Minister Mutati Advocates Industry-Aligned Skills Training at NORTEC
Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati has advocated quality skills training that responds to the needs of the industry.
Officiating at the ground breaking ceremony for the construction of the open air Automotive workshop at Northern Technical College in Ndola, Mr. Mutati said good infrastructure and equipment is key in skills development.
He disclosed that the Automotive workshop project is valued at around $4,000,000.
“We are going to have modern workshops, fully equipped. Not only physical but also at the intellectual level and for us to be equipped at the intellectual level, let us design a programme for our lecturers at NORTEC to upgrade their skills, including secondment to other companies and countries where they can be better and strongly equipped to deliver the skills,” Mr. Mutati said.
“So we need to have a deliberate programme. We also need to have a deliberate programme where our students can have exposure to the real industry. They can go and mingle with industry, including the lecturers so that you know what industry wants and you train to respond to the demands of industry,” he said.
Mr. Mutati further challenged NORTEC to become a center of excellence for heavy equipment repair in Africa.
NORTEC Principal Martin Kasonso hailed the construction of the workshop being funded by the Swedish government, UNIDO in partnership with VOLVO.
Government Removes Buyback Option From NHIMA
Minister of Labour and Social Security Brenda Tembatamba announced the removal of the buyback option under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIMA).
Ms Tambatamba says the buyback policy, which was introduced in 2020 and waived the waiting period that was required for members of the scheme to access services has been removed due to the high cost implications on NHIMA.
The Minister, who was delivering a Ministerial statement in Parliament, explained that whilst the introduction of the buyback policy was well intended, a large number of members from the informal sector opted to pay premiums only when sick and in urgent need of medical services, as some even required expensive medical procedures including cancer treatment, which in some cases cost as high as K8,000 per member.
“Despite the good intentions of the buyback programme, a large number of members from the informal sector only registered as members of the scheme when they were already sick. As a result, they would only pay the required average premium of K200 (which is K50 by 4 months) and then access all the services such as laboratory services, drugs and in some cases even very expensive services such as CT and MRI scans,” she noted.
She added that most of the members even stopped paying premiums once they received the medical service and only returned to pay the K200 premium arrears under the buyback option when they fall ill again.
Ms Tambatamba lamented that such practices are affecting the sustainability of NHIMA and feared that if continued, they may render NHIMA bankrupt as the trend proved that the number of claims so far exceeded the premiums received.
“The actuarial evaluation on scheme sustainability conducted, revealed that the surge in claims was mainly emanating from the buyback option clause which was prevalent in the informal sector. The actuarial study also revealed that if the same trajectory is maintained, the scheme will run bankrupt. The removal of this option is primarily to save the fund from bankruptcy and from grinding to a halt under our watch,” she said.
Ms Tambatamba disclosed that the new approach which will be implemented in this regard is aimed at encouraging the informal sector and the public at large to pre- register their membership and to ensure that members’ contributions are consistent to avoid a repeat of the situation.
She that the Ministry has to this effect embarked on a rigorous sensitisation campaign on the need to contribute consistently and pre-register in order to access the health insurance services.
The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIMA) was established by Act no. 2 of 2018 as a compulsory scheme to provide reliable health care financing for all Zambian citizens and legal residents, in line with the government’s agenda of bringing services closer to the people and ensuring Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
The buyback option enabled new members to register and pay their premiums in retrospect as a buy back of four months and immediately access necessary healthcare services.
Similarly, old members whose payment fell into arrears would also settle the arrears and immediately access necessary healthcare services as long as the arrears were within the four months period.
Authorities Respond to Events at Kabwata Police Station, Stress Importance of Lawfulness
Following recent events at Kabwata Police Station, authorities have issued a firm reminder regarding the sanctity of police premises under the law, emphasizing that any misconduct within their confines will not be tolerated.
In a statement released by Police Public Relations Officer Rae Hamoonga, it was clarified that the actions taken by Kabwata police yesterday were carried out in accordance with legal procedures. Mr. Nakachinda was released following due process, while individuals unlawfully camping at the station were lawfully apprehended. Notably, the arrest of Mr. Emmanuel Mwamba and three others was conducted within the bounds of the law.
Furthermore, police managed to seize three drums used by an unruly crowd, which will serve as vital evidence in ongoing investigations. Hamoonga reiterated that a police station is not a venue for disorderly conduct, emphasizing that individuals engaging in illegal activities within its premises are subject to arrest.
The statement also addressed remarks made by former Head of State, Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, suggesting that “People will rise.” Authorities stated that these comments are under careful scrutiny, and the implications of such statements are being assessed. It was indicated that appropriate legal actions may be taken as necessary.
The importance of respecting the law and maintaining order was reiterated, with emphasis placed on the fact that a police station is not a venue for disruptive behavior. Authorities affirmed their commitment to upholding the law and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
As the situation at Kabwata Police Station continues to unfold, authorities urge the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and refrain from engaging in activities that may jeopardize public order and safety.
Tear Gas Deployed as Tensions Rose at Kabwata Police Station
Tensions flared at Kabwata Police Station yesterday morning as law enforcement officers resorted to firing tear gas to disperse members of the Patriotic Front (PF) faction who had gathered outside the station. The gathering occurred in response to the detention of Raphael Nakachinda.
Former President Edgar Lungu, who was present among the PF faction members, voiced concern over the actions of the police, suggesting that such behavior could provoke public discontent against the government. Lungu warned that if the conduct of the police persisted, it could lead to President Hakainde Hichilema relinquishing power before the scheduled 2026 elections.
The remarks by Mr. Lungu have drawn criticism from the government, with Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana expressing disappointment. Kawana emphasized that such sentiments should not come from someone who previously occupied the highest office in the country.
Kawana pointed out that individuals inciting unruly behavior are the very people being led by the former head of state at police stations.
President Hichilema Affirms Commitment to UN Partnership for Economic Development
President Hakainde Hichilema has emphasized the crucial role of collaboration with the United Nations system in driving economic development in Zambia. With 2024 marked as a year of economic expansion, President Hichilema has underscored the significance of partnerships that foster growth and prosperity for the Zambian people.
During a meeting with United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Regional Director for Africa and Assistant Secretary General Ahunna Eziakonwa at State House, President Hichilema expressed gratitude for the longstanding cooperation between Zambia and the UN system. He reiterated the government’s commitment to working closely with the UN family to create opportunities aimed at enhancing the well-being of Zambians.
“These institutions are our partners in development. I would therefore like to emphasize our appreciation for recognizing Zambia as a peaceful country, and this recognition should translate into tangible development outcomes for the Zambian people,” President Hichilema remarked.
Acknowledging the adverse effects of climate change on Zambia’s economic ambitions, President Hichilema affirmed that discussions with the UNDP would be held to address climate change challenges. He emphasized the importance of ensuring food security not only for Zambians but also for neighboring countries that rely on Zambia’s agricultural exports.
Meanwhile, UNDP Regional Director for Africa and Assistant Secretary General Ahunna Eziakonwa commended Zambia for its commitment to maintaining peace, security, and stability. She highlighted Zambia as a beacon of peace in the region, devoid of violent or terrorism risks, which makes it an attractive destination for investment.
“If we do not succeed in Zambia, then I believe we will struggle elsewhere in terms of development or poverty alleviation,” Ms. Eziakonwa stated, emphasizing the significance of leveraging Zambia’s peaceful environment to tackle poverty and promote sustainable development.
Ms. Eziakonwa called for concerted efforts to overcome poverty, leveraging the peace, security, and stability enjoyed by Zambia. She emphasized the need for collaborative action to address poverty and foster inclusive growth across the country.
Chitambo District Commissioner Dies in Tragic Road Accident
The Chitambo District Commissioner, Evans Chola, tragically lost his life in a road accident on the Great North Road near the Chilata area of Mkushi District. The incident occurred as Mr. Chola was en route to Kabwe for a Provincial Development Coordinating Committee Meeting earlier this morning.
Reports indicate that Mr. Chola, traveling in his official vehicle, was on his way to Kabwe when the vehicle overturned around 06:00 hours. According to Police Spokesperson Rae Hamoonga, the accident resulted in fatal injuries for Mr. Chola, who was thrown from the vehicle. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Mkushi District Hospital.
The driver of the vehicle, identified as Jones Malipilo, 31, and Peter Chilombo, 33, a head teacher at Chiotwe Primary School in Chitambo, sustained injuries in the accident and are currently receiving treatment at the Mkushi District Hospital.
Hamoonga further stated that investigations into the circumstances of the accident are ongoing.
Reacting to the tragic news, Central Province Minister Princess Kasune expressed shock and extended her condolences to the family of Mr. Chola. She described his untimely demise as a significant loss not only to his family but also to Central Province and the UPND party.
Chief Tungati of Luwingu District Emphasizes Urgent Need for Rural Healthcare Access
Chief Tungati of the Bemba people of Luwingu District has said access to quality health care remains a huge challenge in many remote parts of the country.
Chief Tungati noted that people in rural areas die in homes because they cannot access specialised medical services in their localities.
The traditional leader was speaking at his palace when a delegation from the Zambia Flying Doctors Service (ZFDS) that has been conducting a specialized medical outreach in Luwingu District paid a courtesy call on him.
Chief Tungati has since called on the Zambia Flying Doctors Service (ZFDS) to continue supplementing Government efforts in providing quality medical services.
“Many sick people here can’t travel to Luwingu District Hospital or Kasama to access specialised medical treatment because they have no means to enable them move. Some people are chronically ill and dying in homes. Therefore, this outreach is very important,” he said.
“Let the Flying Doctors Service continue serving our people. We thank the Flying Doctors Service Management for this idea of helping our people,” Chief Tungati said.
ZFDS has been implementing 8 outreaches in Luwingu, Milenge, Lunte, Samfya, Chongwe, Mambwe, Chipata and Chadiza where eye, dental and orthopedics services are being offered.
Luwingu Outreach Team leader Dr. Nkole highlighted the health services being provided as General, Dental, Orthopedic, Ophthalmology, Laboratory and Pharmacy.
Zambia Advocates Balanced Perspective and Negotiated Solutions in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict at International Court of Justice
Zambia Delivers An Oral Statememt Before The International Court Of Justice In Proceedings Concerning The Request For An Advisory Opinion On The Legal Consequences Arising From The Policies And Practices Of Israel In The Occupied Palestinian Territory ,Including East Jerusalem
The Republic of Zambia has made an oral submission at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) before a panel of fifteen (15) Judges, following a request for an Advisory Opinion by the United Nations General Assembly, concerning the legal consequences arising from the policies and practices of Israel in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem. Mr. Marshal Muchende, Solicitor General, SC, delivered the Statement on behalf of the Republic of Zambia. He was flanked by H.E Mr. Sylvester Mundanda, Ambassador of the Republic of Zambia to the BENELUX countries, and Senior Government officials.
Mr. Muchende submitted that Zambia recognises the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to self determination as well as the legitimate security needs of the people of Israel.
Mr. Muchende further submitted that both Israel and Palestine have a duty to respect international human rights law and International humanitarian law, adding that any recourse to the conflict should not be one that puts the blame squarely on one party, but advances a negotiated solution that culminates in a two-state solution.
The Solicitor General stated that Zambia’s support for Palestinian People’s rights to self determination remains steadfast and echoes its consistent position within the United Nations. Mr. Muchende, however, said it is imperative to approach this issue with a comprehensive and balanced perspective.
He further stated that Zambia believes that any declaration, addressing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, must acknowledge the serious considerations of the difficult situation that both parties find themselves in, as they strive to defend the respective rights of their people.
Mr. Muchende submitted that Zambia notes that there has been an argument that negotiations between the two parties have been ineffective hence resorting to advisory opinions. Therefore, Zambia respectfully submitted that the Israelis, Palestinians, Regional States, the broader community and indeed the UN Security Council should first consider the reasons why the negotiations failed in the past and address that issue before resorting to a solution that seeks to bypass the agreed upon negotiations.
Mr. Muchende also submitted that Zambia proposes that the final determination in this matter would be for the two parties to resolve their dispute through settlement means of their choice, which is negotiations, adding that the just and sustainable two-state solution cannot be imposed from the outside through an advisory opinion.
Mr. Muchende concluded by reiterating Zambia’s call for relentless efforts aimed at achieving peace in the Middle East region, based on the principles of the two-state solution.
Issued by: Hambaya Munang’andu
First Secretary Press
Embassy of the Republic of Zambia
Brussels, Belgium
Zambia National Public Health Institute Collaborates with Government Agencies to Address Zoonotic Disease Risks Amid Drought
Amidst growing concerns over the impact of drought on public health, the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI) has embarked on a collaborative effort with government departments responsible for animal health to mitigate the risks of zoonotic diseases.
Director-General of the Institute, Roma Chilengi, who also serves as President Hakainde Hichilema’s Special Assistant on Health, highlighted the potential risks associated with the drought. Chilengi emphasized that the scarcity of pasture due to the drought could lead to increased interaction between humans and wild animals, heightening the risk of zoonotic disease transmission.
Through the ZNPHI’s Pandemic Preparedness Programme, Chilengi revealed ongoing collaboration with various government institutions to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases. This initiative aims to address the challenges posed by the drought and minimize the potential health implications for both humans and animals.
Chilengi made these remarks in Lusaka during the launch of the Animal Health Systems Strengthening Project, generously funded by the United Kingdom government. The project seeks to fortify existing systems to safeguard animals and humans from the threat of diseases.
British High Commissioner to Zambia, Nicholas Woolley, underscored the importance of the Animal Health Systems Strengthening Project in enhancing resilience against disease outbreaks. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote public health and sustainable development in Zambia.
Meanwhile, Zambia’s Livestock and Fisheries Minister, Makozo Chikote, urged local farmers to seize opportunities in the international market by transitioning from small-scale operations. Chikote emphasized the favorable conditions in Zambia for agricultural production and highlighted the potential for local farmers to contribute significantly to the global market.
Echoing these sentiments, Susan Filippini, Country Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to collaborating with the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries. Filippini stressed the importance of strengthening the One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health, to enhance disease prevention and control efforts.
Mopani Acquisition Is a Scandal That Will Cause Untold Misery To Many In Due Course
The acquisition of Mopani Copper Mines by Delta Mining Limited is a scandal that many will regret in due time. So far in this particular week, this is the most bizarre announcement that the country has heard and ought to pay attention to.
Listen to part of paragraph one of the announcement. “has agreed to acquire 51% of shareholding of Mopani for an investment total of up to $1.1 billion.”
This statement above is one that is simple but very tricky. I will try to explain it below according to my understanding.
(1) Before this transaction, Mopani was wholly owned by Zambians through ZCCM – IH.
(2) Upon acquisition, 51% of shareholding moves from the Zambian people to Delta Mining Limited. This means the control of the mines moves instantly to Delta.
(3) From now on, all future dividends will accrue to new shareholders in line with current shareholding structure.
(4) Now, what has Delta given to the existing shareholders as consideration for them to give up their controlling stake in the mine? According to the announcement as referred to above, Delta is giving a promise to invest up to a total of $1.1 billion. This is one of the most silly expressions that I have ever seen in such transactions.
My question is – once Delta invests $1.1 billion in Mopani, and the mine starts to perform, and consequently the mine starts to issue dividends, who will be receiving those dividends? Is it not Delta itself? If the answer is that it is Delta that will be receiving those dividends, how then can an investment into its own company be considered as consideration for Zambians to give up a controlling stake in the mine?
This is like someone coming to takeover your house and saying, “I will construct a wall fence to the house, and I will also put pavers and then you will remain with a servants quarter as your 41%.” And then as the original owner, you are paid nothing. All you are waiting for is that wall fence and pavers as a payment for giving up the main house, the 51%. If this this is not foolishness then I don’t know what is.
And once new tenants come in, the one who took over your house will receive rental income from the main house while you receive your rental income from the servants quarter.
We have been taken for granted on this. This is one of the most audacious Zambian company transactions I have heard about since privatization.
Let me end by reminding the investor that Article 210 of the Constitution awaits you. Even though the people know about the attempt to mutilate the constitution by making haste amendments to it, owing to the fear of what may come due to such transactions may be under way, I strongly recommend that investors should take due care.
This advise is hearty from my point of view.
Restoring EVERYTHING PATRIOTIC.
MK26.02.2024
Patriotic Front FB page
ZCCM-IH Shareholders Approve Acquisition of Majority Stake in Mopani Copper Mines
In a landmark decision, shareholders of Zambia Consolidated Copper Mines-Investment Holdings (ZCCM-IH) have unanimously greenlit the acquisition of a 51 percent stake in Mopani Copper Mines Plc by Delta Mining Limited. The approval came during the Shareholder’s Extraordinary General Meeting convened in Lusaka on February 23rd, 2024.
Under the terms of the agreement, ZCCM-IH will retain a 49 percent shareholding in Mopani, maintaining a significant presence in the company’s governance structure with three out of nine board seats. Meanwhile, Delta Mining Limited, a subsidiary of International Resource Holdings, will hold the majority stake, with five board seats, while the Zambian Government will occupy one.
The acquisition, valued at up to USD 1.1 billion, underscores a strategic move aimed at enhancing ZCCM-IH’s participation in the copper mining sector and ensuring full visibility into Mopani’s operations.
Following the Extraordinary General Meeting, ZCCM-IH Board Chairperson Kakenenwa Muyangwa expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, hailing the transaction as a significant milestone that delivers substantial value to ZCCM-IH, Mopani, and the Zambian people.
Muyangwa emphasized that the acquisition marks a pivotal moment for Zambia’s copper mining industry, aligning with the country’s ambitious target of achieving three million metric tonnes of copper production per annum by 2032.
Loisa Mbatha, Corporate Affairs Manager at ZCCM Investments Holdings, affirmed the corporation’s commitment to advancing the interests of all stakeholders and driving sustainable growth within the mining sector.
The approval of the acquisition signifies a strategic move towards bolstering Zambia’s position in the global copper market, fostering economic development, and harnessing the nation’s vast mineral resources for the benefit of its citizens. As the transaction moves forward, stakeholders anticipate positive outcomes that will contribute to Zambia’s long-term prosperity and industrial advancement.
Bank of Zambia Launches Monetary Policy Report
The Bank of Zambia has launched its first publication of the Monetary Policy Report (MPR) that is expected to enhance transparency, accountability, communication and interactions on monetary policy matters.
The MPR is a product of the newly constituted Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) which was established by statute, thus making it the first time in the history of the Bank to have a statutory MPC.
Bank of Zambia Governor Denny Kalyalya disclosed at the launch of the report in Lusaka, that previously the bank had been publishing the MPR only for internal use but that the new BOZ Act of 2022 requires that the bank publishes it for the public to promote accountability and transparency.
Dr. Kalyalya emphasized the importance of the report which reviews macroeconomic development and gives prospects for inflation over the months ahead.
Dr. Kalyalya explained that the monetary policy committee raised the policy rate by 150 basis points to 12.5 percent to steer inflation towards the 6-8 percent target band and thus help anchor inflation expectations.
He said the decision to raise the policy rate was arrived at after judging from the inflationary pressure which had persisted and inflation was projected to remain above the target band during the forecast period.
Dr. Kalyalya also indicated that inflation is projected to average 12.5 percent in 2024 and then slowdown to 9.9 percent in 2025.
Various stakeholders who attended the launch of the Report called on the people of Zambia to have a change of mindset in order to achieve development.
The Private Sector Development Association (PSDA) Chairperson Yusuf Dodia called on the bank to voice their views frequently when issues of macroeconomic related topics are discussed in the country.
Mr. Dodia said the BOZ is not usually heard when people are debating on issues affecting the economy of the country.
UPND Government’s GMO Mealie Meal Plan
We would like to caution Mr Hakainde Hichilema and his league to respect the nation’s biosafety protocols, in particular the importation and consumption of Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) maize or mealie meal.
GMO maize or mealie meal is prohibited in Zambia, and all successive administrations – UNIP, MMD, and PF- have adhered to these regulations and protected citizens from exposure to these foods.
But we are afraid that if there’s crop failure, as it seems to be the case in this situation, the price of our staple food – mealie meal will more than double, and Mr Hichilema and his corrupt tribal puppet regime will end up feeding this country with imported GMO maize or mealie meal.
We sounded the alarm on this matter last week and before the week could even conclude, our fears were confirmed after the Republican Vice-President Mrs Mutale Nalumango informed the nation that GMO mealie meal is safe for consumption. The Vice- President’s remarks came at the back of a report by the Zambia National Service (ZNS) that the GMO mealie meal, which was meant for export to the DR Congo had been stolen in one of their storage facilities.
Clearly, the perpetrators did this with the view of selling the said GMO mealie meal for consumption on the Zambian market.
Vice-President Nalumango’s stance on the consumption of GMO products, specifically mealie meal, is not only a major policy shift for Mr Hichilema and the UPND government but also revealing of what this corrupt tribal puppet regime intends to do when scarcity of the staple food hits the country owing to crop failure. We said it that the options are very limited for them, and so, the Vice-President’s recent encouragement on the consumption of GMO mealie meal settles our argument that this government will most likely import GMO mealie meal to feed to the nation.
We are aware that they are panicking because they have virtually wiped out the national food reserves after they sold the all maize that could have been used as reserves to the DR Congo and other neighbouring countries. They are under extreme pressure because hunger is looming.
So, they have hatched a plan to begin campaigning for the consumption of GMO maize or mealie meal. This government intends to mobilise various stakeholders like the Church, civil society, labour movement, and their surrogate political parties, among others, to advance their GMO consumption agenda. They’re mobilising, and very soon, we shall see paid voices begin echoing Vice-President Nalumango’s comments on GMO mealie meal consumption.
We urge Zambians not to treat the Vice-President’s statement on the consumption of GMO mealie meal lightly because it is all part of the grand scheme to introduce GMO mealie meal on the market and feed it to our people.
We must resist it.
Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party
Zambia Secures Debt Restructuring Deal with China and India, Signaling Economic Recovery
In a significant stride towards economic stability, Zambia has successfully negotiated a pivotal debt restructuring agreement with two of its major creditors, China and India. President Hakainde Hichilema announced this breakthrough during the Nc’wala Traditional Ceremony for the Ngoni people in Chipata District.
This landmark deal marks a crucial milestone in Zambia’s journey towards financial recovery, following the country’s historic default on foreign debts in November 2020. The agreement with China and India, Zambia’s remaining official creditors, offers a glimmer of hope amidst the nation’s financial distress.
Economist Lubinda Habazoka, also a lecturer at the University of Zambia, hailed the development as a much-needed relief for Zambia’s foreign debt servicing program. He urged private lenders to follow suit and engage in debt restructuring negotiations to alleviate Zambia’s financial burden further.
Similarly, economist Emmanuel Zulu, a Civil Society Debt Alliance member, emphasized the potential positive impact of the deal on Zambia’s credit rating. He noted that the agreement sets the stage for Zambia to seek financial assistance from institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
President Hichilema affirmed the government’s commitment to concluding negotiations with private creditors shortly. He outlined key infrastructure projects, including road developments in Lundazi-Chama, Chipata-Vubwi, and Katete-Chanida, which are set to receive funding from the resources unlocked through debt restructuring.
Emphasizing national unity, President Hichilema called on all stakeholders, including the opposition, to collaborate in advancing Zambia’s development agenda.
As Zambia moves forward with its broader financial strategy, the successful debt restructuring deal with China and India not only provides immediate relief but also sets a precedent for international financial cooperation. With renewed optimism and concerted efforts, Zambia aims to navigate through economic challenges and realize its developmental aspirations in the coming years.