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Malawi Suspends Passport Issuance After Cyber-Attack

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Malawi Suspends Passport Issuance After Cyber-Attack

The government of Malawi has taken the drastic step of suspending the issuance of passports following a cyber-attack on the immigration service’s computer network. President Lazarus Chakwera informed Members of Parliament that the cyber intrusion constituted a grave national security breach, disclosing that the hackers responsible were demanding a ransom.

President Chakwera categorically stated that the government would not entertain the demands of the cybercriminals, emphasizing that Malawi would not negotiate with those who threaten the nation’s security. Instead, efforts are underway to address the issue and restore control over the immigration system.

“We are not in the business of appeasing criminals with public money, nor are we in the business of negotiating with those who attack our country,” President Chakwera asserted.

The suspension of passport issuance comes at a time when demand for travel documents is high in Malawi, particularly among young people seeking job opportunities abroad. President Chakwera has directed the immigration department to provide a temporary solution within three weeks to resume passport issuance while additional security measures are implemented for the long term.

This announcement follows two weeks of disruptions in passport services, initially attributed to a technical glitch. President Chakwera’s revelation of the cyber-attack sheds light on the underlying cause of the delays, although details about the hackers and potential implications for data security remain undisclosed.

The suspension of passport issuance adds to the frustrations of Malawians already grappling with backlog issues and previous disruptions in passport services. Last year, a shortage of passport booklets compounded the problem, exacerbated by foreign currency shortages. Additionally, termination of a passport contract in 2021 due to irregularities further exacerbated delays, prompting criticism of government inefficiency and corruption allegations.

In light of the suspension, individuals without valid passports or whose documents have expired face obstacles in travel plans until passport issuance resumes. The government’s response to the cyber-attack and efforts to restore normalcy in passport services are awaited anxiously by citizens affected by the disruption.

Former RTSA CEO Zindaba Soko Detained for Failure to Attend Court, Faces Forgery Charges

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Former RTSA CEO Zindaba Soko Detained for Failure to Attend Court, Faces Forgery Charges

Former Chief Executive Officer of the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA), Zindaba Soko, has been detained until further notice following his failure to attend court sittings in a forgery case. The development comes as Lusaka Principal Resident Magistrate Irene Wishimanga reserved ruling to March 1, 2024, following Mr. Soko’s explanation for his absence in court.

Mr. Soko, who is charged with forgery and uttering false documents, cited being misled by his previous lawyers regarding the court schedule as the reason for his absence. He claimed that this misinformation led him to travel to Dubai for a job interview, which resulted in his failure to appear before the court.

The situation escalated after Magistrate Wishimanga issued a bench warrant against Mr. Soko on February 19, 2024, due to his non-appearance in court.

In the ongoing case, Mr. Soko is jointly charged with two others for forgery, in addition to facing the charge of uttering false documents.

NCWALA 2024: A Benchmark for Organized and Well-Promoted Traditional Ceremonies

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NCWALA 2024: A Benchmark for Organized and Well-Promoted Traditional Ceremonies

The Ncwala traditional ceremony of 2024 has emerged as a benchmark for organized and well-promoted cultural events, receiving commendation from unexpected quarters for its meticulous planning and effective promotion.

Dr. Nevers Sekwila Mumba, President of the Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), hailed this year’s Ncwala ceremony as a shining example of unity, cultural preservation, and effective event management. While expressing personal reservations about certain cultural practices associated with the ceremony such as “Koswe-eating and blood drinking antiques”, Dr. Mumba commended the organizers and promoters for their exceptional efforts in showcasing the rich heritage of the Ngoni people.

“As your traditional cousins, I know that we don’t easily concede, but on this one, you have set the bar very high and set the standard on how well-organized these traditional ceremonies can be,” Dr. Mumba remarked in his statement.

Acknowledging the significance of traditional ceremonies in preserving cultural values and history, Dr. Mumba emphasized the importance of promoting unity and mutual respect among different cultural groups. He extended his congratulations to His Royal Highness, Chief Mpezeni of the Ngoni People, and all his subjects for the success of the Ncwala ceremony.

The praise from Dr. Mumba underscores the widespread recognition of the exceptional organization and promotion of this year’s Ncwala traditional ceremony. It sets a precedent for other cultural events to emulate, promising a future of vibrant and well-coordinated celebrations across various ethnic groups in Zambia.

As attention turns to future traditional ceremonies, including the anticipated Ukusefya Pa Ng’wena, Dr. Mumba hinted at potential emulation of the successful strategies observed at Ncwala, signaling a positive trend towards enhanced cultural exchanges and collaboration among diverse ethnicities.

The success of Ncwala 2024 not only highlights the cultural richness of Zambia but also reinforces the importance of traditional ceremonies as platforms for cultural preservation, unity, and celebration.

President Hichilema Engages with IMF and IGC in Economic Growth Forum

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President Hichilema Engages with IMF and IGC in Economic Growth Forum

President Hakainde Hichilema led discussions yesterday in an ‘Economic Growth Forum’ alongside Cooperating Partners from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the International Growth Centre (IGC). The forum provided a platform to exchange visions and ideas on maximizing Zambia’s natural resources for national development.

During the forum, President Hichilema articulated the government’s commitment to exploring critical economic sectors such as mining and agriculture, particularly amidst challenges posed by climate change, including the ongoing drought in some regions of Zambia. Strategies to enhance production efficiency in these sectors were emphasized, underlining the government’s determination to unlock Zambia’s economic potential and create job and business opportunities for all citizens.

“We are resolute in our efforts to optimize the utilization of Zambia’s abundant natural resources for the betterment of our nation,” President Hichilema affirmed.

The engagement with IMF and IGC representatives signifies a collaborative approach to addressing economic challenges and fostering sustainable development in Zambia. By leveraging international partnerships and expertise, the government aims to implement innovative solutions that promote inclusive growth and resilience in the face of global challenges.

President Hichilema concluded the forum with a reaffirmation of his administration’s dedication to advancing Zambia’s economic agenda, stating, “Together, we will work tirelessly to realize our vision of a prosperous and thriving Zambia for all.”

Socialist Party Condemns ZNS Involvement in GMO Mealie Meal Trade

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Socialist Party Condemns ZNS Involvement in GMO Mealie Meal Trade

Reagan Kashinga, Copperbelt Provincial Spokesperson for the Socialist Party (SP), has strongly criticized the Zambia National Service’s (ZNS) participation in the importation and exportation of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) mealie meal. This condemnation follows the recent report of over 200 bags of GMO mealie meal being stolen from a ZNS storage facility at the Kasumbalesa Border Post in Chililabombwe.

In a media statement, Mr. Kashinga expressed shock at the revelation that GMO mealie meal, originally intended for export to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), had made its way into the local market. He raised suspicions of a syndicate’s involvement in the ZNS mealie meal business, questioning how the alleged thieves managed to breach the heavily guarded ZNS storage facility.

“We want to categorically state that the whole episode of ZNS exporting mealie meal is questionable, and we suspect a syndicate is behind this business. How did the alleged thieves break into one of the strongly protected ZNS storage facilities housing imported Eagle’s mealie meal meant for export to the DRC?” Mr. Kashinga remarked.

He called upon the ZNS command to swiftly trace the stolen GMO mealie meal before it could be repackaged and distributed within Zambia. While acknowledging ZNS’s role in meeting local demand for mealie meal during crises, Mr. Kashinga asserted that importing and exporting mealie meal was not within the organization’s core mandate. He urged ZNS to leave such activities to private Zambian suppliers, highlighting concerns about potential ulterior motives behind the ZNS’s involvement in the mealie meal trade.

“This incident has just confirmed that ZNS has been feeding our people with imported GMO mealie meal instead of utilizing its milling plants. There is no doubt that this dubious mealie meal trade by people abusing ZNS has resulted in the people of Zambia consuming imported GMO mealie meal unknowingly,” Mr. Kashinga lamented.

Mr. Kashinga cautioned against what he described as a government led by “sophisticated businessmen” whose interests, he claimed, were primarily self-enrichment rather than the welfare of the nation. The Socialist Party remains steadfast in its stance against what it perceives as corrupt practices within the government.

Vice President Nalumango Commends Economic Governance Training For Cabinet Ministers

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Vice President Nalumango Commends Economic Governance Training For Cabinet Ministers

Vice President Mutale Nalumango has lauded the recently concluded Economic Governance Training Workshop for Cabinet Ministers, emphasizing its role in shaping government policy decisions and strategic interventions. Addressing ministers at the closing ceremony of the four-day training workshop in Lusaka, Ms. Nalumango underscored the invaluable insights gained from comprehensive discussions and analysis of various aspects of economic governance.

The Vice President highlighted the significance of exploring crucial elements of economic governance vital for the country’s development and prosperity. She stressed the importance the government places on ministerial training, urging ministers to leverage the skills and knowledge acquired to provide effective leadership and oversight in their respective portfolios.

“Our commitment is to leave a positive footprint in the development of the country, necessitating a holistic approach to economic governance,” Ms. Nalumango affirmed, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required across sectors to drive economic growth and job creation. She called for increased collaboration and coordination among sectors to achieve the country’s economic transformation agenda.

Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Makozo Chikote, echoed the sentiment, noting the training’s role in emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving economic growth. He highlighted the review of service delivery and governance in public sectors as integral components of the training, expressing satisfaction with its outcomes.

Former Secretary to the Cabinet, Leslie Mbula, emphasized the training’s importance in acquainting ministers with the operations of the public service machinery. Mr. Mbula stressed the necessity for ministers to not only understand but also effectively implement the knowledge gained, urging them to share their insights with subordinates within their ministries.

“What remains now is for these ministers to ensure they realize what they have learned here, pass it on to others so that the vision can be realized,” Mr. Mbula stated, underlining the imperative of knowledge dissemination within ministries.

The Economic Governance Training Workshop stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to capacity building and effective governance, setting the stage for informed decision-making and coordinated efforts towards national development goals.

Mwape Upbeat Ahead of Ghana Olympic Clash

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Mwape Upbeat Ahead of Ghana Olympic Clash

Zambia Shepolopolo coach Bruce Mwape is upbeat ahead of Friday’s Paris 2024 Olympics third round, first leg qualifier against the Black Queens of Ghana in Accra.

Mwape has carried 23 Stars players to the west African country following the arrival of midfielders Hellen Chanda and Misozi Zulu from Turkey on Tuesday.

Mwape has assured Zambians of a good result against Ghana.

“I am sure all the Zambians are expecting a good result because the team has been doing well. The Zambians should expect a good result,” Mwape said on arrival in Ghana.

Friday’s match will be played at the Accra Sports Stadium at 19h00CAT.

The second leg will follow at the Levy Mwanawasa stadium in Ndola on 28 February, 2024 at 18h00.

It an embarrassment for Zambia to be poor despite its mineral wealth – MUZ President

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It an embarrassment for Zambia to be poor despite its mineral wealth – MUZ President

Mine Workers Union of Zambia (MUZ) President Joseph Chewe says it is embarrassing that Zambia has been classified as a poor country despite being rich in minerals that include gold, emerald,copper, manganese and cobalt.

Mr. Chewe has advised that Zambia should properly harness its abundant mineral resources to end poverty.

He said Zambia should learn from Middle East countries that have utilised oil to create national wealth.

“Look at how the Arabs have harnessed their wealth through oil.Where have we gone wrong as a country? We have copper and copper as we speak today is one of the minerals that is being used in this energy transition and we must leverage on these benefits and be counted that these minerals copper and manganese can end poverty in our country,” Mr. Chewe told Radio Icengelo News.

“We need to become like Arabs who have harnessed the wealth very well in terms of minerals. We call upon all Zambians that we need to show the next generation that these minerals God has given us must end poverty,” he said.

Mr. Chewe warned that foreigners have been abusing local minerals.

“It is very embarrassing that we can be classified as a poor nation in the midst of abundance, when those countries calling us poor have no minerals. This is very embarrassing so I think as a country we need to come out of these doldrums and change the way this country is classified by utilising our mineral resources and creating more jobs. The mining sector can absorb many unemployed graduates like it used to happen during ZCCM days,” he said.

Former President Lungu shocked by DEC allegations and media reports

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Former President Lungu shocked by DEC allegations and media reports

Zambia’s Sixth President, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu has expressed shock at the false allegations by the Drug Enforcement Commission that they have nabbed his driver or former driver for trafficking in cannabis.

The former President says he has never had a driver named Juvensio Mathews Phiri under State House or under officers attached to his office from the Zambia Police.

He has called on the Drug Enforcement Commission(DEC) Director General, Mr. Nason Banda to show minimum decency and professionalism.

Former President Lungu has called on public institutions to remain professional despite the political pressure they receive from desperate leaders who are engaged in attempting to tarnish his name or his legacy.

The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) issued a statement stating that its officers in Eastern Province arrested former president Edgar Chagwa Lungu’s Driver and Security personnel, identified as Juvensio Mathews Phiri, male aged 53, for trafficking in 55.6 Kg of loose cannabis.

President Lungu has also called on the media to be professional despite the current political pressure, the state of shrunk democratic space, and reject the temptation or allure of making them as paid voices to parrot government propaganda.
He gave an example where he called on the Implementation of quality education in Zambia and the need NOT to sacrifice quality education in the name of free education, a statement that has grossly and falsely been reported that he called for the cancellation of the free education policy.

President Lungu said Zambia was facing a serious crisis with the challenges of the economy, disease outbreaks and the worst cost of living in many decades.

He said Zambia was also facing the threat of food insecurity following the drought caused by the El Niño weather effect and the wanton maize exports that was done without due consideration the national strategic maize reserves.
He said the concerns about food security was so serious that it may worsen the current economic conditions if not dealt with adequately.

He called on the Government of President Hakainde Hichilema to concentrate on delivering service to the people of Zambia and resolving the various crises facing the nation than his efforts concentrating of attempting to destroy democracy and the Opposition in Zambia.

Issued by;
Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba
Chairperson of Information and Publicity
Member of the Central Committee
PATRIOTIC FRONT

PeP Leader Sean Tembo Pleads Not Guilty To Insulting Language

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PeP Leader Sean Tembo Pleads Not Guilty To Insulting Language

Opposition Patriots for Economic Progress (PeP) leader Sean Tembo has taken a fresh plea of not guilty to two charges of insulting language Contrary to Section 179 of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.

Mr Tembo took a fresh plea after the state amended the indictment which had errors.

Particulars of the offence are that on August 27, 2023 in Lusaka District did use insulting language against the President of the Republic of Zambia Mr Hakainde Hichilema.

In count two, on October 17, 2023, Mr Tembo used insulting language which he referred to the Head of State Mr Hichilema.
Lusaka Resident Chief Magistrate Davies Chibwili has adjourned the matter to March 28, 2024 for commencement of trial.

United Kingdom Foundation Pledges Support For Zambia’s Early Childhood Development And Education

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United Kingdom Foundation Pledges Support For Zambia’s Early Childhood Development And Education

In an effort towards bolstering early childhood development and education in Zambia, a delegation led by Ms. Jamie Anne Cooper, President of Big Win Philanthropy, met with President Hakainde Hichilema and his administration to discuss a collaborative initiative. The project, focused on nurturing the youth of Zambia, particularly in Chongwe and Lusaka, has garnered the endorsement of President Hichilema, who emphasized the pivotal role of investing in children for the future of the nation.

During the meeting held at State House, President Hichilema reiterated his government’s commitment to providing essential amenities and education to children nationwide, underscoring the importance of instilling a culture of hard work and responsibility among the youth. He expressed a resolute determination to combat moral decay and cultivate a society grounded in values and principles, both domestically and on a global scale.

Endorsing the initiative, President Hichilema highlighted the crucial role of early childhood development and education in shaping a disciplined and orderly society aligned with Zambia’s aspirations. He emphasized the necessity of ensuring the success of the project, urging for its expansion beyond Lusaka and Chongwe to benefit a broader spectrum of citizens across the country.

Ms. Cooper, representing Big Win Philanthropy, affirmed the organization’s commitment to aligning the program with the government’s objectives for early childhood development and education. The collaborative effort aims to harness resources and expertise to realize Zambia’s vision of nurturing responsible and empowered citizens from a young age.

Education Minister Douglas Syakalima emphasized the critical importance of the first thousand days of a child’s life for their holistic development, further underscoring the significance of investing in early childhood initiatives.

The pledge of support from Big Win Philanthropy represents a significant stride towards advancing early childhood development and education in Zambia, signaling a collective effort between government and philanthropic organizations to secure a brighter future for the nation’s youth.

Conistitutional Amendments To Be Comprehensive ,Not Piecemeal – Nalumango

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Conistitutional Amendments To Be Comprehensive ,Not Piecemeal – Nalumango

In a decisive statement delivered in Parliament, Vice President Mutale Nalumango clarified the government’s stance on constitutional amendments, emphasizing that any proposals for amendments will not be pursued in a piecemeal fashion. Mrs. Nalumango articulated that while recommendations for certain amendments, such as delimitation, exist, the government intends to address multiple non-contentious provisions simultaneously for greater efficiency and consensus-building.

Addressing the legislative body, Vice President Nalumango asserted that the government is committed to fostering consensus by presenting proposed amendments that garner agreement from all parties represented in the House. This approach, she emphasized, is essential to ensuring that constitutional reforms reflect the collective will and interests of the Zambian populace.

Mrs. Nalumango also took the opportunity to dispel allegations leveled against the United Party for National Development (UPND), refuting claims that the party had previously rejected proposals for the country to engage in delimitation while in opposition. She clarified that the UPND’s refusal to support the delimitation proposal stemmed from its inclusion within the broader context of Bill 10, which contained additional amendments deemed regressive and incompatible with the party’s vision for progressive constitutional reform.

Cabinet Ministers Undergo Economic Governance Training

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Cabinet Ministers Undergo Economic Governance Training

President Hichilema emphasizes the importance of informed public service workers for economic transformation

In a bid to bolster efficiency within the governance system and drive productivity in both the public and private sectors, the Economic Governance Training for Cabinet Ministers was launched at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre. The initiative, spearheaded by President Hakainde Hichilema, aims to professionalize the civil service, a crucial component in delivering on promises made to the people of Zambia.

President Hichilema pointed out the significance of an informed and quality public service workforce in executing the economic transformation agenda set forth by his administration. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at the Mulungushi Conference Centre in Lusaka, he emphasized the pivotal role of information sharing among public servants as fundamental to economic development.

Conducted by the National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA), the training program for Cabinet Ministers in economic governance is anticipated to catalyze Zambia’s economic growth. President Hichilema articulated that his government’s vision is to translate clear policies and procedures into tangible economic progress, drawing parallels with nations like Singapore that have achieved remarkable economic growth within a relatively short span.

Highlighting 2024 as the year dedicated to economic expansion through job creation, President Hichilema stressed the necessity of a robust economy to sustain initiatives such as the free education policy introduced by his administration. He further underscored the interconnectivity of the energy sector with key sectors like mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, affirming the government’s commitment to revitalizing the energy sector to bolster the Zambian economy.

NIPA Executive Director, Royson Mukwena, elucidated that the intensive four-day training program aimed to equip Cabinet Ministers with the necessary skills to navigate economic challenges and opportunities. Dr. Mukwena emphasized the pivotal role of Cabinet Ministers as key drivers of economic transformation and expressed confidence that the training would enhance their comprehension of economic dynamics.

Secretary to Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa, lauded NIPA’s efforts in fortifying the public service and commended the institution’s proactive steps towards capacity building. Kangwa highlighted NIPA’s introduction of virtual training sessions to accommodate a broader spectrum of public service workers, underscoring the institution’s commitment to fostering economic growth and transformation.

The Economic Governance Training for Cabinet Ministers marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s quest for economic revitalization, underlining the government’s dedication to empowering its workforce and fostering sustainable development.

Copper Queens Striker Norin Betani Dies

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Copper Queens Striker Norin Betani Dies

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) is in mourning following the tragic passing of Norin Betani, a talented striker for both the Copper Queens and Indeni Roses. Betani’s untimely demise occurred on Wednesday morning at the University Teaching Hospital, where she had been undergoing treatment after being diagnosed with suspected malaria.

Reuben Kamanga, the General Secretary of FAZ, expressed profound sadness at Betani’s passing. He revealed that the player had reported to camp while feeling unwell, prompting immediate action from the team’s medical staff. Betani was swiftly taken to Kanyama Level One hospital for examination before being transferred to the University Teaching Hospital on their recommendation.

“It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of one of our female players, Norin Betani, who was part of the provisional squad for the upcoming match against Ghana,” Kamanga stated. “FAZ, along with the player’s family and her club, Indeni Roses, remained closely involved throughout her hospitalization.”

Details regarding Betani’s funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course, Kamanga assured. He also urged the football community to respect the privacy of the family during this difficult time.

The funeral service for Norin Betani is currently underway at her parents’ residence in Garden House, Lusaka. FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga, along with members of the FAZ secretariat, visited the bereaved family to offer condolences and support.

Betani’s father expressed gratitude for FAZ’s gesture of solidarity and the assistance provided during his daughter’s illness.

Norin Betani was among the 30 players selected for the provisional squad for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games qualifier in Accra, underscoring her promising talent and dedication to the sport.

The Zambian football community joins hands in mourning the loss of Norin Betani, remembering her as not only a skilled athlete but also a cherished member of the football family.

Bruce Mwape Mourns Betani

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Bruce Mwape Mourns Betani

Zambia Shepolopolo coach Bruce Mwape has expressed his sadness over the death of striker Norin Betani.

According to FAZ, Betani died on Wednesday morning at the University Teaching Hospital after being diagnosed with suspected malaria while in camp with the Women’s Team in Lusaka.

Betani of Indeni Roses was in the Women’s National Team provisional squad for the Olympics qualifier against Ghana to be played this Friday in Accra.

“It is actually very sad especially that we are preparing for the game against Ghana in the Olympic qualifier. When we got the news it was early in the morning and all the players were very sad and even the coaching bench is very sad,” Mwape said on arrival in Ghana.

“This is something we never expected and looking at the player herself, she was a very promising player. The first time showed that she could be one of the players in the team,” he said.

Mwape concluded:”I pass my condolences to the family, I know the family is equally sad. We only hope there won’t be any friction because we don’t know what actually transpired with the player.”

The funeral is at Betani’s family home in Lusaka.

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