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Man kills his one month old baby

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Man kills his one month old baby

A 25-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly murdering his one-month-old biological baby in Kawama Township in Ndola district.

The infant sustained a fatal injury to the right side of the forehead during a marital dispute between the parents.

According to Peacewell Mweemba, the Copperbelt Commanding Officer, the incident occurred on April 4, 2024, around 21:00 hours. Mweemba disclosed that the couple, Yona Nali, 25, and Mary Chinyemba, 30, appeared to have had a normal day as a family until Nali decided to go socialize with friends late in the evening.

Mweemba stated, “The issue of going out did not sit well with the baby’s mother, Mary Chinyemba, who advised her husband on the dangers of making movements at night. This led to a disagreement between the couple, escalating into a physical fight while the mother was carrying the baby.”

He further explained that a neighbor intervened and provided counseling to the couple. However, upon returning to their quarters, the altercation resumed. Tragically, in a fit of anger, the suspect allegedly struck the innocent baby with his fist on the head.

Following the assault, the mother reported the incident to Kawama Police Post, and the baby was rushed to Arthur Davison Children’s Hospital, where he was admitted. Despite medical efforts, the baby succumbed to his injuries later that night.

Mweemba confirmed that a murder docket has been opened, and the suspect is in custody. The infant’s body is currently at Arthur Davison Children’s Hospital Mortuary, awaiting postmortem examination and burial.

This heart-wrenching case has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the devastating consequences of domestic disputes.

Faith Musonda faces pressure as the ACC pushes for forfeiture of her properties

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Faith Musonda faces pressure as the ACC pushes for forfeiture of her properties
Faith Musonda in the company of her lawyers Makebi Zulu and Jonas Zimba at Zambia Police headquarters.
File:Faith Musonda in the company of her lawyers Makebi Zulu and Jonas Zimba at Zambia Police headquarters.

Faith Musonda finds herself at the center of a significant development in the ongoing investigation by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has taken a noteworthy step in its ongoing investigation into Ms Faith Musonda’s alleged possession of properties deemed to be proceeds of crime. Investigations Officer Ferguson Kombe has asserted that properties belonging to Musonda must be forfeited to the state, citing evidence gathered during the probe.

Kombe made these claims in an affidavit submitted to the court, opposing Musonda’s alleged filing of counterarguments on behalf of her co-interested parties, Sela Property Investment Limited and Life Television Limited. According to Kombe, investigations have revealed that Musonda acquired farm Number F-1504 in Chisamba from Sela Property Investment Limited using funds considered to be proceeds of crime.

However, Musonda refuted these allegations, stating that she does not possess any properties obtained through criminal means. Last month, she denied accusations of owning a $180,000 property in Lusaka’s Kingsland City, asserting that the property still belongs to the seller due to financial constraints preventing the completion of the transaction.

Musonda further clarified that the funds she intended to use for the purchase of the Kingsland City property are not derived from criminal activities.

The case against Musonda revolves around allegations of her possession of properties considered to be proceeds of crime, with the ACC actively pursuing forfeiture proceedingsn

In September 2021 Police in Lusaka recovered K65, 330, 000 suspected to have been stolen or unlawfully obtained from a house in Lusaka’s new Kasama area belonging to Faith Musonda
The police said during the search, they discovered 30 travelling bags containing Zambian Kwacha notes.

A further search was conducted and the team discovered a safe containing USD57,350 which was later seized and handed over to Bank of Zambia for safe keeping and further investigations.

In October 2021, the Anti-Corruption Commission announced that the Joint Investigative Team from the Anti-Corruption Commission, Zambia Police Service, Drug Enforcement Commission and Financial Intelligence Centre had since concluded investigations involving Margaret Chisela Musonda, alias Faith Musonda in which she was found in possession of ZMW 65, 333, 046 and US$ 57, 900 which was discovered in a house in New Kasama.

In a statement to the media, ACC said that the commission would not institute criminal proceedings against Ms. Musonda because Ms. Musonda made a full disclosure of the monies in question and willingly surrendered the same to the State.

According to the statement Ms Musonda was charged with Possession of Property Reasonably Suspected to be Proceeds of Crime contrary to Section 71 of the Forfeiture of Proceeds of Crimes Act No.19 of 2010.

The State had also taken possession of the House in New Kasama, in which the money was found. The House, property Subdivision No.4 of Subdivision B of Lot 11279/M, valued at K 6 Million was owned by OCK Investments Limited, a company in which Ms. Musonda is a majority shareholder. The property was reasonably suspected to have been proceeds of crime.

The ACC said it took advantage of using the amnesty in cases of asset recovery in that it saves on time by eliminating the prosecution process which can be lengthy, leading to assets losing value or getting damaged, and it also saves on the cost of investigation and prosecution.

The new developments in this case highlight the ongoing legal battle between Musonda and the ACC, underscoring the complexities surrounding allegations of financial impropriety.

SATA was right; politicians ought to begin from the grassroots

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SATA was right; politicians ought to begin from the grassroots

Although this may ruffle a few feathers; we shall call a spade a spade, and not a spoon to please a few folks! Former president Micheal Sata used to say for one to be an effective leader in politics, they ought to have commenced their political journey from the grassroots – the branch of you like, and he’d refer to himself as a perfect example.

A good number of us would take umbrage and castigate the King Cobra for what we perceived as outdated thinking. We actually argued that this was akin to suggesting that before anyone can aspire for a lofty position as Chief Executive Officer of a business, they must at least have served as a ‘malonda’ frisking the staff at the gate on their way out!

Although some of us may not have quite agreed with his kind of politics; in light of what we know now, King Cobra had a valid point, cast in gold in fact. If we take stock of how some Cabinet Ministers, Permanent Secretaries, Members of Parliament, Diplomats or even the District Commissioners have ‘insulated’ themselves from ordinary people, we are left with no choice but to somehow concur with the old man. He knew what he was talking about.

Why do we say so?

As a servant of the people, a politician is expected to be in constant touch with the people. This way, you’re at least able to have an ear to the ground which would help you greatly in decision making. There can never be a perfect place to master the craft of politics than the grassroots – shanty compounds! We’ve in mind places such as Chipulukusu in Ndola, Chibolya in Lusaka, Mulenga in Kitwe and Kapisha in Chingola where survival is indeed a real struggle.

Once politicians becomes exposed to such settlements, they’ve simply undergone ‘political baptism’ which enables them broaden their worldview. When faced with situations such as strangers calling you in the middle of the night informing you a relative has died or is seriously sick; people frequently knocking on your door requesting for assistance to buy a coffin or transport to fetch firewood and party cadres inundating you with phonecalls to say they “just wanted to greet you,” you’re already in a privileged position to respond accordingly.

We shall give a practical example. Not so long ago, Zambia News Information Services (ZANIS) staffer Kalani Muchima revealed that one day, he found himself at the PF Secretariat to cover an event. Davis Mwila, the Secretary General of the party at the time, looked at him and jokingly remarked he looked as if he was starving. Mwila invited him to his office. And voila, he was lashed a K5 pin, just like that!

Of course we are not suggesting government and party officials should emulate Mwila and start going around dishing-out loads of cash, anyhow! However, our leaders should endeavour to always share the ‘little’ that they have or at least just pay attention to the masses and listen to their lamentations.

Truth be told, the political science theories inculcated to students in lecture theatres at our universities may not resonate with places mentioned above, but may be in New York, London or Paris! This is why we support the thinking of those who insist Africa desperately needs its own homegrown solutions for whatever our woes and not necessarily copying and pasting everything from the West.

Barack Obama, arguably one of the greatest US presidents, did not hone his leadership skills and abilities by attending Ivy League schools but rather getting involved in community mobilization from a tender age. He has clearly explained this in one of his books.

When you see several individuals calling it quits from their occupations as doctors, lawyers, business executives, journalists, economists etc to join the frenzy of politics amidst a cloud of excuses that they are doing so in order to serve our people; just know ni boza, wenye, bubela, bufi, makudi, plain lies! They’re simply looking for an easy route to further create wealth for themselves and their families while the rest of the population remains suffocating in abject poverty.

Next time a politician comes your way claiming they want to serve you better, take time to interrogate their credentials: Are they generous? Have they rendered support to anyone in their communities? Do they have a history of community service?

All in all, most politicians are just chancers; they are motivated by nothing but the trappings of power!

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Has Mr. Lungu gone bananas?

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Has Mr. Lungu gone bananas?
Leemans Nyirenda

By Leemans L. Nyirenda

Soon after Mr. Nakachinda was appointed as Patriotic Front (PF) Secretary General by then Vice President of the party Mr. Given Lubinda, the two hatched up a Lungu agenda named “alebwelelapo” meant to prop up political fortunes of the beleaguered former president Lungu which continued to plummet at an alarming rate. Later, in an interview with the News Diggers and carried in its paper of 22nd September 2023, Mr. Nakachinda alleged that the “alebwelelapo” agenda did not come from him or PF but from the people of Zambia and that the PF was just backing it. It is therefore at this moment not wrong to assume that the duo did present this agenda to Mr. Lungu and judging from his rhetoric and relentless rantings of late, he must have welcomed the agenda.

Mistakenly, Mr. Lungu now thinks he is popular because he has heard the “alebwelelapo” agenda mainly from his surrogates, carefully planted across the country to sing this song. He has also forgotten that this same “alebwelelapo” song was in top gear and part of his campaign strategy in 2021 elections but the same did not save him from the humiliating defeat that befell him. But he is consoled by the fact that he still has the “kasaka ka ndalama” that he obtained when he was Republican President but blinded by the fact that those promoting the “alebwelelapo” agenda are his surrogates who may have benefitted from him through handouts or through errands to do the unimaginable during his rule as Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. They know he has the “kasama ka ndalama” and for some time now they have not received handouts and hence quickly welcomed his coming back to active politics so that handouts can find their way to their pockets and homes. They have joined the chorus sorely for the purpose of sharing the “kasaka ka ndalama”

Unfortunately, the man is so unpopular that he cannot even manage to successfully contest an election at presidential level against the incumbent, President Hakainde Hichilema. Mr. Hichilema is now reported to be 10 times more popular than the miserable and shameless Mr. Lungu despite the economic and financial traps that he left behind for Mr. Hichilema to get trapped.

It is now clear that he is very unpopular and cannot win an election against President Hichilema. He can therefore save face and try at a lower level against me for a seat in the National Assembly. I hereby challenge him to an election duel with me in Chawama Constituency just to prove a point that he is very unpopular and cannot “bwelelapo” even ku Chawama.

To pave way for the contest, and if he is not scared, I ask him to ask his daughter Tasila to resign as MP so that a by-election is held ASAP if he is man enough. I want to waya him very badly so that he goes into political oblivion once and for all. Making headlines in the print and mainstream electronic media outlets and social media will not save him from a humiliating election armageddon to come.

He has never apologized to the people of Zambia and he has been a political nuisance and very nauseating of late. His rule was a reign of terror, highly corrupt, and there was a breakdown of law and order (total anarchy) where we saw PF cadres becoming more powerful than the law enforcement officers. Aikona man. I think the man has gone bananas.

Chief Mwase Concerned With High Intake Of Kachasu

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Chief Mwase Concerned With High Intake Of Kachasu

Senior Chief Mwase of the Tumbuka people in Lundazi district in Eastern province has bemoaned the high intake of a local brew commonly known as Kachasu amongst his subjects in the chiefdom.

In an interview with ZANIS, Senior Chief Mwase said Kachasu is highly potent and causing wide-spread poverty in Mwase Chiefdom as people choose to take the alcoholic drink at the expense of engaging in productive activities.

The Chief said there is need to take punitive measures to deter people from brewing such type of alcohol to deter them from being unproductive due to drunkenness.

He disclosed that some villagers were also secretly producing the local brew and also buying some from other chiefdoms within the district.

“I have banned the brewing of kachasu in my chiefdom. However, the commodity is still being accessed from the neighbouring country during the trading time called Bwandila when Zambians and Malawians meet every Thursday to trade at a border town in Malawi,” he lamented.

He expressed concern that both men and women were in the habit of drinking beer as early as 06:00hrs and have no time to engage in productive activities such as farming and trading.

The traditional leader said Kachasu drinking had also resulted in parents not taking their children to school as they prioritise spending their little earnings on beer.

He said the selling of Kachasu was even happening within a named school grounds in his chiefdom, leading to mushrooming of brothels at Kachasu trading sites.

The chief has since called on security wings to come in and help control the situation as his efforts to fine offenders had drawn a blank.

The traditional leader observed that development would only come to his chiefdom if people stopped abusing alcohol and engaged in productive activities.

President Hichilema Launches The Lusaka International Arbitration Centre

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President Hichilema Launches The Lusaka International Arbitration Centre

President Hakainde Hichilema has commended the establishment of the Lusaka International Arbitration Centre that will provide a platform for resolution of commercial disputes.

President Hichilema noted that the centre befits international status and is expected to provide alternative dispute resolutions while helping the country improve the quality of transactions.

Speaking when he officially launched the Centre in Lusaka , the President said he expects more value from the institution to support the justice system within the country.

The Head of State said the platform is important to the overall economic expansion agenda for Zambia.He listed a number of transactions that could have been resolved without spending huge sums of money, had the Arbitration Centre been operational.

President Hichilema cited the debt restructuring that presented a complicated process, thereby causing challenges in unlocking the economy.

President hichilema during the launch of the Lusaka International Arbitration Centre

“This platform is extremely important to our overall economic reconstruction agenda, it provides a professional component to the various transactions,” President Hichilema said.

He explained that Zambia is one of the preferred investment destinations, hence the establishment of the centre will raise confidence to potential investors.

“We believe this Centre will discharge its duties to help us refine a number of frameworks for better transactions,”the Head of State noted.

He committed support to the success of the Arbitration Centre in an effort to unlock transactions that contribute to the country’s economic growth.

Meanwhile, Minister of Justice Mulambo Haimbe said the launch is a significant milestone not only for the alternative dispute resolution community but also Zambia as a country.

Mr Haimbe said the LIAC represents a new chapter for Zambia’s journey of becoming a leading centre for commercial dispute resolution in Africa and beyond.

“Arbitration has long been recognised as a preferred method of resolving commercial disputes due to its flexibility, neutrality and expertise in specialised areas,” Mr Haimbe said.

And Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry Chipola Mulenga highlighted the challenges businesses operating in Zambia previously faced in resolving commercial disputes through traditional court systems.

Mr Mulenga explained the complexities that hindered investment and economic growth in the country.

LIAC Board Vice Chairperson Lungisani Zulu said the place for commercial disputes or transactions will no longer be London but settled by Arbitration at the Lusaka International Arbitration Centre.He called on the business community to utilise the centre.

LIAC Board Chairperson Dr Chabuka Kawesha disclosed that the centre was incorporated as an alternative resolution administrational body by the private sector association including the Law Association of Zambia, Zambia Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Bankers Association of Zambia, Engineering Institution of Zambia, Italian Business Club and French Business Circle among others.

A Wake-Up Call to society: Addressing Misuse/Abuse of Natural Resources Authority By Traditional leaders

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A Wake-Up Call to society: Addressing Misuse/Abuse of Natural Resources Authority By Traditional leaders

Recent incidents in Zambia have brought attention to the significant roles traditional leaders play in the management of natural resources, prompting widespread calls for increased transparency and accountability. While the President bears primary responsibility for overseeing resource management, it is essential to recognize the substantial influence that traditional leaders wield in safeguarding these invaluable resources within their respective domains. However, the emergence of a troubling trend involving certain traditional leaders misusing their authority, particularly in the exploitation of timber and other natural resources, demands immediate and concerted action from society.

A recent report released by the Zambia Police underscores the critical need for enhanced monitoring and supervision of traditional leaders’ activities concerning resource management. The apprehension of Chief Chikwa of the Senga people in Chama District for engaging in unauthorized timber harvesting within a restricted area serves as a poignant illustration of this issue. Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, Danny Mwale, disclosed that Chief Chikwa’s encroachment into the restricted zone led to his arrest by the Central Joint Operation Committee. While Chief Chikwa awaits further legal proceedings subsequent to his release on police bond, this incident deeply reinforces the fundamental principle that every individual, regardless of their societal status, must be held accountable for their actions.

The involvement of traditional leaders in illicit activities related to the timber trade is a matter of grave concern, representing a significant breach of trust within their communities and a detrimental undermining of their authority. Multiple instances have surfaced, indicating the complicity of certain chiefs in unlawful timber trading activities across various regions.

Immediate and decisive measures are imperative to combat the pervasive menace of illegal logging and resource exploitation. Accountability must extend beyond the immediate perpetrators to encompass those who enable or condone such nefarious actions, including traditional leaders. It is imperative to fortify monitoring and enforcement mechanisms comprehensively to avert further degradation of ecologically sensitive areas and game management zones.

In my capacity as the Secretary General of the Forestry Institute of Zambia, I wholeheartedly endorse the urgent call for action against the misuse of authority by traditional leaders. Upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, and sustainability in resource management constitutes a fundamental prerequisite for safeguarding the interests of both present and future generations. Let us seize upon this wake-up call as an opportunity to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to responsible environmental stewardship.

Historical Context: Traditional Leadership and Forest Management

Traditional leaders have traditionally played pivotal roles in forest management throughout Zambia’s history, dating back to the pre-colonial era. Kings, Chiefs, and headmen exercised considerable authority over land and resources, governed by the tenets of customary law. However, the advent of colonial intrusion during the 1900s precipitated a significant diminution in the authority of traditional leaders, culminating in the transfer of forest management control to colonial administrators. Subsequently, in the post-colonial era, Zambia adopted a dual governance model, seeking to harmonize statutory regulations with traditional practices overseen jointly by governmental bodies and traditional leaders.

Governance Expert Criticizes Chief Chikwa’s Arrest

Radio Phoenix has reported the scathing critique issued by Governance Expert Wesley Miyanda regarding the arrest of Chief Chikwa in Chama district for purported timber harvesting within a Game Management Area. Mr. Miyanda contends that administrative recourse should have been pursued, given the Chief’s custodial responsibility over land. He castigates the expeditious arrest of Chief Chikwa compared to the apparent immunity enjoyed by the perpetrators responsible for the despoliation of Lusaka’s Forest 27, insinuating potential political interference.

Chief Chikwa’s apprehension serves as a poignant reminder of the broader governance challenges, particularly concerning the enforcement of environmental statutes and the delineation of traditional leaders’ roles in resource management.

The foregoing discussion underscores the inherent complexity of the issue at hand, wherein divergent perspectives emerge. While one school of thought commends law enforcement for its proactive stance in apprehending a purportedly errant chief, an opposing viewpoint advocates for administrative redress owing to the custodial responsibilities vested in traditional leaders. Nevertheless, the imperative of addressing the misuse of authority by traditional leaders necessitates a collaborative and transparent approach involving all stakeholders, encompassing governmental authorities, citizens, and royal traditional establishments.

By holding individuals accountable and fortifying governance mechanisms, Zambia can safeguard its natural endowments for the prosperity and well-being of future generations.

Lastly, I humbly request and implore His Excellency, President Hikainde Hichilema, and the esteemed House of Chiefs to intervene decisively in this matter, thereby upholding the dignity and integrity of our respected traditional rulers.

Eng Chaliafya Katungula
(Forestry Expert)
Secretary General
Forestry Institute of Zambia

UN Calls For Emergency Aid To Zambia

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UN Calls For Emergency Aid To Zambia

The United Nations has called for emergency humanitarian aid in Zambia due to the El nino induced drought, which has destroyed almost half of the country’s staple corn crop.

According to the UN Children’s Fund reports that more than six million Zambians, half of them being children, have been affected by the drought.

Speaking at a media briefing, UN Assistant Secretary General Reena Ghelani says two million crops have failed and six million Zambians are in need of food supplies due to the drought.

And Ms. Gheleni who is also the UN Climate Crisis Coordinator for El Nino said the amount of crop failure that the country has faced is very devastating and leaves many people in need of food aid.

Ms. Ghelani has called on the international community to respond quickly to avoid further damages.She stated that the government has responded quickly by releasing food from its strategic reserves but there is need for external help to fill the gaps.

Speaking at the same event UNICEF Regional Director for Eastern and Southern Africa Etleve Kadili fears that the drought might cause a huge impact on children in Zambia.

Ms. Kadili charged that the drought is likely to affect nutrition for children which might result in stunting if the crisis is not handled quickly.

Konkola Copper Mines clarifies mine accident claims

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Konkola Copper Mines clarifies mine accident claims

Konkola Copper Mines Plc (KCM) has issued a statement in response to media reports alleging a mine accident resulting in the deaths of two miners at the Chingola Open Pit (COP) number 5 on March 30, 2024. While expressing sympathy for the families of the deceased miners, KCM clarified that the COP 5 mine operation, also known as overburden number 5 (OB5), does not belong to KCM.

According to the statement issued by Shapi Shachinda, General Manager Corporate Affairs at KCM, although COP 5 was once a KCM operation area, it is currently not under the company’s ownership or management.

KCM emphasized its commitment to enforcing safety and security measures across all its operational areas to protect the lives of its employees, as well as the surrounding communities. These measures align with safety protocols mandated by the government-run Mine Safety Department (MSD).

President Hichilema Commissions Agric Hub

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President Hichilema Commissions Agric Hub

President Hakainde Hichilema has said government is resolved to work in collaboration with the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in its agenda to promote agricultural productivity and food security in the country and beyond.
Speaking when he commissioned the IITA Zambia facilities Southern Africa Research and administrative hub in Chongwe, Mr. Hichilema said the expertise the institute is providing in agriculture research will help to improve food security in the country.

President Hichilema explained that the ambitious journey Zambia has embarked on to increase crop production needs concerted efforts and effective research in the Agriculture sector.

“So we must make use of IITA in our quest to improve crop production and food security at household level, much as the country has arable land, water bodies and favourable climatic conditions, there is need to leverage on improved research in the agriculture sector, “ he said.

The President has since called on his Ministers and other stakeholders to work in unison with IITA which is expected to give Zambia varieties of drought resistant crops such as cassava.

He said the improved cassava variety that IITA has brought to Zambia gives a huge tonnage of yield per hectare and should be rolled out to all the provinces of the country for farmers to be using it.

“Zambia is currently looking for crops that are resilient to adverse effects of climate change such as cassava among others, so the research interventions that come with this IITA will help to improve on the yield, “he said.

President Hichilema further reiterated government’s commitment to empower women and youths with capital for them to venture into value addition on agriculture products.He implored Zambians to take farming as a business by mechanising the sector in a quest to make it attractive to young people who have been shunning the sector for years.

Mr. Hichilema also urged IITA to work in partnership with Zambian agriculture research institutes such as Zambia agriculture research institute among others to effectively find scientific information on how to boost the agriculture sector.

“What we want now is to increase food production to promote food security at household level, food is very important to human beings because you cannot put on a suit and tie when you are hungry, “President Hichilema said.

He said to this effect, he urged the African Union and other world bodies to prioritise and tilt their agenda on matters pertaining to agriculture and support economic issues as opposed to promoting politics only.

And IITA Director General and Regional Director for continental Africa, Simeon Ehui said his organisation is happy to launch a regional hub in Zambia which will serve as a melting pot for innovation research, capacity building and knowledge sharing in research and agriculture.

Dr. Ehui added that the partnership with the Zambian government reflects a mutual commitment to drive food systems’ transformation and improve the lives of millions of smallholder farmers in Zambia.

And Dr. Ehui announced that IITA has gained full diplomatic status as an international organisation working in Zambia, according to the Zambian government.

“This timely development will strengthen partnership with government and increase IITA and CGIAR’s contribution to the research and agricultural transformation efforts in the country,” he said.

Nigerian former President Olusegun Obasanjo called on the Zambian government to treat agriculture as a business.
He observed that once agriculture is taken as a business, it can survive in the midst of climate change conditions such as prolonged droughts among other adverse effects.

The former Nigerian President also prodded the Zambian government not to work in silos when it comes to promoting food security in the country and called for all Ministers to work together towards agriculture.

He encouraged the government to scale-up planting cassava as it is resilient to adverse effects of climate change which has ravaged the globe.

Mr. Obasanjo further commended President Hichilema on the strides he is making towards promoting the agriculture sector.
Earlier, Minister of Agriculture Reuben Mtolo praised IITA for the support they have been rendering to government in the area of agriculture for over 40 years.

Luke Fleurs, South African Footballer Shot Dead In Car Hijacking in Johannesburg

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Luke Fleurs, South African Footballer Shot Dead In Car Hijacking in Johannesburg

Luke Fleurs, a South African footballer was shot dead in a car hijacking, police say.

Messages of grief and condolences flooded social media platforms following the heartbreaking news of the hijacking and murder of 24-year-old Kaizer Chiefs center-back player, Luke Fleurs. The tragic incident, which occurred in Johannesburg, has left the football community and the nation in mourning.

Kaizer Chiefs announced the devastating news via their official Facebook page, expressing profound sadness over the untimely loss of Luke Fleurs. The club revealed that Fleurs was accosted during a hijacking incident on Wednesday evening.

The shooting took place at a petrol station in the Johannesburg suburb of Florida.

The 24-year-old Kaizer Chiefs star was waiting to be attended to when he was approached by unknown gunmen, who ordered him to get out of the vehicle.

“The suspects pointed at him with a firearm and took him out of his vehicle, then shot him once on the upper body,” Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo told local media.

One of the suspects is reported to have fled the scene with Fleurs’ car after the shooting.

Fleurs, a native of Cape Town, rose through the ranks of South African football, showcasing his talent from a young age. His journey from playing in the streets to representing top clubs like SuperSport United and eventually Kaizer Chiefs captured the hearts of many. Despite his promising career, Fleurs’ life was tragically cut short, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and excellence on the field.

Cultural Affairs and Sport MEC, Anroux Marais, expressed deep sorrow at the loss of the young football star. Marais highlighted Fleurs’ remarkable journey in the sport, emphasizing his contributions to South African football at various levels. Fleurs’ sudden demise serves as a stark reminder of the harsh realities of crime in the country, leaving a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and fans.

Social media platforms became a space for tributes and remembrances as individuals mourned the loss of Fleurs. Chelsea Roberts, in a heartfelt post, described Fleurs as a shining light whose passion and perseverance inspired many. Others, like Bruce Nadin, lamented the tragic end of a promising career and called attention to the pervasive violence plaguing South Africa.

The news of Fleurs’ death sent shockwaves throughout the football fraternity, with condolences pouring in from various quarters. SuperSport United, where Fleurs began his professional career, extended their sympathies to the Fleurs family and the Kaizer Chiefs community. The tragic incident prompted South Africa’s Minister of Sports and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, to express his sadness and call for action against violent crime.

Gauteng Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni has initiated a thorough investigation into Fleurs’ murder and the subsequent hijacking. Despite the outpouring of grief and support, the perpetrators remain at large as no arrests have been made thus far.

 

Couple Working together To Provide For Their Family

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Couple Working together To Provide For Their Family

Ask 32-year-old Ethel Kaumba of Mwansabombwe District when she´s happiest, her smile widens as he remembers her favourite time of the day.

“Every morning, my husband and I leave the house together to go to our stand at the market. Seeing him next to me gives joy,” she said.

Her husband Julius Mapalo aged, 38, feels the same way too and describes the joy of going to the market with his wife for the well being of their family as unexplainable.

“I´m happiest when my wife and I take on a bike ride to the market to go and work for our children. It gives me joy knowing we are a team and on the same page,” he said.

Ethel and Julius have been married for 9 years and have four children together.

Few years ago, the young couple was living in object poverty and could not provide for their children, as they both had no source of income.

However, in 2022 Ethel was identified as a beneficiary of the Supporting Women´s Livelihood (SWL) Programme where she received a productivity grant of K3, 790 and training in life and business skills and since then, her life and that of her family´s has never been the same.

With the help of her husband, Ethel managed to establish a trading stand at the market and the couple runs a trading business together.

Zambia Emergency Response To Benefit over 4000 Beneficiaries

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Zambia Emergency Response To Benefit over 4000 Beneficiaries

The Ministry of Community Development and Social Services says it targets to support 4,403 beneficiaries in Mambwe district on the Zambia Rapid Emergency Response Assessment.

District Social Welfare Officer, Edwin Mwewa, said the Emergency Response Assessment is meant to help households affected by the severe dry spell.

Mr Mwewa said rapid assessment and enumeration are critical in providing a timely and accurate understanding of the impact of the current shocks.

He said eligible households will be identified through listing and enumeration of potential beneficiaries which will be conducted using self-selection by community members in the affected communities.

Mr Mwewa said support to the eligible beneficiaries will be provided in form of cash and in-kind adding that all payments of the shock response will be paid digitally through the beneficiary’s preferred mobile network with a phone number registered in their name.

He said the rapid emergency response will target poor and vulnerable households that are not on any social protection programme and are affected by the drought and other major shocks.

Mr Mwewa said the rapid emergency response will also target households headed by the aged persons, households with a pregnant or lactating mother or has a child aged below two years old.

Others to be targeted are households with chronically ill persons, households with moderate and severe disabilities as well as beneficiaries of the Food Security Pack Programme(FSP).

He said beneficiaries of the Social Cash Transfer Programme will also be supported under the rapid emergency response but will not be enumerated as their names were already in the Zambia Integrated Social Protection Information System (ZISPIS).

Oasis Forum Re-Launced

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Oasis Forum Re-Launced

During an event held at the Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ) in Lusaka, a consortium of prominent organizations, including the Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ), the Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia (EFZ), the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ), the Non-Governmental Organization Coordinating Council (NGOCC), and the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB), formerly Zambia Episcopal Conference (ZEC), convened to announce the re-launch of the Oasis Forum. This forum, initially established in 2001, has been resurrected to advance constitutionalism, the rule of law, and good governance in the Republic of Zambia.

The re-launched Oasis Forum reaffirms the enduring commitment of these organizations to uphold constitutional principles and contribute to national development. Recognizing the pivotal role of constitutionalism, rule of law, and good governance in fostering the welfare of Zambian citizens, the consortium believes that continued collaboration in defending these values is indispensable.

The absence of a durable constitution that reflects the collective aspirations of Zambians has been a longstanding concern for the Oasis Forum. Despite being a signatory to various international treaties, Zambia lacks an expanded bill of rights in its Republican Constitution. The consortium stresses the importance of guaranteeing rights that uplift the living standards of all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable groups.

The Oasis Forum expresses dismay over the lack of a clear roadmap from the current government regarding the constitution-making process. Emphasizing the rule of law as the cornerstone of democracy, the consortium advocates for inclusivity, transparency, and accountability in governance. While applauding the enactment of the Access to Information Law to enhance transparency, the forum calls for greater representation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in governance structures.

The Oasis Forum reaffirms its commitment to advocating for constitutionalism, the rule of law, and good governance in Zambia. The consortium pledges to collaborate, advocate, and take lawful actions to ensure the country’s adherence to these fundamental principles. Furthermore, the forum demands a clear roadmap, including a standalone national referendum, to integrate the expanded bill of rights into the Republican Constitution.

Signed:

Bishop Andrew Mwenda, EFZ
Ms. Grace M. Sinkamba, NGOCC
Rev. Emmanuel Chikoya, CCZ
Fr. Francis Mukosa, ZCCB
Mr. Lungisani Zulu, LAZ

For Once Lets Be Happy As A Country- Kabuswe

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For Once Lets Be Happy As A Country- Kabuswe

Mines and Minerals Development Minister Paul Kabuswe has urged Zambians to celebrate the recent partnership between Mopani Copper Mines (MCM), a subsidiary of ZCCM-IH, and Investment Resources Holding (IRH) of Abu Dhabi. Minister Kabuswe expressed concern over continued propaganda attempting to overshadow the positive developments stemming from this collaboration, which led to the relaunch of operations at MCM by President Hakainde Hichilema.

Mr. Kabuswe emphasized the importance of acknowledging the progress made in mining towns such as Kitwe and Mufulira as a result of the Mopani partnership. He urged citizens to focus on the benefits to Zambians rather than perpetuating negative sentiments.

Responding to inquiries, including one from a radio caller named Mr. Mwale, who questioned the use of a Gulfstream aircraft to transport investors from Abu Dhabi to Ndola, Minister Kabuswe dismissed such claims as propaganda. He clarified that IRH had used its private plane for transportation and criticized those spreading false information, alleging that images had been manipulated to discredit positive achievements.

“This is a time to be happy,” stated Minister Kabuswe. “We have attracted investment to Mopani, resulting in improved conditions for miners, suppliers, and contractors. Mopani, once troubled like Glencore, is now a free asset under a joint venture with IRH, with Zambians playing a significant role in its management.”

Minister Kabuswe emphasized the need for sincerity and factual communication among citizens, cautioning against embracing negative publicity. He highlighted the positive impact of the Mopani partnership on the economy, stressing the importance of celebrating achievements amidst challenges such as electricity shortages and drought.

Minister Kabuswe urged Zambians to unite in recognizing and celebrating the successes in the mining sector, emphasizing the tangible benefits brought about by the Mopani partnership and the positive prospects it holds for the country’s future.

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