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Kabwe Women to Benefit from K100,000 Soft Loans Empowerment Program

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Kabwe Women to Benefit from K100,000 Soft Loans Empowerment Program

In a bid to tackle poverty and empower vulnerable women in Kabwe District, the government has allocated K100,000 for the disbursement of soft loans under the Village Bank Social Protection Programme.

According to Annie Siame, the Kabwe District Community Development Officer, the soft loans are intended to support women engaged in viable businesses and will range from K500 to K2,500 per individual beneficiary. Siame emphasized that the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services is dedicated to uplifting households from poverty through various social protection initiatives.

The selection process for beneficiaries has already commenced, with the aim of improving the socio-economic welfare of citizens in the district. Siame stressed the importance of timely repayment of the loans by beneficiaries to ensure the sustainability of the program and enable more individuals to benefit from similar initiatives in the future.

Beneficiaries who repay their loans within the specified timeframe will be eligible for subsequent loans, further enhancing their economic prospects and self-reliance. The ongoing implementation of social protection programs in Kabwe District underscores the government’s commitment to alleviating the plight of vulnerable segments of society.

President Hakainde Hichilema reaffirmed the government’s dedication to supporting vulnerable citizens during his recent national address on the drought situation affecting the country. Through the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, efforts will be intensified to provide assistance to those in need, aligning with the broader objective of poverty alleviation and social empowerment.

The empowerment program reflects a concerted effort by the government to address socio-economic challenges at the grassroots level, ultimately contributing to the overall development and well-being of communities in Kabwe District.

Nkana Rise Out of D-Zone, Power Win

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Nkana Rise Out of D-Zone, Power Win

Things are looking bright at record 13-time Zambian champions Nkana who moved out of the relegation zone for the first time this season following a 2-1 away win over bottom-paced Trident in Solwezi.

Nkana jumped three places out of the bottom four relegation zone to sit at the trap door at number 14 after stretching their unbeaten run to three straight matches with two wins and a draw.

Jacob Ngulube put Nkana ahead in the 38th minute, and Austin Banda added the second in the 56th minute to see them move to 26 points from 23 matches played.

Peter Musukuma scored newcomers Tridents’ goal in the 85th minute as their survival battle in their debut season continues to look bleak.

Nkana has thirteen league games left to save their souls.

Meanwhile, at the top end of the log on the same day, Red Arrows opened a three-point lead at the summit of the 2023/2024 FAZ Super League log after beating Napsa Stars at Woodlands Stadium in Lusaka.

One goal settled the contest in this Lusaka derby when Ackim Mumba scored in the 6th minute.

Arrows win final saw Arrows put some distance between them and second-placed Zesco United who had been trailing the two-time champions by a point since the season resumed a fortnight ago after the month-long 2023 AFCON break.

Arrows have 45 points after week 23.

Zesco had captain John Chingandu to thank away at Green Eagles in Choma to ensure they stayed in close touch with their fellow title contenders.
Chingandu equalised for Zesco in the 61st minute after Aaron Musore put Eagles ahead in the 4th minute.

Zesco are now without a win in their last three successive league matches and trace their last win to January 13 when they beat Nkwazi 2-0 at home in Ndola.

And the defending champions Power Dynamos moved within two points of Zesco on 40 points after a 1-0 home win at Arthur Davies Stadium in Kitwe over 12th-positioned Green Buffaloes courtesy of a Joshua Mutale goal in the 11th minute.

MTN/FAZ SUPER LEAGUE RESULTS AND FIXTURE
WEEK 23
02/03/2024
Forest Rangers 0-FC MUZA 1
Power Dynamos 1- Green Buffaloes 0
Nkwazi 1-Kabwe Warriors 0
Green Eagles 1-Zesco United 1
Prison Leopards 0- Zanaco 1
Napsa Stars 0-Red Arrows 1
Trident 1-Nkana 2
Konkola Blades 1-Kansanshi Dynamos 0
03/03/2024
Mufulira Wanderers-Mutondo Stars

PF President Miles Bwalya Sampa Responds to Disaster Declaration

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PF President Miles Bwalya Sampa Responds to Disaster Declaration

Statement By Patriotic Front President Hon Miles Bwalya Sampa On The Disaster Declaration In Zambia By The Republican President Hakainde Hichilema

This is not the appropriate time to jump on streams of arguments and play politics. We would like to respond to the announcement from the National Address at State House by His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema where he declared the current drought being experienced in the country as a “National Disaster”. We shall among other things highlight some other happenings in our country which we see fit to discuss.

Firstly, we wish to thank the President for taking a bold step to declare the drought incident a disaster as it is indeed a situation that has not only threatened our nation’s food security but energy production included.

As Patriotic Front, we would like to advise that the current situation is not a matter of talk and pass but one that calls on all of us in leadership, government, and all stakeholders to urgently come together with combined efforts to find not only lasting solutions but begin forthwith to implement them. The government must be in the forefront and bring to reality what it promises people and actualize them.

We further suggest long-term measures to combat drought. All areas where farming is done by our people must be prioritized and empowered with solar irrigation systems and technology immediately. We can save some maize, if not all, even now. Constituency Development Funds (CDF) in all constituencies where activities of commercial farming are done should begin to prioritize grants or loans to farmers specifically towards commercial irrigation equipments.

We believe this will not only help save the current crops but enable farmers to continue farming even after the usual farming season passes. We can see a country that took advantage of a bad situation turning itself into an all-year-round producer of maize, cassava, millet, rice, fruits, vegetables, and all other products that depend on rain to grow. Surely we can become a food basket once again.

We also want to advise the government to engage both local and foreign suppliers of maize in advance should the crop yield go to the worst this season. This will help us plan and prepare before the worst comes to our faces. When disaster knocks on our doors, we can prepare before we open the door. Therefore, it is our strongest stance to now move into mitigation measures in preparation for the poor yields expected. It is also important to begin planning on stocking up food reserves before the estimated time for the disaster to manifest after the farming season should the rain patterns stay the same.

Government should further look to promote and guarantee the private sector structured foward contracts of maize importation for 2025. Prices can be agreed now for delivery in say 6 or 12 months. This will mitigate foreign exchange risks in the anticipated maize importation that could escalate the retail prices of mealie meal.

On the rising cost of living and adverse economy currently being experienced, we can not continue politicking at the expense of our citizens who are looking to us for solutions to save them from all these poor conditions. We understand how bad things are and to think of a situation where we produce very low on the staple foods, we can’t afford to slumber . It will be detrimental to do so. These are matters of urgency and should be tackled right with the urgency it deserves. We have to find a way to bring the cost of living down to manageable levels. Our people should afford the basic commodities and it is for the government to ensure this happens through the policies it advances.

In all seriousness, we would like to urge the government to take note of our proposals here and further encourage all stakeholders and political leaders to unite on these matters for the better good of the Zambian people regardless of political divides and differences. This is the time for all of us to work together and fight the poverty that threatens our people.
Lastly, we would like to call upon the government through the Ministry of Energy to strongly consider alternative energy sources such as solar biofuels and others. This drought is not only threatening food security but also the energy sector. The consequences of this reality will be so devastating to the economy. This is because production always and surely gets negatively affected by the loss of electricity whenever we experience load-shedding due to low water levels.

I thank you

Government Applauded for Expanding Social Cash Transfer Programme to Include More Persons with Disabilities

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Government Applauded for Expanding Social Cash Transfer Programme to Include More Persons with Disabilities

The Disability People’s Organization in Kafue district has commended the government for its efforts in increasing the number of persons with disabilities enrolled in the Social Cash Transfer Programme (SCT) in the district.

In an interview with ZANIS, Disability People’s Organization Chairperson, Joseph Mwaba, expressed gratitude to the government for adding 397 new disabled persons to the list of beneficiaries for 2024. Mr. Mwaba praised the government’s commitment to inclusivity, stating that this move is a significant step towards meeting Sustainable Development Goal number 10, which aims to empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all individuals, including persons with disabilities.

“This increase in the number of disabled people on the social protection programme demonstrates the government’s dedication to addressing the needs of persons with disabilities and ensuring their active participation in society,” Mr. Mwaba remarked.

He emphasized that the collaboration between his organization and the government will be further strengthened as they work together to advocate for the rights and well-being of disabled individuals.

According to the Department of Social Welfare Progress Report, 397 new differently-abled persons will benefit from the social protection program, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 9,510. Out of these beneficiaries, 1,717 are persons with disabilities, indicating a significant effort towards inclusive social welfare initiatives.

The expansion of the SCT programme to include more persons with disabilities reflects the government’s commitment to promoting equality and providing support to vulnerable groups across the country.

Lusaka Province Witnesses Sharp Decline in Cholera Incidents

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Lusaka Province Witnesses Sharp Decline in Cholera Incidents

Lusaka Province Health Director, Simulyamana Choonga, has reported a substantial decrease in cholera cases across the province, marking a significant stride in the fight against the deadly disease.

In an interview with ZANIS, Dr. Choonga acknowledged the positive trend but cautioned against complacency, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high levels of hygiene to prevent any resurgence of the epidemic. He reassured the public that the government remains steadfast in its efforts to eliminate cholera through ongoing interventions and collaborative initiatives.

Dr. Choonga credited the success in combating cholera to effective collaboration with various stakeholders, highlighting the crucial role of community engagement and coordinated response strategies.

Meanwhile, residents of Kanyama, one of the areas previously hard-hit by the cholera outbreak, expressed their gratitude to the government for its swift action and support during the crisis. Elias Banda, a resident, lauded the reduced number of cholera cases and expressed appreciation for access to chlorinated water provided by the government.

However, Mr. Banda called upon the Lusaka City Council (LCC) to intensify garbage collection efforts in the area to further mitigate the risk of disease transmission. He also appealed for improved access to clean water, urging authorities to connect the community to the Lusaka Water and Sanitation Company for piped water supply to address contamination concerns.

As the fight against cholera continues, stakeholders emphasize the importance of sustained vigilance and collective action to ensure the long-term eradication of the disease and safeguard public health.

Human activities have caused climate change and human beings must take responsibility -Nzovu

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Human activities have caused climate change and human beings must take responsibility -Nzovu

Eng. Collins Nzovu, Minister of Green Economy and Environment, is calling upon Zambians to rally behind the government’s efforts in combating climate change, acknowledging that some of the measures implemented may face resistance.

Addressing the pressing issue of climate change, Eng. Nzovu emphasized the urgency of taking action to mitigate its devastating effects. He highlighted President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to combatting climate change and emphasized the necessity of global cooperation in addressing this existential threat.

Eng. Nzovu underscored the role of human activities in exacerbating climate change, emphasizing that it is imperative for individuals to take responsibility for their actions. He cited examples such as illegal deforestation for charcoal production and the burning of fossil fuels for energy as significant contributors to climate change.

“Is cutting down trees an act of God? Is burning fossil fuels – such as coal, oil and gas – to produce energy and power transport an act of God? Definitely not! Human activities have caused climate change and human beings must take responsibility. Some of these human activities are necessary for survival, for example we need enough energy to feed 7 billion people across the globe. Producing that energy, it involves burning of fossil fuels which emit dangerous gases in the atmosphere,” he said.

“Climate change has turned out to be a threat to the very people that the world is trying to feed. For instance, a farmer cuts trees to produce food but that act stops the rains and the life of the very farmer is threatened. From the time we formed the government, the President has always placed emphasis on the fight against climate change as witnessed through the creation of the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment. This was a message to the world that Zambia is serious about climate change,” Eng. Nzovu said.

Highlighting the interconnectedness of climate change and food security, Eng. Nzovu illustrated how deforestation can disrupt rainfall patterns, posing a direct threat to agricultural livelihoods. He reiterated the government’s dedication to fighting climate change, exemplified by the establishment of the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment under President Hichilema’s leadership.

The Minister advocated for an urgent transition to alternative clean energy sources, stressing the importance of making renewable energy more accessible and affordable for all Zambians.

“Climate change cannot be fought in isolation; we need global consented efforts. We are all affected by the devastating effects of climate change. We appeal to the people of Zambia to support and work with the government in fighting climate change. Some of the measures will not be easy to accept like halting the illegal cutting down of trees for charcoal,” he said.

“We urgently need to transition to alternative clean energy and as a government we will do everything possible to make this transition easy. We need to make alternative energy sources such as solar and gas cheaper to access.

Eng. Nzovu outlined plans to engage with the Ministry of Finance to lobby for the removal of duties on renewable energy goods and collaborate with the Rural Electrification Authority to expand access to affordable electricity in rural areas.

Eng. Nzovu expressed confidence that Zambia will overcome the challenges posed by climate change, urging citizens to stand together in support of the government’s efforts. He reassured the nation that while some measures may be difficult to accept initially, they are necessary steps towards securing a sustainable future for all.

President Hichilema Assures Nation Amid Drought Crisis

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President Hichilema Assures Nation Amid Drought Crisis

President Hakainde Hichilema has reassured the nation that no citizen will go hungry in the wake of the recent declaration of the drought as a national disaster and emergency.

Addressing mourners at the burial of prominent cattle rancher Teddy Namainga in Busangu Village, Namwala District, President Hichilema pledged that the government is taking every possible measure to ensure food security for all Zambians until the next rainy season. He acknowledged the devastating impact of the drought on farmers and assured those who lost their crops that the government would provide assistance to alleviate their plight.

President Hichilema emphasized the importance of unity among Zambians during these challenging times, urging citizens to stand together as the government works tirelessly to alleviate suffering and address the consequences of the drought.

In his tribute to the late Teddy Namainga, President Hichilema praised his contributions to the nation as a unifier and a staunch advocate for embracing diversity. He lauded Namainga’s dedication to hard work and his role in inspiring many individuals to pursue careers in ranching. President Hichilema emphasized that Namainga’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. senior citizen and rancher, Mr Teddy Namainga Mukamaangwe, in Maala area of Namwala District.

President Hichilema speaking at the burial of senior citizen and rancher, Mr Teddy Namainga Mukamaangwe, in Maala area of Namwala District
The burial of senior citizen and rancher, Mr Teddy Namainga Mukamaangwe, in Maala area of Namwala District.

Socialist Party President Fred Mmembe Criticizes Government Response to El Niño Warnings

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Socialist Party President Fred Mmembe Criticizes Government Response to El Niño Warnings

Fred M’membe, President of the Socialist Party, has voiced criticism against the UPND government’s handling of the recent declaration of a national disaster due to a prolonged dry spell. In response to President Hakainde Hichilema’s declaration, M’membe pointed out that information regarding the El Niño phenomenon and the subsequent drought was available as early as last year.

Highlighting a statement made in mid-October 2023 regarding El Niño, M’membe questioned why the government failed to heed this information, especially when the warm phase of El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) was expected to peak in November-January 2024. He accused the government of neglecting the warnings and focusing instead on selling maize and mealie-meal.

President Hichilema, invoking the Disaster Management Act No. 13 of 2010, declared the prolonged dry spell a national disaster and emergency. He directed all disaster and emergency departments to respond urgently and unitedly to the crisis. In response to this directive, several short-term mitigation measures were outlined including channeling resources towards humanitarian relief, working with the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) to provide maize to affected communities, and preventing bush burning.

Additionally, government will source additional maize and food to mitigate shortages, expanding irrigation schemes with the assistance of Zambia’s defence forces, and promoting early planting and winter maize cultivation through irrigation methods. Government also proposed supporting the importation of additional electricity, rationing energy use, and promoting alternative energy sources where feasible.

President Hichilema emphasized that these interventions are essential short-term measures to alleviate the immediate impacts of the drought and ensure that affected citizens do not suffer from hunger or other related hardships.

Zambia’s Pediatric HIV program is still lagging-MoH

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Zambia’s Pediatric HIV program is still lagging-MoH

By Dennis Chibuye

The Ministry of Health says the pediatric HIV program in Zambia is still lagging compared to the adult HIV program.

Ministry of Health Pediatric HIV Advisor Dr. Chimika Phiri said that based on the program data, as of the end of 2023, the program had managed to put about 41,256 on treatment out of the estimated 62,232 children living with HIV in Zambia.

Dr Phiri revealed this during the Pediatric HIV Indaba held at Mulungushi International Conference Center in Lusaka recently.

Dr. Phiri said according to statistics, there was still about 33% treatment gap for the children.

He said this calls for intensified efforts to find these remaining children and put them on treatment.

Dr. Phiri also stated that the viral suppression rate among the children who have been put on ART is lower than for the adults.

“Our intention is that once we put a child on anti-retroviral therapy, the health and welfare of a child should improve and this can only happen when the population of the virus is suppressed, we expect the health of a child to improve’’ said Dr. Phiri.

Dr. Phiri said the Pediatric HIV Indaba has brought together key stakeholders to discuss the pediatric HIV and the Prevention of Mother to Child (PMTCT) transmission programs.

Dr Phiri explained that the lagging behind of the Pediatric HIV program when compared to the Adult Programme was not unique to Zambia, but that similar picture has been noted in the region and beyond.

“To improve the pediatric HIV program in Zambia, we thought of bringing various stakeholders to brainstorm on what is it that we are missing or not doing well in the pediatric HIV program and propose possible solutions in addressing the identified challenges,” Dr Phiri told delegates.

He said the desire for the program is to ensure at least 95% of Children living with HIV know their status, 95% of the identified children are put on ART and 95% of those on ART achieve viral load suppression.

He added that for children to achieve viral suppression, certain things have to be followed.

“As a program we appreciate that most of the children depend on caregivers for them to take HIV medication. However, if the medications are not given in the correct amounts, correct time and consistently, chances of the child achieving viral load suppression are reduced,” he said.

“There is need to thoroughly interrogate factors that contribute to the program lag behind. There is need to address the issues such as ART adherence among children living with HIV for those on ART. The community needs to see the need for the children to know their HIV status.”

Dr Phiri also added that as a Zambia, strides have been made to improve the Paediatric HIV program.

“For example, to address some of the factors that affect ART adherence, in the past, some of the ARV formulations for children we had were not well tolerated because of the taste. children could not palate them well, but we have moved as a country, since 2021, we introduced the Paediatric DTG which is a very good ARV drug and well-tolerated by Children.”

He added, “Our expectation is that many children be able to achieve viral load suppression. Already we are seeing gradual improvement but not at the rate we desire.”

“Some measures have been put in place to improve this picture, For example, the Ministry has placed Point of Care platform for early infant Diagnosis and testing of viral load for Children and Pregnant women. This will improve the turnaround time for the test results. This will improve the testing coverage as well,” he stated.

Zambia Reports 11 million Malaria Cases In 2023

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Zambia Reports 11 million Malaria Cases In 2023

Zambia has experienced a surge in malaria cases, with over 11 million reported in 2023, a significant rise from the 8.1 million cases recorded in 2022.

According to Sampa Otiono, Assistant Director at the National Malaria Centre, this alarming increase underscores the urgent need for intensified malaria prevention and control measures. In response to this public health challenge, the National Malaria Centre aims to conduct indoor residual spraying in over 920,000 households throughout the year.

Dr. Otiono emphasized the importance of indoor residual spraying as a key intervention strategy to reduce malaria transmission and protect communities from the disease. The spraying exercise is projected to safeguard an additional 4 million people from malaria infection.

In 2023, a total of 894,266 structures were sprayed as part of the indoor residual spraying campaign. Dr. Otiono highlighted the critical role of such interventions in reducing malaria transmission rates and preventing the spread of the disease.

The rise in malaria cases reveals the need for collaborative efforts between government agencies, healthcare providers, and communities to combat the disease effectively. Public health officials continue to advocate for increased awareness, early diagnosis, and prompt treatment of malaria to mitigate its impact on communities.

As Zambia intensifies its efforts to address the malaria burden, it remains imperative for individuals to adhere to preventive measures such as the use of insecticide-treated bed nets, indoor residual spraying, and seeking timely medical care in case of malaria symptoms.

The National Malaria Centre reaffirms its commitment to working tirelessly to combat malaria and protect the health and well-being of all Zambians.

Government Launches “360 Ulimi Okwana” Campaign to Mechanize Small-Holder Farming

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Government Launches “360 Ulimi Okwana” Campaign to Mechanize Small-Holder Farming

The UPND government has initiated a comprehensive campaign named “360 Ulimi Okwana” aimed at mechanizing 500,000 hectares of small-holder farmers’ land by 2027, with the primary objective of enhancing food and nutrition security across the nation.

President Hakainde Hichilema announced the launch of the campaign, which will be overseen by the Ministry of Agriculture, emphasizing its role in bolstering agricultural productivity. President Hichilema outlined plans to establish up to six regional Mechanisation Centers of Excellence in collaboration with the private sector and cooperating partners, with one center slated for construction this year and three more by 2025.

Speaking at the launch of the national agricultural mechanization strategy in Lusaka, President Hichilema, represented by Vice President Mutale Nalumango, highlighted the expansion of the Sustainable Agriculture Facility Credit Window to facilitate access to finance for agricultural mechanization equipment, livestock, and fisheries.

Agriculture Minister Reuben Mtolo disclosed plans to construct a center of excellence in each province, equipped with a range of machinery to demonstrate their utilization. Additionally, six centers will be established in each district, where equipment will be available for hire by farmers.

European Union Ambassador to Zambia and COMESA, Karolina Stasiak, advised the Zambian government to implement innovative policy reforms in the agriculture sector to enhance productivity. Stasiak emphasized that mechanization would lower production costs and bolster food security.

Similarly, Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Deputy Director-General Beth Bechdol lauded the national agricultural mechanization strategy, noting its potential to transform the sector and ensure food security and nutrition. Bechdol’s sentiments were echoed by her representative, Suiz Filipini.

The launch of the “360 Ulimi Okwana” campaign signals a significant step towards modernizing Zambia’s agriculture sector, underscoring the government’s commitment to enhancing food security and empowering small-holder farmers.

Energy Regulation Board Lowers Fuel Prices Effective March 2024

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Energy Regulation Board Lowers Fuel Prices Effective March 2024

The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has announced a reduction in the prices of petrol, diesel, and Jet A1, effective from midnight tonight for the month of March 2024.

According to ERB Board Chairperson Reynolds Bowa, the pump price of petrol has been decreased to K31.12 ngwee from K34.19 ngwee, while diesel will now be sold at K28.78 ngwee from K32.15 ngwee. Similarly, Jet A1 will be priced at K28.23 ngwee, down from K32.69 ngwee.

Mr. Bowa attributed the price adjustments to the significant appreciation of the Kwacha during February 2024, which outweighed the increase in international oil prices. He noted that this led to a reduction in domestic wholesale and pump prices of petroleum products.

Mr. Bowa explained that the Kwacha’s appreciation could be attributed to the Bank of Zambia’s decision to hike interest rates and hold back more funds in reserve.

While the prices of petrol, diesel, and Jet A1 have been revised downward, Mr. Bowa clarified that the price of kerosene will remain unchanged for now. However, he added that this decision will be reviewed in line with the national supply and demand dynamics.

The adjustment in fuel prices is expected to bring relief to consumers and businesses across Zambia, reflecting the ERB’s commitment to ensuring fair and competitive pricing in the energy sector.

Former President Lungu Facing Consequences of His Past Actions- Nevers Mumba

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Former President Lungu Facing Consequences of His Past Actions- Nevers Mumba

I have noticed that any piece of advice to the Former President by myself is often met with a flood of Insults and rejection from his supporters and faithful. Well, I have a message for you.

Everything that President Lungu is going through today, He pre-ordered for himself when he was President through his many acts and actions. It appears to me, that the delivery time has come. This is not me being vengeful, but it is a principle of life. I stand on the word of God and I would encourage anyone that wishes to argue to not argue with me but the Bible. The Bible says You shall reap what you sow. This truth cannot change on Nevers Mumba. Neither can it change on ECL just because you love him more than you love HH. And neither can this principle change on HH because you love him more than Chilufya Tayali. IT IS A TALE AS OLD AS TIME.
If HH and UPND decided to do the same things, then their delivery time will also, equally come. This is a matter of time.
This is a general principle of life and The God we serve is no respecter of persons. He loves us all the same. God does not love ECL anymore than he loves HH. GOD loves Nevers Sekwila Mumba the same and he loves Higvie Hamududu and Chishimba Kambwili. We are all his children.
The big question is, Can President Lungu escape and cancel the orders? YES HE CAN. But I believe he cannot cancel the orders by being defiant, and most definately not by having his supporters continue to pour Insults on those of us that choose to respectfully advise him. He can only do that by repenting before God and by simply saying to those he injured, I am SORRY, I WAS WRONG. For President Lungu to make the demands he is making, without as much as an apology is really arrogance of the highest order.
There are those who believe that as Pastor, I must not talk about the injustices of yesterday. They also believe that as a Servant of God, I must always take a sort of weakened middle ground in an effort to reconcile the two opposing forces and that I cannot take a side. I dont agree with this. I believe my job os always to stay on the side of justice and on the side of correction. As a matter of fact, the job of all Pastors is to highlight the wrongs of yesterday in order to trigger the spirit of repentance. Without repentance, this cycle of human abuse shall not end. You cannot cover up President Lungus record of human rights abuses with caderistic support and Insults upon thise that remind you. Only repentance covers a multitude of sin.
I will keep reminding the nation until those of us responsible for injuring others say, SORRY.
Let those who love the truth learn something from this, apply it in their lives, and learn to treat those whom God has placed under them a little better. There is a God in heaven who sees through all, and watches over all.
And for those who choose to only see negativity in our advise, and those that only draw coldness from our humility in counsel, those who only know how to respond with Insults, this is also your time. You can go ahead too. It is only God who will Judge You…

Dr.Nevers Mumba
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President Hichilema Declares Drought As A National Disaster and Emergency

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President Hichilema Declares Drought As A National Disaster and Emergency

President Hakainde Hichilema has declared the prolonged dry spells in the country as a National Disaster and Emergency.
Speaking when he addressed the Nation on the impact of El Nino weather phenomenon at State House today, President Hichilema said the declaration is in accordance with the disaster management act number 13 of 2010, supported by other relevant legislations.

“Today, with a heavy heart, we address you, as our beloved country faces a severe drought, the worst of its kind, caused by the El Niño weather conditions in the 2023/2024 rain season and influenced by the climate change phenomenon,” President Hichilema remarked.

The President noted that the drought has devastating consequences on many critical sectors such as agriculture, water availability and energy supply, risking national food security and livelihoods of millions of Zambians.
“At national level the estimated planted area for maize is 2.2 million hectares and of this, approximately 1 million hectares has been destroyed.

“The dry spell is projected to continue, even into the month of march 2024, affecting over 1 million of our farming households,” the President said.

The Head of State stated that the drought is anticipated to adversely affect the energy sector that is expected to have a deficit of around 430 megawatts of electricity, potentially reaching more than 520 megawatts by December 2024.

President Hichilema has since announced that in view of the declaration of the drought as a national disaster and emergency, the government will undertake both short term and long term measures to stabilise the expected food insecurity.

Among the short term and long term measures announced by the President include channelling more resources towards humanitarian relief purposes to importing in order to ensure that affected citizens do not go hungry, importing additional electricity and rationing energy use as well as promoting alternative energy sources.

Others are mobilisation of farmers across the country to embark on planting early and winter maize through various forms of irrigation.

The President also announced that as a long term measure, the government will focus on enhancing water harvesting mechanisms to enable precision and other irrigation development so as to stimulate agricultural production.

President Hichilema has since indicated that the government will realign the 2024 national budget to achieve the targeted measures.

Meanwhile, the President directed Zambia’s defence forces to expand irrigation schemes as a way to increase food production.

“We will work with all farmers, farming input suppliers, grain traders, millers, academics, professionals, regulators, church, civil society, unions, traditional leaders, political parties and others,” President Hichilema said.
The destruction caused by the prolonged dry spell has severely affected 84 districts in Lusaka, Central, Copperbelt, Eastern, North-Western, Western and Southern Provinces.

FAZ Congratulates Copper Queens

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FAZ Congratulates Copper Queens

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) extended heartfelt congratulations to the Copper Queens, for their remarkable achievement in qualifying for the final round of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

FAZ President Andrew Kamanga commended the Copper Queens for their exceptional performance, which saw them triumph over Ghana with a 4-3 aggregate score. This victory solidifies Zambia’s position as a dominant force in African women’s football and brings them one step closer to securing back-to-back Olympic qualifications.

Kamanga expressed pride in the Copper Queens’ continued success, emphasizing FAZ’s unwavering support for the team. He applauded their resilience and determination, recognizing the significance of their achievement in advancing to the final qualification round.

“The Copper Queens have once again showcased their prowess on the field, and we are immensely proud of their accomplishments,” stated Kamanga. “This qualification is a testament to their hard work and dedication, and we stand behind them as they prepare for the next round of qualifiers.”

Kamanga also extended gratitude to the passionate fans who filled the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium to support the Copper Queens during their crucial match against Ghana. He acknowledged the invaluable contribution of fans in motivating the team and urged for continued support in the upcoming matches.

“While celebrating this momentous achievement, we must also remain vigilant against any negative elements that seek to disrupt the harmony of our football matches,” Kamanga cautioned. “Zambia has a reputation for hospitality, and it is imperative that we uphold this reputation by fostering a welcoming and respectful atmosphere at all our football events.”

Zambia’s journey to the Paris 2024 Olympics will see them face Morocco in the final round of qualifiers. With their impressive performance against Ghana, the Copper Queens are poised to continue their pursuit of Olympic glory and make their mark on the global stage.

The FAZ extends its best wishes to the Copper Queens as they prepare for the upcoming challenges and reaffirms its commitment to supporting their quest for Olympic qualification.

Issued by Sydney Mungala,
Communications Manager, Football Association of Zambia

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