that COVID-19 has placed on the public health system and the inter linkages between the disease and tobacco consumption provide a further impetus for Parliament to pass the Tobacco Products and Nicotine Products Control Bill as soon as practicable in order to enhance and harmonize tobacco control efforts.

She has also recommended that the government accelerate Zambia’s accession to the Protocol on the Elimination of the Illicit Trade on Tobacco Products which is the first protocol developed as a result of the World Health Organization Framework Convention On Tobacco Control.

Ms Mange said the essence of the ITP is to reduce all forms of illicit trade in tobacco products such as production of counterfeit and contraband, tax evasion and smuggling.

She said approximately 30 percent of the tobacco products such as cigarettes in Zambia enter the market illegally which increases access of cigarettes to the public and contributes to increased consumption, especially among youths and adolescents.

Ms Mange said the accession of the country to the ITP will provide a legal basis to implement stricter tobacco trade and control measures.

Government commended for the measures that have been instituted to fight COVID-19

Chief Editor
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Government commended for the measures that have been instituted to fight COVID-19

The Policy Monitoring and Research Center has commended Government for the concerted efforts and measures that have been instituted this far to fight COVID-19.

The PMRC says it is collaborating with Government agencies to recommend implementation modalities to some of the measures being put in place.

Bernadette Zulu, the PMRC Executive Director says her Organisation is also contributing with widespread dissemination of information to increase awareness and also challenging the citizenry to play their part.

Mrs Zulu said it is also commendable that Government has ensured that movement of goods is not affected by putting in place logistics to allow for market reach.

She said in a statement that this among other things also reaffirms that agriculture production and marketing are uninterrupted in this difficult period.

Mrs Zulu said the Government is doing its part and this is therefore a call for all citizens to also be responsible and endeavor to adhere to all the guidelines as provided by the Ministry of Health.

She said the coronavirus is not just a public health crisis as it has affected every sector and therefore every institution and individual must be involved in the fight.

Mopani copper mines should heed the governments directive and peoples call not to put the mine under care and maintenance

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Mopani copper mines should heed the governments directive and peoples call not to put the mine under care and maintenance

As president of the Association of Unemployed Youths speaking on behalf of the organization and my fellow youths I urge Mopani Copper Mines to heed not only the governments directive but also the peoples call not to put the mine under Care and Maintenance because in the long run, it’s in the company’s and the peoples best interest.

Conditions prevailing on the ground cannot be tantamount to “Force Majeure” which MCM wants to use as a scapegoat.

MCM should not test the patience of the Zambian people. Durinng hard times like this, when our country is struggling is when they are supposed to show care, support and solidarity. They should not think the meagre Corporate Social Responsibility package they give has ever been enough compared to the billions of dollars they have been getting from these mines.

Laying off 11,000 workers is ridiculous more especially at this time when we are battling the economical effects of the covid19. Having been concerned with affairs of the youths I have noticed that in these instances its the youths who suffer the biggest blow because they are always in majority of the people who get laid off. Such decisions have ripple effects both economically and Socially. Not beating about the bush, they have the ability to foster crime.

I want to caution Mopani Copper Mines PLc not to play games or arm twist the government by using scare tactics. I am not suggesting anything but this is also how their colleagues from KCM started. They should take a big leaf from what happened to their colleagues.

Fellow countrymen and women the time is nigh when we should stand together and fight for the betterment of our country and it’s people. Let’s put our differences aside and fight for the common good.

I stand with the government of the republic of Zambia on this note.

Aluta continia

David Chishimba
AUY President
Youth Advocate
Youth Commander.

Kaizer Zulu reconciles with Chitambo MP Chanda Mutale after an altercation at a Mall

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Kaizer Zulu reconciles with Chitambo MP Chanda Mutale after an altercation at a Mall

Former President Edgar Lungu’s political advisor Kaizer Zulu has reconciled with Chitambo Member of Parliament Chanda Mutale after an altercation which occurred at East Park Mall on 21st March 2020.

According to Mr Zulu, the two have met and discussed the unfortunate incident that took place at the Chicago Bar and Restaurant.

In a statement, Mr Zulu said he regrets the altercation he had with Mr Mutale especially that the incident took place after they both were intoxicated.

He said he and Mr Mutale have taken counsel from friends and the leadership of the Zambia Police Command and has buried whatever differences he may
have had with Mr Mutale and intend to work with him in harmony.

“Consequently, I wish to state that I inadvertently dragged the name of His
Excellency, President Edgar Lungu, in the issue which was purely a private and
personal altercation between me and Hon. Mutale. I misconstrued the alleged insults hurled at me by Hon Mutale as if they were targeted at the Head of State when in fact not”, he said.

Mr Zulu said this misrepresentation of what transpired is deeply regretable and has apologized to the President.

He said it is also his desire that his perceived differences with Mr Mutale will be resolved privately and outside the confines of the Zambia Police as they belong to one political family of the Patriot Front.

Mopani defiant, mines to close from today

Chief Editor
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Mopani defiant, mines to close from today

Mopani says it will go ahead and place its Nkaka and Mufulira mines on care and maintenance with effect from today.

In a statement released late Tuesday in reaction to Mines Minister Richard Musukwa objection to its plans, the mining giant stated that operating, regulatory and macro-economic environments remain very challenging and have continued to place significant pressure on the business.

The statement did not give an end date for the shutdown but Mr Musukwa said it would be for three months from April 7.

Mopani Public Relations Manger Nebert Mulenga assured that permanent Zambian employees, including those in management, would continue receiving their base salaries for the period the mine would be under care and maintenance.

“Mopani Copper Mines Plc held a number of meetings with Government Ministries on 6 April 2020 in which it provided an update of its comprehensive operational review. The operating, regulatory and macro-economic environments remain very challenging and have continued to place significant pressure on the business. In addition to the impacts of a rapid decline in the copper price, Mopani’s situation has been further impacted by the critical disruptions to international mobility, transportation and supply chains arising from COVID-19. Mopani has had to place a number of projects it was in the process of commissioning on hold until key personnel are able to travel to site,” Mr. Mulenga said.

“In the circumstances, and following consultation with its majority shareholder and funder, Mopani can no longer continue operating its mining operations and will transition those mining operations to care and maintenance (C&M) with effect from 8 April. Regarding the smelter and refinery, we currently have material on site which will continue to be processed until further notice. Mopani believes that the transition to C&M will help protect the company’s value and preserve the option to deliver our growth projects when market conditions improve.”

Mopani further stated that it would continue with its commitments and obligations to the workforce and host communities adding that it could continue engaging unions and government regarding the nature and duration of that support.

“…but we expect, permanent Zambian employees (excluding management) will be sent home on their base salary. Impacted unionised contractor employees will receive an ex gratia payment. This measure is over and above what is required by our contractual agreements. Employees and their dependents will continue to receive healthcare. Mopani will remain committed to its CSR projects,” stated Mr. Mulenga.

“The health and safety of the workforce and surrounding communities is our top priority. Mopani will engage with its employees, contractors and local communities regarding the impact of any operational change. Mopani remains committed to supporting its community projects, hospitals and schools during the period of C&M. Mopani will work with the local authorities and community leaders on how best it can continue to support its partners in light of the government decrees relating to minimizing the spread of COVID-19.”

MCM, which produced 119,000 tonnes of copper in 2018, is 73.1% owned by Glencore, 16.9% by First Quantum Minerals and 10% by ZCCM-IH.

Defiant Bar owners in Solwezi Arrested

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Defiant Bar owners in Solwezi Arrested

A joint team of health inspectors from the Solwezi municipal council, council and Zambia police officers have apprehended eight-bar owners who defied the presidential directive banning bars from operating.

Solwezi Municipal Council Assistant Public Relations Manager Esther Chirwa told the media in Solwezi that the team conducted patrols and inspections of business houses on Sunday and found some bars open.

Ms. Chirwa said the team, which conducted patrols in Kyawama, Muzabula, Magrade, Kazomba, Messenger and Zambia compounds among other areas, also confiscated merchandise and revoked liquor licenses.

She commended Solwezi residents for reporting business owners that open their premises to members of the public against the Presidential directive.

Ms. Chirwa said the precautionary measures put in place are not meant to cripple businesses but to cushion the further spread of COVID-19, adding that business owners should therefore adhere.

She said those apprehended may be tried in the fast track court.

She thanked those that have complied with the guidelines that were announced by the Head of State.

During his national address last week, President Edgar Lungu ordered the closure of bars, night clubs, gyms, cinemas and casinos with effect from Thursday 26th March 2020 in an effort to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 whose confirmed cases are now 36 in the country.

FQM pledges to abide by policies and measures to prevent COVID-19

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FQM pledges to abide by policies and measures to prevent COVID-19

The First Quantum Minerals (FQM) has pledged to abide by policies and measures which government has put in place through the Ministry of Health to prevent the possible spread of COVID-19 in the district.

FDM Acting Managing Director John Gladston said the mining company has aligned itself with government policies and measures put in place to fight the disease.

Mr. Gladston said this when Northwestern Province Minister Nathaniel Mubukwanu held a meeting with the mine’s top management in Solwezi.

He said all its experts, who travelled abroad and are returning back into Zambia are put on a 14 days self-quarantine in their homes with close monitoring by the mining clinic health officials.

FQM Clinical Occupational Health Specialist Leonie Kloppers said her staff have been conducting COVID-19 screening and testing on people entering and leaving the mining premises to ensure everyone is fit and healthy.

Ms. Kloppers said any suspected cases are referred to Kansanshi mine clinic for further investigations adding that thousands of people have been reached so far.

She said sensitizing everyone on the preventive measures such as social distancing as well as on hygiene have been conducted.

And Northern Province Minister Nathaniel Mubukwanu said government acknowledges the support the mining company has been rendering to the region.

Mr. Mubukwanu expressed happiness that the mining company has been adhering to COVID-19 preventive measures and encouraged others to do so at personal, community and workplace levels.

He said the impact of the disease on people’s lives and the economy was immeasurable adding that it was better to control COVID-19 now before it escalates to uncontrollable numbers of confirmed cases.

Zambia’s Statistics on COVID-19 are accurate, there is no need for Government to Falsify Figures

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Zambia’s Statistics on COVID-19 are accurate, there is no need for Government to Falsify Figures

The Minister of Health Dr. Chitalu Chilufya has said that that all Zambia’s statistics on COVID-19 are accurate and not manipulative and that there is no need for government to falsify figures.

Reacting to social media reports questioning the accuracy of the figures the government has been publishing during the 20th COVID-19 update, the Health Minister expressed concern with people peddling falsehoods on social media in regards to Coronavirus cases and wondered why people are coming up with wrong statistics and assured that Zambia has a reliable surveillance system that works silently and effectively.

Dr. Chitalu said that the government is not doing things haphazardly but doing everything based on scientific research while resources have been placed in contact tracing, diagnostics, quarantine, human capital which are essential for case management, risk communication.

“Let not politicize this fight but celebrate the legacy together. When the country is faced with such a thing, countrymen have to come together across the political divide and work together and celebrate together when it is overcome” he said.

“Let us move in solidarity with the guidelines that have been put in place by President Edgar Lungu in order to win the Coronavirus pandemic,” he said.

Dr. Chitalu urged the members of the public to have faith in systems put in place by the government and to rest assured that the government was doing everything possible to ensure that all suspects and their contacts are traced and tested for COVID-19 and dispelled allegations that there are more cases of COVID 19 in the nation which have not been picked out because the nation hasn’t been conducting tests on everyone.

On the latest numbers, Dr. Chitalu said that two more Coronavirus patients have been discharged and that no positive test was recorded in the last 24 hours from the 104 cases tested, making it a clean sheet for the past 5 days.

Dr. Chilufya has also disclosed that two more patients discharged bring the total number of full recoveries to 7 with 1 death from the 39 cases cumulatively out of 1085 cases with active cases now standing at 31.

He further said 1,601 people out the 7,756 have been released after completing the 14 days mandatory quarantine.

Dr. Chilufya disclosed that 631 alerts have been screened and have been discharged home after they tested negative.

And Chief Government Spokesperson Dora Siliya advised the public to be wary of some traditional healers claiming to have the cure for COVID-19.

Ms. Siliya urged the people to continue observing instituted measures of preventing COVID-19 such as social distancing and maintaining personal hygiene.

Chembo Backs Calls For Foreign Quota in FAZ League

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Mighty Mufulira Wanderers coach Tenant Chembo is in support of foreign quotas being introduced in the FAZ League.

The FAZ League has over the last five years witnessed a huge influx of imports that has seen clubs like top-flight club, Buildcon; field an entire starting XI devoid of Zambians players.

Chembo, who coached Buildcon including another gross importer of talent Zesco United, said a quota system would act as quality control for imports.

“I think it is important because I believe we are not short of talent in this country. We have an abundance of talent but they are measures that need to be put into place because some time back they was a suggestion of five (foreign players) per-team,”Chembo said.

“So I think it is all about application so that whatever we implement must be practical in order for our league to go forward.

“They must be some measures really because it is not just about bringing foreign players on board but let’s have quality foreign players to help improve the game.

“We must put a limit like they have in South Africa for example.

“We are not saying we don’t need foreign players, we need them for the improvement of our game but let’s put measures so that we can control the situation.”

President Lungu wishes British Prime Minister quick recovery

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President Lungu wishes British Prime Minister quick recovery

PRESIDENT Edgar Lungu has said that it is sad to hear of Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s admission to the Intensive Care Unit after being diagnosed with COVID-19.

In a statement released to the media by his Special Assistant for Press Mr. Isaac Chipampe, President Lungu wished Prime Minister Johnson a quick recovery.

“My thoughts are with him, his family and the great people of the United Kingdom,” he said.

The Head of State also extended his thoughts to all those who have lost loved ones from the coronavirus disease and wished a quick recovery to all who are still battling to survive from it.

“The widespread of COVID-19 is unfortunate and we all have to work together to defeat this pandemic by ensuring that our people comply with measures announced by World Health Organisation,” said President Lungu.

Yesterday the British Prime Minister was admitted to the intensive care Unit. According to latest reports, Mr Johnson is “in good spirits” after spending the night in intensive care being treated for coronavirus, and that he was stable overnight and is being given oxygen and is not on a ventilator.

The statement read “The prime minister has been stable overnight and remains in good spirits. He is receiving standard oxygen treatment and is breathing without any other assistance.He has not required mechanical ventilation or non-invasive respiratory support.”

The sad reality of the National Youth Development Council

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The sad reality of the National Youth Development Council

Doesn’t it boggle your mind as a youth that there’s no sustainable government program or policy for youths on the ground which has stood the test of time? These programs are either marred with corruption or just fail, for instance the Youth Development Fund(YDF) which was suspended a long time ago. The question is, WHY?

The reasons at the moment are too numerous to make mention. But I am sure by the end of it all, as long as there is a youth somewhere in Zambia, we will exhaust all the possible reasons and find and implement solutions.

In the mean time, let me guarantee you that not even the John Sangwa’s, Kelvin Bwalya Fubes’s or Tutwa Ngulube’s of this time will stand and sustain a long battle for us the youths. We have to get off our bums and do the dirty laundry ourselves if a youth emancipation is to be realized.Tell me any single lawyer, youth advocate or politician who has ever stood on any podium and talk about how redundant the National Youth Development council act Cap 144 of the laws of Zambia is or the programs contained in the Action Plan for Youth Empowerment and employment and i will rest the revolution I have started for the youths.

For now lets talk about Cap. 144 which the majority of the youths don’t even know exists.

As youths, to focus on Bill 10 and the eligibility of the president is a patriotic thing to do. But we also have to realize that no one is fighting our battles. We have to wake up. We have too many pressing issues that we need to raise, address and fight for.

For instance, the Ministry of Youths, Sports and Child Development is obsolete. 99% of the youths don’t even know the name of the youth minister. It’s like the ministry doesn’t even exist. One specific factor in my well researched opinion which is contributing to the ministry not to function at all is Chapter 144 of the laws of Zambia. Cap. 144 is the National Youth Development Council Act. It supports the establishment, the powers and composition of the National Youth Development Council. The council advises the Minister of youths, sports and child development on the programs which should be implemented and policies to be established in order to empower youths in terms of employment and entrepreneurship
Article 8 of cap 144 spells out the functions and importance of the National Youth Development Council. It reads as follows.

8. (1) The functions of the Council shall be- Functions of Council
(a) to advise the Minister on programmes relating to youth development;
(b) to co-ordinate youth activities;
(c) to evaluate and implement youth programmes;
(d) to assist and encourage organisations interested in youth development in
the initiation of youth training and development programmes;
(e) to initiate, operate and manage non-profit making or profit making projects
in support of youth development; and
(f) such other functions as the Minister may, from time to time, direct.

As the saying goes: “the devil is in the details”, there are a lot of things wrong with the well intended Cap. 144. For instance:-
From article 5 to 7, the act just gives too much power to the minister which renders the council toothless. When the minister says jump, the council always has to say how high.

To start with the minister appoints all the members of the council and then appoints the chairman and the vice. As if not enough these serve at the mercy and good will of the minister because they can be removed at any time the minister feels like it. Let’s look at some clauses in the act which make almost impossible to be operable.

“5. (1) The Council shall be composed of- Composition of
Council
(a) the Director of Youths;
(b) twenty-two representative members APPOINTED BY THE MINISTER,
(2) There shall be a Chairman and a Vice-Chairman who shall be APPOINTED BY THE MINISTER from amongst the members.”

“6. (1) A member, other than an ex-officio member, shall hold office for a period of three years from the date of his appointment and may be re-appointed upon the expiration of such term.”

This article doesn’t even provide a term limit for the members of the counsel. This means that if they so wish they can continue to be elected till kingdom come.

“(2) A member, other than an ex-officio member, may resign upon giving one month’s notice in writing to the Minister and MAY BE REMOVED BY THE MINISTER AT ANY TIME.”

7. Whenever the office of a member becomes vacant before the expiry of the term provided in section 6 the MINISTER MAY APPOINT another person to be a member:

Section 7 of article 9 makes reference to Subpragraph (i) and (iii) of Section 5 subsection 1. This subsection does not exist anywhere in that article.

Section 9 of Article 9;
“(9) The validity of any proceedings, act or decision of the Council shall not be affected by any vacancy in the membership of the Council or by any defect in the appointment of any member or by reason that any person not entitled so to do took part in the proceedings.”

The above articles means that any person can be invited to any council meeting and the decisions made, regardless of their influence shall be upheld.

Article 12.” No action or other proceedings shall lie or be instituted against any member, member of a committee of the Council or member of the staff of the Council for or in respect of any act or thing done or omitted to be done in good faith in the exercise or purported exercise of his duties under this Act.”
This article in itself is a lacuna, because something done “in good faith” is too open to interpretation.

16. ” (1) An application for registration as a youth organisation shall be submitted to the Secretary in such forms as may be prescribed.”

Article 16 still provides that registration of youth organizations is done by the Ministry of youths when infact its now done by the registrar of Societies under the ministry of Community Development and social services.

The way the whole act is poorly drafted is like it was meant for kids who cannot think for themselves or make informed decisions. If at all the same council exists, I am sure the show is being run by a bunch of “Yes bwana” nitwits who cannot question jack.

Comrades, colleagues and fellow combatants, I am making a clarion call on all of us the youths to make a stand and be serious about issues which affect us. Our lack of seriousness and concern about how the government conducts its programs and activities which concern us is terrifying.

My heart is burning for a revolution, to make protests if need be, until the government and other stakeholders start taking us seriously. *If you are a youth who is honest with yourself, you need to be as outraged as me.*

By David Chishimba
AUY President.
Youth Advocate.
Youth Commander.

Mopani Mines proposes to shut down operations as Government sharply rejects the plans

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Mopani Mines proposes to shut down operations as Government sharply rejects the plans

Mopani copper mine has proposed to Government to put the mines in Kitwe and Mufulira under care and maintenance.

Mines Minister Richard Musukwa announced during a news briefing that he was informed by the Glencore Executive Director that the two mines are be put on care and maintenance for effective today, Tuesday 7th April 2020 for three months.

Mr Musukwa said Mopani is citing the global economic challenges which have led to the price of copper falling to about 4,800 dollars per tonne and the disruption to international mobility due to the Covid-19 out break.

But Mr Musukwa announced that government has refused to grant Mopani mine placement under care and maintenance.

He said the plan has been rejected because the reasons forwarded by Mopani are not adequate and lack merit.

The Mines Minister said plans by Mopani Copper Mine to place its two mines on care and maintenance were unacceptable and unjustified.

Mr. Musukwa said the reasons advanced by Mopani Copper Mine to place the mines on care and maintenance fail far beyond the provisions of the law.

Below is the full statement

Mopani Copper Mine (MCM) contacted the Ministry Last week on Wednesday requesting to have a video conference with the Minister.

Yesterday on Monday 6th April 2020 at 14hrs we held a video conference involving Glencore Head of Copper Africa Mark Davies, Nathan Bullock CEO Mopani Copper Mine (MCM) with Myself and our respective technocrats.

The Glencore Executive Director informed me that the Company was going on ‘Care and Maintenance’ from Tuesday 7th April 2020 for 3 months citing 2 reasons namely the global economic challenges which have led to the price of copper falling to about US$4,800 per Tonne and disruptions to international mobility. Another reason cited was the challenge of COVID 19 in terms of putting projects on hold until key personnel can travel to the mining sites.

Mark Davies informed the meeting that some personnel in Management would be laid off while unionized workers would obtain their salaries for the 3 months from today the 7th of April 2020, after which the situation would be up for review. A further indication was made that an ex-gratia payment of one month’s salary would be made to unionized staff employed by contractors in addition to some severance package. Later in the afternoon, after the meeting an electronic copy of a letter dated 6th April 2020 addressed to the Director of Mines and copied to my office was emailed by MCM.

The letter claims that the company had taken the action pursuant to section 37(1)(d) of the Mines and Minerals Development Act which provides for closure of a mine based on Force Majeure. For avoidance of doubt, 37 (1) of the Mines and Minerals Act cited by MCM states:

“Subject to the other provisions of this section, a holder of a mining licence or mineral processing licence may suspend or curtail production of a mine for any of the following reasons:
(a) the maintenance, installation or de-commissioning of equipment;
(b) an unsafe working environment;
(c) uncontrolled pollution of the area resulting from the mining operations;
(d) Force Majeure; or
(e) a labour dispute that disrupts the mining operations”

The Ministry has studied both the letter from MCM and the oral submissions during the Video conference submission and wish to react as follows:

1. The Government of the Republic of Zambia Rejects this attempt by Mopani to put the Mines in Kitwe and Mufulira on CARE AND MAINTENANCE because it does not conform with the Law. The reason cited of Force Majeure is defined in the Law as:
“FORCE MAJEURE ” means an event which is beyond the reasonable control of a Licence holder and which makes the exploration or mining operations under the licence impossible”
The Ministry is not aware of any event that has happened that is beyond the reasonable control of MCM and which makes mining impossible.
Force Majeure relates to an event that can best be described as “AN ACT OF GOD” which clearly is beyond the control of an employer but in this case no explanation equivalent to “An act of God has been availed”.

2. The letter from MCM and the video conferencing failed to provide clear evidence of what has happened that would trigger MCM citing Force Majeure. Fluctuations to the copper price are a constant in the mining sector and cannot reasonably be classified as “Events” beyond the control of the company. The price of copper per Tonne has been fluctuating for many years. MCM came to Zambia in the year 2000. Between the year 2000 and today, the price of Copper has fluctuated from as low as US$2000 to US$9900 per Tonne. It is therefore surprising that the price of Copper can be cited as one of the reasons necessitating the need to claim ‘Force majeure’ because the current price is about US$4,800 per Tonne. This Price is not as low as some years when it was as low as US$2000 per Tonne. It is therefore shocking that this circumstance of copper being at US$4,800 Per Tonne can reasonably be considered as beyond the control of MCM, which had weathered worse price fluctuations in the past. This is clearly not ‘AN ACT OF GOD” but a normal business trend.

3. MCM claims in their letter that two weeks ago they began a comprehensive review of the business against the backdrop of an extremely challenging environment impacted by the COVID

19. Zambia as a jurisdiction registered its first two cases of COVID 19 on 16th March 2020. The timing of COVID 19 in relation to the analysis by MCM reveals that none of the COVID 19 developments in Zambia could realistically be said to have specifically impacted MCM to trigger Force Majeure. The measures taken by government to mitigate the effects of COVID 19 have hitherto not been a lock down but steps to allow commerce to continue in the country, especially the mining sector. At no point has MCM specifically raised concerns of specific goods or services being withheld that are critical for their operations. This reason therefore came as a complete surprise to the Ministry.

4. The Minister of Finance specifically took measures to mitigate the impact of COVID on the Mining Houses and the measures include:
a. Removal of provisions of SI No. 90 relating to claim of VAT on imported spare parts, Lubricants and Stationery to ease pressure on companies;
b. Suspension of Export Duties on export of concentrates in the mining sector to ease pressure on the sector and
c. Suspension of Export Duty on precious metals.

5. Last week, Mopani specifically requested to have a video conference call in the light of COVID and at no time were the issues of disruptions to international mobility raised, it’s therefore shocking that again MCM can claim these reasons amount to FORCE MAJEURE.

6. Government is aware that MCM has been attempting without success to change various aspects of their business model including the Procurement system which the Ministry challenged as not conforming with section 20 of the Mines and Minerals Development Act on giving preference to Zambians on the supply of goods and services. The government cannot therefore accept an attempt to use the COVID 19 pandemic as a scapegoat to push an agenda to lay off people without lawful reasons and circumvent the law to achieve an end.

7. The proposal by MCM is further rejected because for a mine to be put on care and maintenance, there are processes required to ensure that Mine Safety, Environmental concerns and the welfare of miners are secured. An event which reasonably can be classified as Force majeure such as a collapse of a mine or sudden flooding of the Mine after an earth quake does not present time to plan what the way forward would be. In this situation however MCM has had the time to analyse what they call a business review process that is clear on the goal but weak on the process to be undertaken.

8. Whereas the MCM letter claims that no retrenchments will be made, it categorically says some management employees will be laid off while severance packages will be granted to unionized workers under contractors. This again points to the long outstanding issue of attempting to cut off the current suppliers of goods and services in preference for a model that disadvantages Zambians. We are on record and I wish to reiterate that we shall not allow the exploitation of Zambian contractors because our law is very clear that preference must be given to Zambian providers of goods and services.

9. As Minister responsible for Mines and Minerals Development, I wish to assure first the Workers of MCM that your government will not let you down and allow MCM to circumvent the law to favour their interests. We are a pro-poor government who were elected to ensure that Zambian workers are protected and where there is justification we will allow the laying off of people but not in this situation where we clearly have MCM fishing for reasons to lay people off. This situation does not amount to Force Majeure and we believe it’s possible and allowed by the law to lay off people using the right procedure where a company engages the Unions, the contractual workers and the Government in a constructive manner.

10. I have further rejected an attempt to give government less than 24hrs notice to effectively lay off more than 11,000 workers and put a mine on Care and Maintenance. We shall further engage MCM to be more forthright and engage in genuine dialogue to look into the plight of workers and the life of the Mines in Kitwe and Mufulira respectively. There is no Force Majeure that can reasonably be seen by any reasonable person analyzing the sector. Where an Act of God or Force majeure occurs, it tends to be so clear everyone would agree that a situation has so presented itself but in this instance we do not agree as Government that Force majeure has been triggered that can justify waiving workers rights, Environmental concerns and Mine Safety. My office shall keep you updated of the developments as we continue to discuss with MCM.

I thank you

Hon. Richard Musukwa, MP
Minister of Mines and Minerals Development
7th April 2020

Covid-19 and Its Impact on Physical Activity and Sport: What the Future Holds

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Covid-19 and Its Impact on Physical Activity and Sport: What the Future Holds

By Sombwa Knox Musunsa

The Corona Virus, otherwise known as COVID-19, continues to wreak havoc across the globe since December, 2019 when it first broke out in Wuhan, China. The pandemic has had significant impact on the globe and life as we know it, affecting millions of people. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), there were 750 890 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 36 405 deaths resulting from the pandemic up until 31st March, 2020.

The COVIC-19 has had a significant impact on nearly all sectors of society including public health and the economy as a whole. Physical activity and sport have not been spared. In an attempt to reduce the spread of the virus and prevent new cases occurring, many countries took steps to suspend or cancel sport events and related activities in line with advice from WHO aimed at avoiding mass gatherings of people. This has been cemented by calls for people to stay at home, practice social or physical distancing and engage in regular washing or sanitizing of hands to avoid or reduce infections. Notable among the sport events that has been affected by the pandemic is the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games from July/ August, 2020 to July/ August, 2021. Globally, the suspension of sports and recreational events has resulted in huge revenue losses for hosts and sponsors. The impact, which is yet to be fully analysed, could stretch into billions of US dollars in terms of losses, while the immediate impacts will be seen through massive job losses, immediate or long term closure of businesses directly or indirectly dealing in sport and recreation, reduced funding to the sector and a reduction in implementation of sport programmes.

At the home front, Zambia has not been spared from the pandemic with 36 cases recorded as of 31st March, 2020. Although the cases currently seem insignificant, the Government of the Republic of Zambia has taken far-reaching steps to ensure reduction in cases as well as full recovery of patients. Some of the measures announced by the Republican President, His Excellency, Edgar Chagwa Lungu in his recent address to the nation include, but not limited to; i) closure of all airports except the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, ii) closure of all bars, night clubs and restaurants, and iii) hosting of public gatherings with not more than 50 people at any given time.

With the advent of the pandemic in Zambia, the nation has been affected in various areas of society and development. Physical activity and sport have also been affected with a number of events suspended or cancelled. The potential impact and loss of revenue from the combined hosting fees across the period of the pandemic, could cost the country millions of Zambian kwacha. Additionally, the country could face significant job losses and closure of businesses connected to recreation and sport such as gyms.

The Government of the Republic of Zambia has proposed key economic measures to be implemented presently and post COVID-19 pandemic to cushion the significant economic challenges that the Zambian citizens will face as a result of the pandemic. Such measures could ensure rapid recovery of the country and its economy from the dreaded pandemic. The sports sector, as indicated, will receive a significant share of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic over the short and long term. In this regard, we must pause and ask ourselves the following important questions:
i) What remedial measures does the country take to ensure sustainability of the sports sector during and after the blustery periods of the pandemic?

  1. How can sport be used as important factor in cushioning the impact of the pandemic?
  2.  How can we ensure physical activity and sport are practiced in a safer environment that permits mass participation post COVID-19?

With these questions in mind, we shall continue to see empty running tracks, playing fields, stadiums, auditoriums, gyms, swimming pools, shooting ranges and no current sports news on out televisions. This will lead to loss of revenue by a number of businesses connected to sport and recreation as alluded to earlier in this text. However, one of the most affected aspect of sport development will be the reduced number of citizens that will be participating in physical activity and sport post COVID-19.

In order to ensure the sustainability of physical activity and sport, Governments and organisations will be compelled to change strategies of implementing programmes and engaging participants. Anything short of effective mechanisms of drawing citizens to participate in physical activity and sport will render most of the milestones in sport development and sport for development inoperable. It is, therefore, prudent for all sport development stakeholders to modify their organizational strategies in response to the present circumstances and employ approaches that will ensure sustainability of their programmes and existence.

The COVID-19 pandemic is certainly a threat and an impediment to the milestones the country has achieved in sport development. Granted the available resources and stakeholder collaboration in sport development, there remains hopefulness of physical activity and sport enduring and continuing to play an important role in global development beyond the pandemic.

This text provides general information. The author assumes no liability for the information given being complete or correct. Due to varying update cycles, statistics can display more up-to-date data than referenced in the text. The Author is a Sport Development Officer and a National Podium Performance Programme Coordinatore in Lusaka and can be  reached at Email: sombwam79 AT yahoo DOT com

Mwepu Donates to Home Town Chambishi’s Coronavirus Fight

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Chipolopolo midfielder Enock Mwepu and his childhood friend Chikabala Kaleta have donated hand wash kit to residents in the peripherals of their home township Chambishi on the Copperbelt.

The donation of 50 buckets, 50 basins and over 100 liquid soap to the people of Twaiteka, Mwambashi and Musakashi is aimed at supplementing the fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

Kaleta presented the items to beneficiaries on behalf of Mwepu in the three areas at the weekend.

“I would love to appreciate my friend, colleague and brother Enock Mwepu for his contribution toward this gesture. We need more people to come and help our communities,” Kaleta, the nephew of the late ex-Zambia star Webster Chikabala, said.

Speaking from his base in Austria, Red Bull Salzburg midfielder Mwepu said he was glad to help people in his old locality.

“It is important to remember where you are coming from. I am ready in my small way to help not only in Chambishi but beyond. I am glad to work with people like Mr Kaleta to help people in our community,” he said.

“We are promoting hand wash to slow down the spread of the coronavirus. Let our people follow guidelines from experts because this virus is deadly,” Mwepu said.

A female recipient in Mwambashi said:”We have been using small containers of cooking oil to wash our hands now we are happy to receive these big buckets and basins.”

Mwepu and Kaleta last December collaborated to organise the Changwe Kalale memorial football tournament in honour of their late friend and ex-Zambia Under-17 star.

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