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OCIDA hijacked:Disowns letter by Archibishop Mpundu and calls for his resignation

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OCIDA hijacked:Disowns letter by Archibishop Mpundu and calls for his resignation


OCIDA calls on Archbishop Telephore Mpundu to resign

Our Civic Duty Association OCIDA has disowned the letter written under the guise of Emeritus Archbishop Telesphore Mpundu calling on the US Government to impose sanctions on Zambian Government Officials.Leslie Mbula, an OCIDA trustee, stated that the organization has disowned the letter written under Mpundu’s name and expressed disappointment in the misuse of his reputation. Mbula also revealed that OCIDA has formally requested Mpundu to consider retiring from his leadership position within the organization, signaling a potential shift in leadership amid growing concerns over OCIDA’s direction.

Members and supporters of Our Civic Duty Association (OCIDA) have voiced their concerns over the alleged hijacking of the organization by Brebner Changala, prompting calls for his departure from the association. Additionally, they have urged Archbishop Telesphore Mpundu to consider retiring from his leadership role within OCIDA, stating that it is time for new leadership to take the reins.

Addressing the press in Lusaka on Thursday morning, OCIDA members expressed their dissatisfaction with Changala’s recent actions, which they claimed were not in line with the organization’s mission. They accused Changala of hijacking OCIDA and issuing statements without the consent of the members or the organization’s trustees, who are legally responsible for its oversight.

“In the last few months, statements have been issued in the name of OCIDA without the agreement of the association or the sanction of the trustees,” the members stated. “We are particularly concerned about a letter written to the American Embassy under the guise of Archbishop Mpundu, urging the US Government to impose sanctions on Zambian Government officials. This is not the stance of OCIDA.”

The members emphasized the importance of maintaining order within the organization for effective operations and expressed their disappointment in Changala’s failure to adhere to OCIDA’s principles. As a result, they called for his removal from the association, citing his actions as untenable.

Meanwhile, OCIDA members also called on the Catholic Church to safeguard the name and integrity of Emeritus Archbishop Mpundu from exploitation by opportunistic individuals. They expressed concern over the misuse of Mpundu’s name for selfish political purposes and emphasized that OCIDA’s primary objective is the promotion of good governance and economic management, without aligning with any particular political stance.

Below is the Letter sent to US Ambassador

Sanction Against President Hichilema And His Group undermining Democracy

Mr Michael Gonzales
United States Ambassador to Zambia
P. O. Box 320065
Lusaka, Zambia

8 March 2024

Dear Ambassador,

RE: Petition for the United States Government to impose financial sanctions, visa restrictions, and travel bans against top Zambian officials undermining democratic rights in Zambia

Refer to the above captioned subject.

Formed in June 2020, Our Civic Duty Association (OCIDA) is a registered civil society organisation in Zambia working to advance democracy, good governance, and human rights. It is made up of senior citizens whose only aspiration is to advance the public good.

We, in OCIDA, are deeply alarmed by the continued abuse institutions of governance and the erosion of democracy in Zambia today under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema and his ruling United Party for National Development (UPND). Of particular concern are the violations of democratic rights such as the right to public assembly, free speech, freedom of association, and the right to a speedy trial. Also worrying is the continued abuse of state institutions like the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Independent Broadcasting Authority, the Zambia Police Service, the National Assembly of Zambia, and the Judiciary.

On several occasions, OCIDA and other organisations such as the Zambian Conference of Catholic Bishops, the Law Association of Zambia and Chapter One Foundation have called on the Zambian Government to respect and enable the expression of these fundamental democratic rights. Our combined calls have fallen on deaf ears. What we have instead witnessed over the last several months are further restrictions on these rights. Public rallies by opposition parties continue to be banned by the Zambia Police Service, the Judiciary continues to engage in what appears to be wilful delay of the resolution of urgent political matters affecting the main opposition party, the Executive arm of government continues to interfere in the operations of other institutions, the leadership of the national assembly continues to undermine democracy in parliament, critics of the government continue to face intimidation and threats from state institutions and public officials, and leaders of the opposition continue to face arrest from the police based on what appears to be politically motivated charges. This is not the Zambia we want. This is the Zambia we rejected in August 2021.

In view of the continued abuse of governance institutions and the violations of democratic rights in Zambia, OCIDA calls on the United States Government to impose financial sanctions, visa restrictions, and travel bans against the below-named officials of the Government of the Republic of Zambia whose conduct has aided this continued suppression of democracy in Zambia. We make our call in the wake of the recent decision by the US Government, as part of its democracy-centred foreign policy, to impose similar sanctions on members of the Government of Zimbabwe who are at the forefront of restricting democratic rights, tolerating corruption, and abusing governance institutions. It in this light that we petition the administration of President Joe Biden, through the US Embassy in Zambia, to impose sanctions on the following officials of the Zambian Government:

1. Police Inspector General Graphel Musamba

Since his appointment as Inspector General of Police in April 2023, Mr Musamba has presided over the prohibition of opposition party meetings. Not a single public rally called by opposition parties has been sanctioned under his command. Mr Musamba has cited unspecified security concerns and inadequate manpower as justifications for this continued violation of the right to public assembly, even in instances where opposition parties have offered to provide their own security. It is impossible for multiparty democracy to be seen as a legitimate political system of government if political parties, created by the Constitution of Zambia, are not allowed to freely meet their members and conduct their activities.

In a truly functioning democracy, citizens are and must be free to exercise the right to peaceful assembly at any time they wish, including outside the elections. The job of the police service is to facilitate the enjoyment of this right, not to curtail it. Mr Musamba’s continued violation of the right to peaceful assembly represents a threat to national peace and stability, a danger to the survival of Zambia’s democracy, and a blatant defilement of the Constitution of Zambia, which mandates the police to protect and defend human rights and democracy. As Elias Chipimo noted in April 1980 when criticising the restrictions on political and civil rights under then President Kenneth Kaunda, the multi-party system is “the surest way of avoiding coups and eliminating the disgraceful tendency of presidents ending up with bullets in their heads.” Alarmingly, the current Inspector General of Police has proved to be an apostle of state-sponsored lawlessness as he has been in the forefront of not only breaking rather than enforcing the law but also undermining the very multiparty character of the Republic.

2. Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu

Mr Musamba’s efforts to undermine democratic rights in Zambia have been aided by the conduct of his superior, the Minister of Home Affairs and Infernal Security Mr Jack Mwiimbu. Under Mr Mwiimbu’s leadership, the Zambia Police Service has been turned into a private militia of the ruling party. As well as supporting the police’s continued refusal to sanction meetings organised by opposition parties, Mr Mwiimbu has also presided over the numerous arrests of nearly all opposition party leaders in Zambia, except those aligned to the ruling party, on frivolous charges. All these developments have occurred whilst the minister and his police officials continue to ignore the offences committed by members of the ruling party and the government, even when the same are formally reported to the police by the victims. As a result, a two-tier policing system has been created under his command: one for members of the opposition and another for members of the ruling UPND.

In addition, governance institutions such as the Registrar of Societies have been repeatedly suffered abuse from Mr Mwiimbu’s ministry. For instance, a former Registrar of Societies who refused to carry out unlawful changes to the leadership of the main opposition party – changes that were aimed at instigating factional divisions in the main opposition Patriotic Front party – was unceremoniously hounded out of office and replaced with a malleable official who has not only obeyed the illegal commands but also paved the way for the installation of a pliant leadership in the main opposition party.

Mr Mwimbu is also ultimately responsible for the police’s ongoing efforts to frustrate the registration of an umbrella alliance of opposition parties, namely the United Kwacha Alliance. Citizens have the right to associate with a political formation of their choice, and the job of the Ministry of Home Affairs is to enable the enjoyment of this right, not to undermine the freedom of association. Democracy is at great risk of collapsing when democratic rights like the freedom of association are restricted. And when people lose trust in the capacity of formal institutions to represent them, they are likely to resort to democratic means of expressing their discontent – and indeed of changing governments.

3. Speaker of the National Assembly Nellie Mutti

A known supporter of the ruling UPND, the Speaker of the National Assembly has been at the forefront of undermining democracy in parliament. Ms Nellie Mutti has presided over unconstitutional changes to the leadership of the official opposition in parliament (consequently trampling on the rule of law by overlooking matters that are before Court over the same issue), been quick to suspend opposition lawmakers at will, especially those who question her judgement, and has, on several occasions, curtailed opposition and independent MPs from debating freely in the House, especially on matters that relate to criticism of the Executive.

This demonstrated partiality by Speaker Mutti harms Zambia’s constitutional democracy in that it violates the principle of separation of powers and the right of parliament to scrutinise the activities of the Executive as part of promoting accountability. Multiparty democracy is strengthened when all three arms of government carry out their activities in a manner that enhances or promotes checks and balances. Ms Mutti has proved, time and time again, to be a mere appendage of the Executive, committed to advancing the interests of the ruling party rather than the greater cause of democracy. Her continued adverse actions risk undermining public trust in the capacity of parliament to truly be a people’s House and ultimately in the very integrity of the democratic system.

4. Chief Justice Mumba Malila

When Mr Mumba Malila was appointed Chief Justice, OCIDA was among the many Zambians and organisations that then and subsequently commended his appointment. Our hope that Mr Malila would provide leadership to this vital state institution, without whom democracy cannot flourish, was based on his impressive track record of defending fundamental freedoms and human rights not only in Zambia but also in international organisations where he had worked.

Unfortunately, in recent years, Chief Justice Malila has proved to be a great disappointment. Our faith in his leadership has since decreased considerably. Not only has he lamentably failed to provide effective leadership in ensuring speedy trial for politically sensitive cases, especially those whose outcome have a significant bearing on the state and direction of Zambia’s democracy; he has also, in an unprecedented move, deployed the Judiciary to intimidate and attack, through press statements, ordinary citizens who dare to criticise the institution’s performance under his watch. The capture of Zambia’s main opposition party by the executive branch of government has been enabled by the conduct of the judiciary under Mr Malila’s watch. Judges handling the matters have sat on them while the Chief Justice continues to criss-cross the world, giving speeches to unsuspecting audiences, some of them emphasising the importance of speedy trial and judicial independence.

Mr Malila’s proximity to President Hichilema – demonstrated in regular shared public spaces and the Chief Justice’s penchant of inviting the head of the Executive to address judicial meetings – has also raised public eyebrows about the extent of judicial independence under his watch. These fears have been aided by several instances where announcements that must come from the Judiciary are first made by the President. A clear example is how the President recently announced to the public a Statutory Instrument that was yet to be signed by the Chief Justice. How did the President know about it? The only hypothesis is that the President could have been the author.

5. The Director of Public Prosecutions Gilbert Phiri

The Director of Public Prosecutions Gilbert Phiri is a former personal lawyer of President Hichilema. Any hopes that Mr Phiri would rise above these personal historic ties to conduct the affairs of his office in an impartial manner were extinguished long ago. Instead of defending public interest and the integrity of the legal system, Mr Phiri has been in the forefront of refusing to sanction the prosecution of government and ruling party officials whilst doing the opposite for members of the opposition. Not only has his conduct undermined the integrity of the legal system; it also represents a threat to the legitimacy of the multiparty political system. DPP Phiri has clearly shown that he is working with the President on many cases to undermine democracy and human rights.

6. Electoral Commission of Zambia Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis

Ms Mwangala Zaloumis is another official with known ties to the ruling UPND. Appointed to the role by President Hichilema, she has since led the Electoral Commission of Zambia in disfranchising citizens by way of excluding candidates of the main opposition party from taking part in elections to the benefit of the UPND. Complaints from opposition parties about the abuse of state resources by government officials during by-elections have also been ignored by Ms Zaloumis. The multiparty system rests on having an independent electoral commission that enjoys public trust and is impartial in its conduct. The current leadership of the Electoral Commission of Zambia is far from these requisites and represents a danger to peace, stability, and the survival of democracy in the country.

7. President Hakainde Hichilema

If there is one person who deserves sanctions for undermining democracy and democratic rights in Zambia, it is President Hichilema. Not only is he the one responsible for the appointment of other democracy-threatening officials like Mr Musamba, Mr Mwiimbu, Ms, Mutti, Mr Malila, Ms Zaloumis, and Mr Phiri; President Mr Hichilema has also aided their conduct by neglecting to reprimand or sanction them for undermining civil and political rights. The Police, for example, has been used as a tool to suppress political opponents or arrest government critics. In fact, Mr Hichilema has praised Mr Musamba’s harrowing performance, publicly stating that he wished he had resurrected the latter from retirement much earlier.

The President of Zambia as Head of State and Government must be a fountain of justice and equity and presidential functions must be performed with dignity and transparency. The President must be above partisan considerations when treating citizens whether in opposition or in support of government. All these principles are provided for in the Constitution of Zambia under which he took the Oath of Office. Unfortunately, President Hichilema has not lived true to these ideals. His administration has divided the country on ethnic-regional lines. Key Government positions are now a preserve of members of his ethnicity and adjacent tribes in Western, Northwestern, and Central provinces. We are witnessing a purge in government and State-Owned Enterprise of Zambians who hail from the Northern or Eastern provinces based on the belief that they are supporters of the main opposition party. In recent months, civil servants hailing from these provinces have been displaced from their positions and replaced with people who come from Southern and Western Zambia. This state-sponsored polarisation has created tension in the country and undermined nation building and stability. The spirit of One Zambia One Nation is now but an illusion.

President Hichilema has also ignored growing incidents of corruption in his administration, including among members of his oner circle. Not only has he failed to publish his assets and declarations as a way of showing leadership; he has further ignored calls to do so from several people including Zambians and non-Zambians such as yourself, Ambassador. This is not the character of a man who is committed to fighting corruption.

Having highlighted how the conduct of the above officials continue to undermine democracy in Zambia, we reiterate our call that targeted sanctions against these specific individuals be imposed on them to serve as a deterrent. We believe that such a move is an imperative at this juncture, if the United States is to be perceived as fair and consistent in its application of foreign policy values, central of which is democracy promotion and the sanctioning of those who undermine it. Although many people think the current President of Zambia is a darling of the United States, we believe that the interests of the two nations are by far larger than the interest of an individual leader – especially when that leader is in the forefront of undermining democracy and abusing institutions of governance.

We look forward to your action-oriented response.

Yours faithfully,

Emeritus Archbishop Telesphore G. Mpundu
Chairman, OCIDA

Zambia Accelerates Economic Growth with Focus on Enhanced Trade and Infrastructure

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Zambia Accelerates Economic Growth with Focus on Enhanced Trade and Infrastructure
Unlocking Zambia's Economic Potential through Enhanced Input , Export and Border Process Efficiencies
Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister, Jack Mwiimbu, Minister of Finance and National Planning, Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Minister, Charles Milupi and Health Minister Sylvia Masebo at a town hall meeting in Lusaka

Zambia has embarked on a concerted effort to boost trade efficiency and elevate infrastructure standards, initiating a series of strategic measures aimed at unlocking the country’s economic potential. Spearheaded by various ministries and endorsed at a town hall meeting in Lusaka, this move seeks to address the challenges hindering trade, promote cross-border cooperation, and bolster economic growth.

Trade Facilitation and Infrastructure Development

Minister of Finance and National Planning, Situmbeko Musokotwane, underscored the detrimental impact of delays at entry points on trade and economic development. Recognizing the urgency of the matter, he emphasized the need to remove bottlenecks at border posts to accelerate trade processes. The government, through rigorous oversight and strategic investments, is committed to upgrading infrastructure, including roads and parking spaces at border posts, to enhance trade efficiency.

Furthermore, President Hakainde Hichilema’s upcoming meeting with Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi in Livingstone aims to finalize the establishment of the Kazungula Border Authority. This initiative is poised to foster trade between the two countries and beyond, signifying a significant step towards regional cooperation and economic integration.

Health and Safety Measures

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and health of citizens at border posts. Stricter regulations and comprehensive screenings of goods entering the country are prioritized to safeguard public health. Additionally, measures are underway to engage with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to protect Zambian truckers when entering the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Private Sector and Stakeholder Perspectives

Private sector stakeholders voiced their concerns regarding the impact of police checkpoints on major highways, citing corruption and delays in transit time for goods. Ashu Sagar, President of the Zambia Association of Manufacturers, advocated for the removal of checkpoints to eliminate corruption and facilitate smoother business operations. Similarly, Sokwani Chilembo, Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Mines, emphasized the need for efficient border management to ensure accountability in trade activities.

Conclusion

As Zambia strives to enhance its trade ecosystem and streamline border processes, collaborative efforts between government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and regional partners are paramount. By prioritizing trade facilitation, infrastructure development, and stringent safety measures, Zambia aims to create an enabling environment for economic growth and prosperity. The collective commitment to these initiatives reflects a proactive approach towards realizing Zambia’s vast economic potential and fostering sustainable development.

USAID spends over 9 million Kwacha on food security programmes in Zambia.

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USAID spends over 9 million Kwacha on food security programmes in Zambia.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has spent over 9 million United States Dollars to improve food security in the country.

USAID Deputy assistant administrator Ann Vaughan says through the USAID Africa Trade and Investment, USAID Zambia is working hand-in-hand with the regional African Fertilizer Agribusiness Partnership to propel the country’s agricultural markets and drive economic transformation.

ZANIS reports that Ms Vaughan said this when she led a team from the USAID who were touring fields in Mpongwe District on the Copperbelt to see how farmers are benefiting from the Food Security Programme.

She noted that the USAID government is determined to improve for food security in Zambia and over 1.5 million Zambian participated in the food security programme.

Ms Vaughan added that USAID Accelerated Innovation Delivery Initiative is working in collaboration with other partners in conducting various activities such as improved crop variety demonstrations.

She said that the main purpose of a demonstration farm is that farmers and scientists can see the difference in productivity between different seed varieties and agricultural practices when they are growing side-by-side.

“USAID has a longstanding and continuing commitment to enhance local research and the capacity of local market systems for key staple crops,” she said.

Ms Vaughan said the team was also checking on agro business partners who are helping to sell fertilizer to farmers at a fair price.

She added that the accelerate last-mile delivery project, is a program running in three countries which include Malawi, Uganda, Zambia, and about 50 million USD has been spent on the project.

And, African Fertilizer and Agribusiness Partnership (AFAP) Country Manger Gene Phiri said the partnership with the USAID involves maintaining a register of the farmers who purchased fertilizer through the rebate programme.

Mr Phiri said the programme will enable Zambian small and medium-sized agro-dealers to deliver the fertilizer at a fair price to farmers

Mr Phiri said previously the farmers used to buy the bag of fertilizer at a cost of 970 Kwacha but with the on-going project farmers can now buy a bag of fertilizer at 800 Kwacha.

Meabwhile, Fostina Chumbo one of the beneficiaries of the USAID project said she is happy that through the demonstrations she will be able to harvest good crops.

Ms Chumbo added that she planted early and the seedlings she used proved to be resistant drought.

Cancer center construction receives a $25 million injection from the government for nuclear facilities

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Cancer center construction receives a $25 million injection from the government for nuclear facilities
Combating cancer related deaths,Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati,Permanent Secretary for Donor Coordination in the Ministry of Health, George Sinyangwe andChristabel Reinke, Chairperson of the Radiation Protection Board at a joint press briefing

Cancer-related fatalities were targeted for reduction with the commencement of the construction of a nuclear and Cancer Center in Ndola, Zambia. Minister of Technology and Science, Felix Mutati, highlighted Zambia’s significant progress in utilizing technologies and nuclear science in the health sector. He disclosed that the government allocated $25 million towards the construction of the center, aimed at combating cancer-related deaths.

Government’s efforts to strengthen protection against the effects of cancer through the application of nuclear medicine and radiation have taken a significant step forward with the enactment of new regulations and the allocation of funds for a specialized center. Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati, speaking at a joint press briefing with the Ministry of Health and the Radiation Protection Authority (IPA), announced the implementation of two Statutory Instruments (SIs): the Ionising Radiation Protection (Nuclear Medicine) Regulations 2024 and the Ionising Radiation Protection (Radiotherapy) Regulations 2024. These regulations aim to enhance radiation protection management, safety, and security in the country’s healthcare system.

Mutati disclosed that the government has invested over $25 million in the construction of a nuclear and Cancer Center in Ndola, which will play a crucial role in managing the treatment of the increasing number of cancer patients. The center is part of a broader strategy to minimize cancer-related mortality rates and improve access to quality healthcare services.

The Minister emphasized the importance of compliance with safety standards and the need for rigorous oversight to ensure patient safety and minimize treatment costs. He urged the media to raise awareness about the significance of these regulations among the public.

Permanent Secretary for Donor Coordination in the Ministry of Health, George Sinyangwe, underscored the advancements in nuclear medicine and radiotherapy, emphasizing their transformative impact on the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions. Sinyangwe stressed the importance of maintaining the highest standards of safety and protection when using ionizing radiation, particularly in healthcare settings.

Christabel Reinke, Chairperson of the Radiation Protection Board, expressed gratitude to the government for its commitment to upholding the highest standards of radiation safety and protection in the country’s health system. She commended the government’s support for initiatives aimed at safeguarding the health and well-being of citizens, employees, and the environment.

These developments mark a significant milestone in Zambia’s efforts to combat cancer and other diseases caused by radiation while ensuring the safety and security of its healthcare infrastructure.

University of Zambia Vehemently Denies Allegations of Inferior Degrees, Affirms Academic Excellence

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University of Zambia Vehemently Denies Allegations of Inferior Degrees, Affirms Academic Excellence
University of Zambia
University of Zambia

University of Zambia (UNZA) Acting Head of Communication and Marketing, Damaseke Chibale, has vehemently refuted allegations suggesting that the university produces inferior degrees, labeling them as malicious. Mr. Chibale’s statement comes in response to online claims questioning the quality of education provided by UNZA.

In an interview with ZNBC News, Mr. Chibale highlighted UNZA’s prestigious recognition as one of the best universities according to the Times Education Sub-Saharan Africa University rankings. He emphasized that such accolades underscore UNZA’s commitment to academic excellence and its status as a reputable institution.

Mr. Chibale urged stakeholders and the public to disregard the unfounded allegations circulating online, emphasizing that they are aimed at undermining the credibility of UNZA. He reiterated the university’s dedication to upholding academic integrity and ensuring the delivery of high-quality education to its students.

As UNZA continues its mission to provide outstanding educational opportunities, Mr. Chibale reaffirmed the university’s unwavering commitment to maintaining its esteemed reputation and fostering a conducive learning environment for all its stakeholders.

The University of Zambia was ranked 6th best university in Africa from 156 universities in 20 countries by the Times Higher Education World University Rankings.At the global level, UNZA was ranked in the 501-600 position out of 1,799 participating universities.

The Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023 include 1,799 universities across 104 countries and regions, making them the largest and most diverse university rankings to date.

The table is based on 13 carefully calibrated performance indicators that measure an institution’s performance across four areas: teaching, research, knowledge transfer and international outlook.

Recently the United Kingdom Home Office made a decision to exclude University of Zambia (UNZA) graduates from the High Potential Individuals (HPI) visa program. This decision stemed from concerns regarding the perceived inferiority of degrees awarded by UNZA.

The HPI visa program is a UK initiative aimed at attracting “highly skilled graduates” from international universities outside of the UK. The program seeks to invite talented individuals to contribute their expertise to various sectors within the UK economy, with a particular focus on areas such as science and technology.

According to assessments conducted by the UK-NARIC (National Academic Recognition Information Centre), the comparability of UNZA degrees to British academic standards raises doubts. For instance, the evaluation indicates that a bachelor’s degree in humanities from UNZA is considered equivalent to the British two-year Higher National Diploma. Similarly, bachelor’s degrees in medicine, engineering, and law from UNZA are deemed comparable to the three-year British Bachelor (Ordinary) Degree standard.

This decision has sparked concerns and debates within both academic and diplomatic circles. It has raised questions about the recognition and value of degrees obtained from UNZA, one of Zambia’s leading academic institutions. Critics argue that such exclusions could undermine the reputation and opportunities for UNZA graduates seeking to pursue further studies or employment abroad.

The exclusion of UNZA graduates from the HPI visa program underscores the importance of maintaining high academic standards and ensuring international recognition of qualifications. It also highlights the need for ongoing efforts to enhance the quality and competitiveness of education provided by institutions like UNZA.

In response to this development, stakeholders including UNZA officials, government representatives, and academic bodies are likely to engage in dialogue with the UK authorities to address concerns and explore potential avenues for resolving the issue. These discussions may involve efforts to clarify misconceptions about UNZA degrees, provide additional evidence of academic rigor and quality assurance measures, and explore possibilities for mutual recognition agreements between educational institutions in Zambia and the UK.

Overall, the exclusion of UNZA graduates from the HPI visa program underscores the complexities and challenges associated with international recognition of academic qualifications. It serves as a reminder of the importance of continuous improvement and collaboration in the pursuit of academic excellence and global recognition.

Drought Crisis: President Hichilema Unveils Comprehensive Cost-Cutting Measures

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Drought Crisis: President Hichilema Unveils Comprehensive Cost-Cutting Measures
President Hichilema announces cost cutting measures to mitigate impact of the drought
President Hichilema

Amid the prevailing drought crisis, President Hakainde Hichilema has announced a series of comprehensive cost-cutting measures in response to the pressing challenges. These initiatives are aimed at addressing immediate needs and ensuring sustainable resource allocation across various sectors of the government. They form part of the administration’s concerted efforts to realign the 2024 National Budget, effectively channeling resources towards mitigating the adverse impact of the drought and safeguarding food security for the public.

President Hichilema’s announcement marks a proactive approach to fiscal management and crisis response, emphasizing the prudent utilization of financial resources to address urgent priorities while maintaining a focus on long-term sustainability and equitable distribution.

During his address at State House, President Hichilema reiterated the imperative of saving financial resources by reducing unnecessary expenditures on government travel and workshops. He emphasized the need for strict budgetary discipline across all branches of the public service, including Parliament, the judiciary, and quasi-governmental institutions. By curbing non-essential trips and workshops, the government aims to generate substantial savings that can be redirected towards critical initiatives aimed at addressing food scarcity and supporting vulnerable communities affected by the drought.

Furthermore, President Hichilema announced plans to introduce constitutional amendments to enhance representation and inclusivity in governance structures. These proposed changes include features such as proportional representation, with the goal of bolstering the participation of women and people living with disabilities in Parliament and Local Councils. By fostering greater diversity in decision-making bodies, the government seeks to ensure that all segments of society are adequately represented and their voices heard in the policymaking process.

The president’s commitment to promoting gender equality and empowering women in leadership roles was underscored during the ceremony at State House, where he conferred the prestigious status of State Counsel upon Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti and four other distinguished lawyers. Recognizing the invaluable contributions of women to the nation’s progress, President Hichilema reiterated his administration’s dedication to creating an enabling environment for women to thrive and excel in various spheres of public service.

In addition to these structural reforms, President Hichilema issued directives to law enforcement agencies, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law while ensuring fairness and transparency in legal proceedings. He urged police and investigative bodies to conduct thorough and impartial investigations before effecting arrests, reaffirming the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and liberties of all citizens.

As Zambia navigates through the challenges posed by the drought crisis, President Hichilema’s proactive measures reflect a holistic approach to crisis management, encompassing fiscal responsibility, governance reform, and social inclusivity. By prioritizing the efficient allocation of resources and fostering a culture of accountability and transparency, the government aims to mitigate the impact of the drought and build resilience against future crises, ensuring the well-being and prosperity of all citizens for generations to come.

Earlier this month President Hakainde Hichilema 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 President Hichilema said the declaration was in accordance with the disaster management act number 13 of 2010, supported by other relevant legislations.

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 Head of State stated that the drought was 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 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 included 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 were 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 would focus on enhancing water harvesting mechanisms to enable precision and other irrigation development so as to stimulate agricultural production.

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

President also 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.

Victoire Ingabire: Rwandan opposition leader barred from election

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Victoire Ingabire: Rwandan opposition leader barred from election
Victoire Ingabire, a prominent opposition leader in Rwanda. Courtesy AFP
Victoire Ingabire, a prominent opposition leader in Rwanda. Courtesy AFP

Victoire Ingabire, a prominent opposition figure, has had her efforts to lift a ban on her running in July’s presidential election blocked by a court in Rwanda.

She was freed in 2018 after spending eight years in prison for threatening state security and “belittling” the 1994 genocide.

In Rwanda, people who have been jailed for more than six months are barred from running in elections.

Ms Victoire Ingabire said the court’s ruling was politicised.

“The refusal of my rehabilitation is not merely a personal attack but is emblematic of the broader issues facing our nation, issues that human rights organisations and development partners of Rwanda have long criticised,” Ms Ingabire said in a statement released on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Outside court in the capital, Kigali, the 55-year-old politician said: “I don’t agree with what the judge said, and unfortunately you can’t appeal before two years.

“We are still far from a law-abiding country.”

Ms Victoire Ingabire is an outspoken critic of President Paul Kagame, who has been the dominant force in the country for three decades.

He secured more than 90% of the votes in presidential elections in 2003, 2010 and 2017 – and changes to constitution mean he could potentially stay in power for another 10 years.

The 66-year-old president has faced criticism from rights groups, which have accused him of cracking down on the opposition.

But Mr Kagame has in the past fiercely defended Rwanda’s record on human rights, saying his country respects political freedoms.

There is currently only one challenger to the president in July’s election in the shape of the Green Party’s Frank Habineza, the AFP news agency reports.

He won 0.45% of the vote in 2017.

In 2010, Ms Victoire Ingabire returned from exile in the Netherlands to take part in that year’s presidential election.

But she was arrested, prevented from standing and later sentenced to 15 years in prison. After she was pardoned in 2018, she went on to found the Dalfa-Umurinzi opposition party.

Ms Victoire Ingabire, a member of the Hutu ethnic group, had got into trouble for questioning why Rwanda’s official memorial to the 1994 genocide did not include any Hutus.

Most of the 800,000 people killed in the space of 100 days were ethnic Tutsis but Hutu moderates were also slaughtered by the Hutu extremists.

Mr Kagame’s Tutsi-dominated Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) rebel group – now a political party – put an end to the genocide.

Source:BBC

Lusaka Businessman Accused of Robbing Egyptian National of $5 Million at Airport

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Lusaka Businessman Accused of Robbing Egyptian National of $5 Million at Airport
Lusaka Businessman Shadrick Kasanda

Lusaka businessman Shadrick Kasanda has been alleged by the Zambia Police Service to have orchestrated the robbery of Egyptian national Adel Michael Botros, resulting in the theft of $5 million in a startling revelation.

The purported incident unfolded at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport in Lusaka on August 13, 2023, with Kasanda allegedly wielding a pistol during the robbery.

Deputy Inspector of the Airport Division, Arnold Kawangu, has outlined these allegations in an Affidavit – In Opposition submitted to the Lusaka High Court. The affidavit forms part of the legal response to Kasanda’s application for habeas corpus, a legal remedy seeking relief from unlawful detention.

Kawangu’s affidavit opposes Kasanda’s plea for habeas corpus, asserting that the businessman’s detention aligns with charges of aggravated robbery linked to the purported theft from the Egyptian national. The police officer has further indicated that Kasanda’s case file has been forwarded to the National Prosecutions Authority for review and potential directives on prosecution.

Lusaka businessman Kasanda’s recent legal move to seek habeas corpus intervention follows his contention of being unjustly detained on charges of aggravated robbery without being promptly presented before a court of law.

The charges stemmed from activities on August 13th, 2023, when eleven individuals, including Egyptian nationals and Zambians, were arrested and charged with espionage under Zambia’s State Security Act. This development followed their alleged involvement in a Gold Scam investigation led by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC). .

Among the arrested, a notable figure emerged: Robson Moonga, the Commanding Officer of the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) Police. Moonga, alongside five Zambian nationals—Shadreck Kasanda, Jim Belemu, Patrick Kawanu (a pilot), Oswald Diangamo, and Francis Mateyo—found themselves facing these grave accusations. Additionally, five Egyptian nationals, including one Michael Botros, were part of the group facing these charges.

During the DEC’s operation, a considerable amount of evidence was seized from an aircraft at the airport. This evidence included a staggering 602 pieces of suspected fake gold, collectively weighing 127.2 kilograms.

In addition to the gold, authorities reportedly discovered weapons on board, raising further concerns. The aircraft was also said to be stashed with a substantial sum of five million dollars in cash.

The state opted for a nolle prosequi in favor of five Egyptians and one Zambian implicated in the same alleged syndicate. The Egyptian nationals involved in this matter are Walid Botros, Mounir Awad, Mohamed Gooda, Yasser Abdelghafor, and Michael Botros, alongside Zambian chartered accountant Oswald Diangamo.

Lusaka businessman Shadrick Kasanda, one of the key suspects involved in the airport gold scam, was denied bail in another case where he faced charges related to the disposal of property believed to be proceeds of a crime. The decision to deny bail was handed down by the Lusaka High Court on the grounds that his release from detention could potentially prejudice the ongoing case.

In addition to the denial of bail based on the risk of prejudicing the case, the court also cited Mr. Kasanda’s involvement in an espionage case where the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) issued a Certificate of Denial of Bail.

The verdict to deny bail was delivered by a panel of three High Court Judges: Pixxie Yangailo, Ian Mabbolobbolo, and Vincent Siloka.

Mr. Kasanda had sought bail through his legal representatives, arguing that he was entitled to it because the charges against him in the proceeds of crime case were bailable. However, the state countered this argument by asserting that his bail application for the proceeds of crime matter was invalidated by the Certificate of Denial of Bail issued in connection with his espionage case.

This development added to the legal complications surrounding Mr. Kasanda, who has been embroiled in high-profile cases related to alleged criminal activities, including the notorious airport gold scam.

The unfolding legal battle surrounding Kasanda’s alleged involvement in the high-profile robbery underscores the gravity of the accusations leveled against him. As the legal proceedings advance, stakeholders await further developments to shed light on the intricacies of the case and determine the appropriate course of action.

State Counsels Sworn In by President Hichilema: 5 Esteemed Officials Take Oath of Office

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State Counsels Sworn In by President Hichilema: 5 Esteemed Officials Take Oath of Office
Newly sworn in State counsels and Senior government officials pose for a picture with President Hichilema at State House
Newly sworn in State counsels and Senior government officials pose for a picture with President Hichilema at State House

In a momentous occasion for Zambia’s commitment to justice and governance, President Hakainde Hichilema oversaw the swearing-in of State Counsels and Senior Government officials, marking a significant step towards upholding the rule of law and integrity in public service.

Among those sworn in as State Counsels were esteemed individuals such as Hon. Mrs. Nelly Butete Kashumba Mutti, Hon. Jacob Jack Mwiimbu, MP, Mrs. Frances Mwangala Ifunga Zaloumis, Mr. Arshad Abdulla Dudhia, and Mrs. Kondwa Emily Sakala Chibiya. The esteemed rank and dignity of State Counsel symbolises a profound commitment to public service as it transcends mere legal practice to embody the highest ideas of fairness, equity, and compassion.

President Hichilema urged the newly sworn-in State Counsels to serve as staunch guardians of the Constitution and defenders of democratic values, underscoring the pivotal role they play in upholding the nation’s legal framework.

In addition to the State Counsels, Ambassador Lazarous Kapambwe was sworn in as Special Envoy to the President, recognizing his exceptional service to the country over the decades as a career diplomat and therefore, well suited for the position of Special Envoy to the President.

Dr. Choolwe Beyani also took the oath as Chairperson of the Civil Service Commission, with a mandate to address critical issues affecting the performance and service delivery of civil servants.President Hichilema urged him to expeditiously address issues pertaining to appointments, promotions, and transfers of civil servants.

Ms. Beatrice Kiluya Mpanga assumed her role as Deputy Director-General of the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC), entrusted with enhancing the Commission’s efforts in combating money laundering and financial crimes. Furthermore, Father Joe Komakoma was sworn in as Commissioner of the Human Rights Commission, charged with advancing the promotion and protection of human rights in Zambia.

President Hichilema emphasized the importance of a just and fair society, urging the Human Rights Commission to collaborate closely with stakeholders to address human rights abuses and promote fundamental freedoms.

In a statement, President Hichilema congratulated all the newly sworn-in State Counsels and Senior Government officials, expressing confidence in their ability to serve the nation with distinction. He wished them success as they embark on their respective roles in advancing Zambia’s governance and legal landscape.

Meanwhile, President Hichilema called for constitutional amendments to enhance gender representation in decision-making positions, emphasizing the government’s commitment to gender equality and inclusivity. He also announced measures to reduce government expenditure, urging all branches of government to support initiatives aimed at prudent resource management.

The swearing-in ceremony represents a significant milestone in Zambia’s pursuit of justice, accountability, and good governance under President Hichilema’s leadership, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law.

ABSA Partners With Forestry Department and ZAFFICO To Address Adverse Impacts Of Climate Change

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ABSA Partners With Forestry Department and ZAFFICO To Address Adverse Impacts Of Climate Change
ABSA Managing Director Mizinga Melu, , Minister of Green Economy and Environment Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu MP and ZAFFICO Managing Director Mr. Mundia Mundia at the meida event

ABSA Bank has partnered with Forestry Department in the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment and the Zambia Forestry and Forest Industries Corporation (ZAFFICO) PLC to promote tree planting and address the impacts of climate change in Zambia.

During a media event to announce Absa Bank partnership between ZAFFICO and the Forestry Department in the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, Minister of Green Economy and Environment Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu MP said he was pleased to witness this partnership between Absa Bank and ZAFFICO towards provision of seedlings to promote tree planting in the country and between the bank and Forestry Department who shall work together, each according to the means to contribute, to address the impacts of climate change in Zambia.

The Honourable Minister said the Ministry is appreciative to Absa Bank Group in aligning its business strategy by being consistent, measured and balanced in climate mitigation strategies that speak to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS), the Paris Climate Agreement, National Development Plans and regional legislative frameworks.

He said similarly, ZAFFICO Limited which has an objective of establishing and managing industrial exotic forest plantations and agroforestry products so as to meet demand and maximize return on investment, has entered into a mutual agreement with Absa Bank to buy seedlings from ZAFFICO Limited at a subsidized price.

Hon. Nzovu said he was confident that this initiative will translate into encouraging more individuals from communities to plant trees.He said he is positive that the participation of stakeholders and local communities in the tree planting will help to improve forest productivity and enhance livelihoods and environmental sustainability.
ZAFFICO Managing Director Mr. Mundia Mundia said ZAFFICO is Zambia’s largest exotic forestry company managing 62,187 hectares of pine and eucalyptus plantations spread across the five provinces that is, Copperbelt, Luapula, Muchinga, Northern and north-western.

Mr. Mundia said the corporation is implementing forest expansion plans in order to increase its plantations size by 50,000 hectares in the next five years.

“To achieve this, ZAFFICO is investing USD50 million into forest expansion as well as value addition activities in line with our strategic focus and business diversification drive. The corporation’s focus towards forest expansion is not only a business drive but also, a commitment to mitigating the effects of climate change in the country,” he said.
Mr. Mundia said for the 2023/24 planting season, ZAFFICO planted 5.9 million seedlings covering a total of 2,816 hectares in its plantations.

He said to promote tree planting by individuals, communities and organisations in the country, the corporation provided 175,000 pine and eucalyptus seedlings.

Meanwhile, Absa Managing Director Ms. Mizinga Melu said the bank has so far planted 10,000 trees but have reached a stage where they need to accelerate the project.

“And that is why we announce a 3-year partnership where Absa will purchase seedlings from ZAFFICO and the Forestry Department over 3 years.These tree seedlings will be planted by the partners who are experts in reforestation,” said Ms. Melu.

“For this rain season, Absa has purchased 62,500 seedlings worth K250,000 from ZAFFICO and 30,000 seedlings worth K150,000 from Forestry Department. The total number of trees to be planted this rain season is over 80,000 by the 2 institutions.”

Mizinga Melu, Managing Director of ABSA, emphasized the bank’s unwavering commitment to this initiative. She highlighted how the project initially took root through partnerships with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) and the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in the Chongwe and Mumbwa areas. Now, with the inclusion of ZAFFICO and the Forestry Department, ABSA aims for even greater environmental restoration.

She underscored the critical role of reforestation in combatting the adverse effects of climate change, stressing the importance of community involvement. Ms. Melu urged every Zambian to embrace the simple yet impactful act of planting a tree annually, emphasizing the positive impact it can have on the environment.
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Outbreak of unknown eye infection in Mpulungu

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Outbreak of unknown eye infection in Mpulungu

Mpulungu district in Northern Province has recorded an outbreak of an unknown eye infection.

Mpulungu District Commissioner Gehard Sikazwe said the unknown eye infection was first noticed last month but is slowly increasing.

Speaking in an interview  Mr. Sikazwe noted that the Ministry of Health in the area has so far recorded 220 cases of the infections in both children and adults.

Mr Sikazwe added that the infection is mostly present in urban townships, stating that Mpulungu urban clinic has recorded the majority of the cases, with 178 recorded.

He said Mpulungu District Hospital has recorded 21 cases, Kaizya Clinic has 21, and Kasakalawe Rural Health Center has recorded 6 cases.

Mr Sikazwe said the infection is presenting symptoms of itching, swelling, and redness of the eyes.

He said the Ministry of Health has since started conducting investigations to establish the disease and its causes.

Mr. Sikazwe said the department of health has sent samples for culturing in order for them to determine if the infection is both viral and bacterial.

And Mr. Sikazwe has urged the Ministry of Health to continue with investigations and sensitize the public in order to fight the spread of the infection.

He observed that the infection is spreading at a very fast rate.

He also encouraged people to seek medical attention as soon as they present with the symptoms in order to stop the spread.

President Hichilema Calls On Youth To Contribute To National Development

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President Hichilema Calls On Youth To Contribute To National Development

President Hichilema joined the Zambian youth in celebrating this Year’s National Youth Day at David Kaunda Stadium in Chipata, Eastern Province.

The President said youths are the greatest asset Zambia has and that is the reason the government is doing everything possible to make an enabling environment for all our youths across the country.

President Hichilema’s message to the youth was:

“Take advantage of your youthfulness to succeed in life. You all have the potential to make it in various areas of life. All you need is to work hard and embrace discipline. Your government will continue creating more jobs even this year alongside other interventions aimed at youth empowerment.
Ma Youth, balimi banzanga, don’t get discouraged with the drought. We appreciate the efforts you had put in this farming season. Do not give up; resilience is what we need.
We will use the drought to turn it into an opportunity that will change the course of our nation for the better. Irrigation is the way to go. We are realigning this year’s budget to ensure food security as well as growing our agriculture through irrigation”

The President further urged youths in the country to desist from engaging in vices that distract them from positively contributing to national affairs.

He also said there is need for Government to protect the farmers that lost their crops due to the drought.

Youth Minister Elvis Nkandu said it is time that youth actively participate in the affairs of the country so that they can bring about positive change.

Meanwhile, Eastern Province Minister Peter Phiri thanked President Hichilema for holding the event in the Eastern Province.

Youths Representative, Alifa Banda pledged the youths commitment to tackling some of the challenges that the country is facing among them is unemployment and environmental degradation.

 

 

 

Liquid Intelligent spearheads youth innovation by connecting Mukuba UniPod

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Liquid Intelligent spearheads youth innovation by connecting Mukuba UniPod

By Benedict Tembo

Liquid Intelligent Technologies has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to provide fibre internet connection to the Mukuba UniPod, an innovation lab located at the Copperbelt University in Kitwe.
The MoU was signed at the official launch of the UniPod, which also saw over 20 innovators showcasing their ideas on February 25th.

“This partnership reiterates Liquid Zambia’s commitment to advancing equitable, quality education in Zambia and promoting innovation among students in the country. This is in line with the Zambian government’s digital agenda, and our core vision of ensuring that no African is left behind in the digital age,” said Liquid Telecom Chief Executive Officer Mark Townsend.
“By joining forces with UNDP and Copperbelt University, who share our vision, we are empowering the country’s students with the skills and tools they need to succeed in the rapidly transforming job market,” Mr Townsend said.

“The Mukuba UniPod presents an opportunity to young Zambians looking to channel their curiosities, skills and ideas into innovative solutions that will contribute to sustainable development in the country. It was therefore essential to provide connectivity in the space, making the Mukuba UniPod a portal to the abundant resources, people and networks they would need to ideate, create and market their solutions ” UNDP Resident Representative James Wakiaga said.
“The partnership between UNDP and Liquid is a great step towards enhancing the connectivity of the hub and nurturing creativity and experimentation within its walls,” he said.

As the 11th UniPod in Africa, the Mukuba UniPod forms part of UNDP’s Timbuktoo innovation network, providing opportunities for collaboration across African countries, and building an innovation ecosystem on the continent.
The importance of such innovation hubs in driving economic growth and creating a dynamic ecosystem that attracts investment and talent, is evidenced by Zambia’s creation of a dedicated National Technology Business Centre, a statutory body under the Ministry of Technology and Science, to support the country’s entrepreneurs and innovators.

The Mukuba UniPod, funded by UNDP, serves as a dedicated space for students from the Copperbelt University and all surrounding colleges in the region to foster innovation, scientific inquiry, and collaboration.
Students are exposed to design thinking, software and equipment for prototyping, and enhanced skills in digital fabrication, while faculty members work closely with students on design projects that could be developed into commercially viable products.

By supplying connectivity for the Mukuba UniPod, Liquid Zambia is demonstrating the power of public-private partnerships in driving positive change, supporting innovation in education, accelerating Zambia’s digital transformation, and ensuring that students have the tools necessary to thrive in the digital age.
Liquid Zambia is a business of Cassava Technologies, a pan African technology group.

Zambia’s Success at 2024 ITB Berlin Could Boost Tourism Inflows from Germany

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Zambia’s Success at 2024 ITB Berlin Could Boost Tourism Inflows from Germany

Zambia’s participation at the 2024 ITB Berlin trade show will significantly enhance the country’s efforts to increase the number of tourism inflows from Germany.

Speaking at the just ended 2024 ITB Berlin trade show in Berlin,Zambia’s Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany H.E Winnie Natala Chibesakunda expressed optimism that efforts to attract Germany tourism inflows to Zambia will produce favourable results.

She said engagements with various stakeholders from the tourism sector have helped private exhibitors from Zambia with opportunities to showcase their products and services and to better understand the Germany market so that they tailor their various packages to meet the expectations of different potential travellers from the Germany market.

Ambassador Chibesakunda noted that the many engagements and networking during the three day trade show will also help in enhancing better collaboration between countries in selling unique tourism attractions and products that are linked.

“Some attractions are closely linked between countries and you have animals that migrate between countries at certain periods of the year but with better collaboration between countries, these products can be marketed the whole year and not only at selected periods of the year.” She noted.

The ITB Berlin trade show is held every year in March in Berlin, Germany and is the world’s largest tourism trade show which attracts thousands of tourism industry key players from over 180 countries.

Zambia was represented at the ITB Berlin trade show by the Ministry of Tourism led by Tourism Minister Hon Rodney Sikumba who was delegation leader, the Zambia Tourism Agency (ZTA) and private sector players.

Private sector participants from Zambia included Voyagers Zambia DMC, konkamoya Lodge, Lilayi Lodge,Memorable Journeys, Wild Dog Lodge,Chkunto Safaris, North Kafue Safaris, Tryyambia Tourism & Lifestyle, African Vacations ,Corporate Air and Livingstones Adventures. Others are Classic Zambia Safaris, Lion Camp, BlueBerry Travels, Mukalya Game Resort,Bundu Safari, Mwamfushi Safari Lodge, Zikomo Safari, Radisson Blu Mosi -Oa- Tunya Resort and African Escapades.

Issued By Lubinda Kashewe

First Secretary-Press

Berlin, Germany

Zambia’s Economic Development being retarded by Illicit Financial flows

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Zambia’s Economic Development being retarded by Illicit Financial flows

By Mwansa Chalwe Snr

The new Dawn government has finally managed to convince all the members of the Official Creditors Committee (OCC) to sign the G20 Debt Restructuring Memorandum of Understanding, with India and China. putting pen to paper at the end of February,2014. The Ministry of Finance and National Planning should now show the same dogged determination, by focusing on sealing the massive forex revenue leakages resulting from Illicit Financial Flows (IFF).

There are three broad channels that billions of dollars are lost to Zambia every year. And these are:through multinational enterprises (MNEs)especially mining houses’ sophisticated transactions,smuggling of natural resources such as gemstones, timber, and wildlife and finally, through corruption
and money laundering activities.

Illicit Financial flows fuels excessive borrowing

Zambians need to be made aware that the debt that the country has accumulated, is in part , due to the fact that billions of US dollars disappear each year, without a trace and end up in tax havens and/or absorbed into Western economies, and now China, thus forcing the various governments to accumulate excessive debt to fill up the gap created in order to carry out development projects.Capital flight is one of the causes of countries like Zambia resorting to borrowing to finance
development programs and projects.

It is an open secret that there is illicit exploitation of Zambia natural resources such as copper, gold,cobalt, uranium, timber, emeralds, diamonds, manganese and other precious metals and wildlife which are being exported abroad illegally from the country.The losses of capital through IFFs runs in billions, as recent Financial Intelligence report has disclosed.

And more recently, Mines and Minerals Development Minister, Paul Kabuswe bemoaned the fact that Zambia’s current 850,000 tonnes annual copper production was way too low and incorrect because of leakages in the mining sector.

According to Zambia’s latest Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC) report for the fourth quarter of the year 2023, over US$2.8 billion was transferred from Zambia to Asia in just three months.

“Some newly incorporated companies used Zambians as front shareholders and directors, while foreign nationals maintained control of the bank accounts. Funds were introduced into the financial system mainly through large cash deposits made in US Dollars. These funds were then transferred out of the country on the pretext of paying for imports with no evidence of corresponding goods received by the importer”, the FIC report said.

Zambia is in the unenviable position of being one of the top countries with the highest illicit financial flows in Africa. And this issue is not a new one. In December 2012, Sarah Freitas, a Global Financial Integrity (GFI) Economist co-authored a report where she said Illicit financial flows due to crime,corruption, and tax evasion cost Zambia $8.8 billion from 2001-2010.

“Our research finds that $8.8 billion left Zambia in illicit financial flows between 2001 and 2010. Of that, $4.9 billion can be attributed to trade mis invoicing, which is a type of trade fraud used by commercial importers and exporters around the world.

“This is a very serious problem. Zambia’s GDP was $19.2 billion in 2011. Its per-capita GDP was $1,413. Its government collected a total of $4.3 billion in revenue. It can’t afford to be haemorrhaging illicit capital in such staggering amounts”, she wrote.

Zambia is a Net Creditor

In its 2020 report entitled: Tackling Illicit Financial Flows for Sustainable Development in Africa, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) said that an estimated US$ 88.6 billion left Africa as illicit capital flight.

Furthermore, according to the Report of the High-Level Panel on IFFs from Africa, copper accounted for 80 percent of IFFs in Zambia, while the nation accounted for about 65 percent of IFFs in the African continent. This issue is so serious that the United Nations Secretary General António Guterres is on record as having expressed his concern as far back as 2017.

“I am convinced that today there is more money leaving a continent like Africa due to money laundering and tax evasion and illicit financial flows than the money that goes in through official development aid, and this is a common responsibility of the international community”, He said.

And according to research by renowned economist Professor Dikumana of Massachusetts University, Zambia and other African countries are net creditors, which means far more money flowed out of Zambia than into them, thus exposing the hypocrisy of the benefits of foreign direct investment and donor funding. Recent research shows that the total sum that leaves developing
countries each year as unreported financial outflows, referred to as illicit capital flight, amounts to as much as ten times the annual global aid flows, and twice the amount of debt developing countries repay each year.

“What we have been highlighting is the paradox with African countries. We see a continent that has the largest shortage of finance but also at the same time we are seeing a massive amount of money fleeing the continent. We’re talking about money that’s being stolen or embezzled out of the continent. So the paradox is you have a continent that needs money but it’s a continent that is also financing the rest of the world, in countries that don’t need the money. Money is being lost which
could have been used to finance investments”, wrote Professor Léonce Ndikumana from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in his research paper.

Zambia and Nigeria worst affected

And in his research on IFF, Stephen Yeboah, a Research Consultant at the African Natural Resources Centre of the African Development Bank (AfDB), found that Nigeria and Zambia are among the worst affected in terms of not benefiting from their resources in Africa. “The practices of misinvoicing in Nigeria’s oil and Zambia’s copper exports and imports reflect the
challenges that illicit financial flows present to Africa’s extractive sector. Between 1996 and 2014,under invoicing of oil exports from Nigeria to the United States was worth $69.7 billion. In Zambia,over the same period, a record of $28.9 billion of copper exports to Switzerland, which is more than half of all its copper exports, did not reflect in Switzerland’s import statistics,” he wrote in his research paper.

It is very clear from empirical evidence that the major culprits of illicit financial flows are Multinational Enterprises (MNEs) through the manipulation of trade transactions. Trade misinvoicing (under valuing exports and overvaluing imports), transfer pricing, payments between parent companies and their subsidiaries, and profit-shifting mechanisms designed to conceal revenues are all common practices by companies seeking to maximise profits in the process undermining or negating
the expected positive effect of foreign direct investment and aid.

The renowned Pan Africanist, the former South Africa President Thabo Mbeki once headed the AU High level Panel on IFFS as Chairman . He pointed out the challenges that issue posed. “Our heads of State and government are aware that the problem of illicit financial flows is exacerbated by corrupt tendencies, lack of or weak African institutions both at national and
continental levels in all sectors, governance challenges, weak tax administration, and lack of capacity to monitor and curb such criminal activities,” He stated in one of his reports.

Measures to minimize Illicit financial flows.

There is no argument whatsoever that Zambia is losing billions through sophisticated multinational machinations, smuggling, corruption, and money laundering. The African Union, the Africa Development Bank, the G20, the World Bank and the United Nations have all agreed and confirmed this. The evidence from international studies have also shown that countries like Botswana have the lowest illicit financial outflows in Africa, whereas Zambia and Nigeria have the highest. There is,
therefore, something that Zambia can do to remove this infamous label.

The first and simplest action that could be taken is to embark on a fact-finding mission to neighboring Botswana – where this Author spent decades, and got exposed to how they safeguard their natural resources – in order to learn from them. Botswana has almost zero illicit financial flows due to the smart control measures, and punitive legislation they have passed which have acted as a deterrent. The Botswana approach prevent people from committing these economic crimes before they happen. In our case, we have been closing the stable after the horse has bolted!

Secondly, in order to limit the smuggling of Zambia’s resources, implementation of simple security measures can be a major deterrent. There is need to put in measures of monitoring small aerodromes in rural Zambia especially in the North Western Province and inspections of light aircraft and drones bound for foreign countries. The army and Air force could be useful in the enforcement of Zambia’s economic security by limiting smuggling.

Thirdly, the Zambian government should seriously look at building and strengthening the capacity of Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) as it is currently not well resourced with technology and specialized staff with sufficient qualifications and experience to handle the sophisticated machinations of Mining houses and other MNEs.

Fourthly, in the medium term, consideration ought to be made to set up a separate and an independent Unit from ZRA .This institution should be filled in with head hunted Zambian professionals from the diaspora and foreign experts who are not infected with the corruption bug which is the greatest enabler of illicit financial flows in Zambia.The fifth thing that could be done is for Zambia to cooperate with international organizations such as the OECD, IMF, and World Bank for help to develop best practices and exchange information to combat tax evasion and illicit financial flows.

Conclusion

There is no argument whatsoever that Zambia is losing billions through sophisticated multinational schemes, smuggling, corruption, and money laundering. The Zambian government should seriously and aggressively address this issue because it is low hanging fruit for domestic capital mobilization. It is just as important, if not more important in the long term to debt restructuring. It should be next priority.There is no excuse whatsoever why drastic measures cannot immediately be introduced to minimize this scourge, which is affecting the exchange rate and by extension the cost of living and cost of doing business and generally the economic performance of the country.

The Zambian economic environment is just too liberal and open compared to other countries in Africa and the Southern Africa region, may be even Europe. There are no basic common sense controls on foreign exchange externalization and trafficking of resources, such that citizens from other countries come here to get foreign currency, especially the United States Dollars. The country is a paradise for economic criminals, especially foreigners, in collusion with their Zambian enablers. And that is why
we at the top of the Champions league of illicit financial flows traffickers in Africa. This must be put to a stop by the New Dawn government.

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

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