Join our community of SUBSCRIBERS and be part of the conversation.
To subscribe, simply enter your email address on our website or click the subscribe button below. Don't worry, we respect your privacy and won't spam your inbox. Your information is safe with us.
Chief Chikwanda of the Bemba speaking people in Mpika district of Muchinga province is happy that the Chikwanda Gender Based Violence Foundation has managed to withdraw 22 young girls from early child marriages in his chiefdom.
Chief Chikwanda disclosed this during an interview with the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) in Mpika today.
He said between January and July this year, the foundation has successfully managed to end 22 Child marriages affecting girls and boys aged between 16 and 18 year olds from nine villages in his chiefdom.
The traditional leader said all 22 girls have since been assisted to go back to school by Chikwanda Trust Fund through payment of school fees.
Chief Chikwanda said Child Marriages can be detrimental to the physical and emotional well-being of children thereby robbing them of a better future.
The traditional leader is however not happy that some parents have been actively involved in arranging child marriages, a situation he described as retrogressive for the children’s well-being.
And Chikwanda Gender Based Violence Foundation Chairman, Tom Kasomo said that his organization has embarked on a door to door sensitization programme which is focusing on the dangers of child marriages and its reduction.
Mr Kasomo said some parents have supported child marriages due to high levels of ignorance on their part and selfish interest to get dowry.
He said reducing and eliminating child marriages in our communities needs concerted efforts from parents and other stakeholders.
The Botswana Football Association has confirmed the date and venue of the 2020 CHAN qualifier 1st leg home tie against Zambia.
Chipolopolo and Botswana will meet in the penultimate knockout stage of the Cameroon 2020 CHAN qualifiers at the end of July.
BFA stated that the second round, first leg qualifier will be played in Francistown on July 26 at 19h00.
The final leg is set for August 3 in Lusaka.
Winner over both legs will play Angola or eSwatini in the final qualifying round.
The final round, first leg is set for September 21 while the last leg is set for October 18 to decide who qualifies to tournament Cameroon will host this January.
It will be two sides second successive meeting in 2019 after Chipolopolo beat Botswana 1-0 in the COSAFA Cup final on June 8 in South Africa.
It will also be the second time Botswana and Chipolopolo play in a CHAN qualifier.
Zambia won another second round qualifier 3-1 on aggregate following a 3-0 final leg victory at Woodlands Stadium in Lusaka in May,2018 on the road to the inaugural tournament hosted by Cote d’Ivoire in 2019.
Zambia National Farmers Union (ZNFU) President, Jervis Zimba, says there is urgent need for the Foot and Mouth Disease to be declared a national disaster.
Mr Zimba notes that the five provinces that have been hit by the cattle disease include Central, Southern, Muchinga, Northern and Eastern Provinces.
The ZNFU President made this call yesterday during the National Harvest Day held Mumbwa district, Central Province.
Mr Zimba explained that the farmer union has engaged stakeholders in the livestock industry to come up with measures on how to resolve the outcry over the imported livestock products as well as the FMD challenges on June 6th, 2019.
He added that the development came to light when all livestock related imported products and inputs were banned without any prior consultations with relevant stakeholders.
Mr Zimba noted that the resolutions were submitted to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock on June 7th, 2019, and that the union still awaits response from the authority.
He has since appealed for speedy implementation of the resolutions which were submitted to the ministry which includes joint action with the private sector.
Mr Zimba said among the resolutions farmers proposed, included progressive ideas that could reduce the financial burden on government, to vaccinate all the animals in the affected areas.
He said it was further suggested that under special conditions, government could select private companies to source recommended vaccines, for livestock farmers who are willing to purchase the vaccines and have their animals vaccinated.
And President Edgar Lungu stated that government is concerned with the spread of the Foot and Mouth Disease in the country, assuring that government is making resources available to ensure that the disease is contained.
The National Harvest Day was held at Mababe farms in Chief Kaingu’s area and was graced by President Edgar Lungu.
SSED-CO Chairman Chance Kabaghe (second left) shakes hands with North-Western Province Minister Nathaniel Mubukwanu as Expo North Western Coordinator Christopher Bwalya (far right) looks on. – Picture by Andrew-Knox Kaniki/SUMA SYSTEMS.
By DERRICK SILIMINA
SEED-CO has donated K50,000 towards the hosting of the EXPO North-West 2019 slated for August this year, with great hope that agriculture will out-perform mining in the future.
Seed-Co Chairman Chance Kabaghe handed over the donation to North-Western Province Minister Nathaniel Mubukwanu in Lusaka on Wednesday.
Speaking during the hand-over ceremony, Mr Kabaghe said the positioning of North-Western Province in the regional geography of Zambia was key to steer the agriculture sector forward.
“As Seed-Co, we’ve seen the kind of agricultural resources that are domiciled in the province, the kind of rain that you receive, the soils that you are endowed with. North-Western Province is no doubt going to be the granary of this country. You have Angola on your western side and on your northern side, you have the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Both countries are deficit countries in terms of crop, livestock and fish production.
“Again, you are able to produce not only for the province and the country at large but for sure you will be producing for DRC and for Angola as well,” Mr Kabaghe noted.
He affirmed that Seed-Co, being a national company would like to see that the issue of seed for farmers in the province was not a challenge, especially now that the August 18-24 Exposition was likely to attract more farmers.
“We have bred already top-class varieties for maize, wheat, soya beans and other crops for the province. So, no investor that is coming for the Expo should be thinking that seed should be an issue for North-Western Province. We have all the required seed varieties for the province. We do know that because of the continued good rains that you do receive, we do have long-maturing varieties but in case certain farmers require medium to short term varieties, we do also have those varieties for the province.”
NORTH-Western Province Minister Nathaniel Mubukwanu (second left) and SEED-CO Chairman Chance Kabaghe (second right) display the K50,000 cheque donation. – Picture by Andrew-Knox Kaniki/SUMA SYSTEMS.
Seed-Co as a company was delighted to support and see that the Expo-North West becomes a success.
“We have been committed in all the provinces and our budget has been really tight to support all the Expos for this year but we thought that it is extremely important that we are with you in offsetting most of your costs in hosting this extremely important Expo.”
Mr Kabaghe further noted that despite the mining sector being the centre of attention in the province, agriculture production was critical for developing the province.
“I do know that people are just talking about mining, mining in North-Western Province and that it is the next Copperbelt Province; but minister to tell you the truth; mining will not bring about the kind of benefits that agriculture is going to give to the province. If we want to uplift the living standards of our people in this province, it is through agriculture.
“We have seen what mining does, not only in this country but all over the world. They employ just a small group of people and just leave holes after they have exhausted minerals; but agriculture is sustainable and it is there to look after our people through and through,” he said.
Receiving the cheque, Mr Mubukwanu thanked Seed-Co for coming forward and supporting the hosting of the Expo North-Western.
“On behalf of my team in North-Western Province, we would like to sincerely and profoundly express our deeper appreciation to you in person and Seed-Co for responding positively to our call for support as we begin a journey to unveil the hidden treasures of the province. You have said it all and very well that for us, agriculture through this Expo is going to turn around the story of the province.”
Mr Mubukwanu agreed that all the key fundamentals that could contribute to the growth of the sector are readily available in the province.
“We have the human resource, good climatic conditions, abundant water, and arable land and other than that we are strategically located. And moreover, we have also strengthened our cooperation at bilateral level with our colleagues from the DRC and Angola whom through our various engagements have continually expressed their need for support with food commodities from Zambia.
“So today, you are making us feel greatly honoured through this gesture and donation you are giving us. We can certainly assure you that it will be put to very good use,” the minister said. – Courtesy of SUMA SYSTEMS.
Striker Rodgers Mukenge has bemoaned Kitwe United’s relegation from the FAZ Super Division.
The Buchi Boys went down after finishing second bottom in Stream A of the 2019 transitional Super Division season with 11 points from 18 matches.
In an interview, Mukenge said inexperience was one of the factors leading to Chingalika’s demotion.
“It is painful to be relegated. We didn’t perform well as a team,” Mukenge said.
“We were conceding many goals and creating many chances but failing to convert. When you concede a lot of goals like we did you can be punished,” he said.
Kitwe returned to the top league at the end of the 2017 season after spending a decade in Division One.
“We also lacked a bit of experience in the team a situation that never helped as we wanted to survive relegation. But there is nothing much we can do we just need to focus on playing the National League,” Mukenge said.
The former Lumwana Radiants forward has hinted he is staying at Garden Park ahead of the 2018/19 season starting in August.
“I have a contract with Kitwe United. I have to finish my contract with Kitwe United. You never know what happens but for now my focus is playing for Kitwe,” Mukenge said.
He scored three goals in the transitional league campaign.
Very interesting!Received, thank you.Thanks a lot.
Zambia Railways workers in action during the commencement of the truck rehabilitation programme in Livingstone
Zambia Railways says it is in the market seeking US$922 million capitalization for its 5 year rehabilitation plan.
Zambia Railways Chief Executive Officer Christopher Musonda revealed in an interview with Railways Africa that this part of the five year strategic plan which has since been approved.
Mr. Musonda said the firm is in talks with financiers for the proposed five-year business plan which includes a USD$922 million capital injection, for existing operations.
He said he could not name the financiers as talks were currently underway.
He also outlined the upcoming procurement of 40 new locomotives and 2000 specialised wagons, under the rehabilitation plan.
He said so far, ZR have leased 12 locomotives from Transnet of South Africa to help achieve the targets of moving 30 percent of cargo from road to rail in line with the new Statutory Instrument.
Mr Musonda also noted that the passing of the SI on movement of heavy cargo ha seen a jump in tonnage by 25 percent and a 22% rise in revenue.
The CEO further revealed that Zambia Railways currently employs about 1,000 direct employees and around 300 contractors, making its staffing levels one of the highest.
He said there is need to increase production given the high number of workers employed by the company.
Mr. Musonda stated that the feasibility studies that will soon be underway will inform the firm on how the financiers will recoup their investment.
Seasoned Banker James Kapesa has been appointed as Director General of the newly constituted National Health Insurance Management Authority.
The Authority will be responsible for the day today management of the K1.2 billion per year Health Insurance Fund which the Zambian government hopes will drive the country’s Universal Health Coverage agenda.
From this month end, civil servants will start contributing 1% of their salaries monthly while the employer will also contribute another 1% in a pilot that will later be extended to the rest of the formal sector and eventually to those in the private sector.
Before his appointment, Mr Kapesa led the National Health Insurance Scheme Implementation Team for the last four months.
Mr Kapesa also served as Head of Corporate and Retail Banking at Investrust Bank Plc before quitting and becoming a Consultant.
And Mr Kapesa has clarified that contributions to the National Health Insurance Scheme are mandatory to all Zambians above 18 years and below 65 years.
“This means that all those in gainful employment, civil servants, formal private sector employees and employers are included. The Authority, working with other stakeholders, has also designed a way to capture those in the informal sector to the extent possible,” he wrote on Facebook.
“By setting up the Authority, a body corporate with separate legal identity, accountability, transparency and probity are assured. At a deeper level, the Authority steps into the shoes of a “Special Purpose Vehicle” specially built away from the mainline ministry to focus on the “intended” and only one purpose.”
He added, “In addition to the safeguards in legislation, the governance systems; the board, management interplays is critical. But even more assuring is that the public is becoming more and more alert, now more than ever, interested in matters of national interest demanding more accountability. The project will thus profit from hightened public interest.”
The National Health Insurance Scheme is a Health financing system that is designed to pool funds to provide access to quality affordable personal health services for all Zambians based on their health needs, irrespective of their socio-economic status.
Opposition leader Hakainde Hichilema has charged that the continued closure of the Copperbelt University (CBU) should equally be ranked as one of the biggest scandals and legacy of the PF regime alongside the looting of public resources and running down the economy.
Mr Hichilema said it is irresponsibility of the highest order for a regime that ascended to power on a platform of caring for the youth and the vulnerable, to treat the young people whose future Zambia depends on, in this manner.
“Even worse, the majority of our citizens, particularly the youth, are roaming the streets without jobs, while on the other hand, you deny them lifelong skills to acquire university education by withdrawing student aid and shutting down learning institutions,” Mr Hichilema said.
“As national leaders, we need morality and consciousness in the way we conduct ourselves, so that we don’t buy customised private jets with state resources at the expense of spending money on our young people, through education and job opportunities,” he said.
Mulibwanji, nakulandilani. My wife Claudia, son Danny, my Embassy colleagues, and I extend our warmest welcome to you, as we observe the 243rd anniversary of the independence of the United States of America.
The United States and Zambia share values, ideals, and dreams for our people. My country has long been Zambia’s top bilateral donor by a large margin, through direct, non-debt assistance, which comes at no cost—ZERO, ever—to the Zambian people. Our partnership has transformed your health sector, most notably saving the lives of over a million of our HIV-affected brothers and sisters. The $500 million per year we provide touches millions more through development, education, youth and exchange programs, conservation, our work to attract investment, and in many other areas. And that doesn’t count the exceptional impact by scores of private American philanthropic organizations.
Let me admit that U.S. democracy and government are far from perfect. We constantly experience challenges and difficulties, but we are strengthened by differing viewpoints. We will not impose our values, but we will encourage aspiring partners to strengthen their sovereignty, and realize the benefits of free markets and individual liberty. Since arriving in your beautiful Republic, I have always said that my job is not to tell Zambia what to do or how to do it. I believe my government’s work is to identify mutual interests with Zambia, and join forces with your government, people, and cooperating friends to work toward our shared goals. But partnerships must go both ways.
Once upon a time, a wise father, tired of his seven sons not working together, summoned the boys. He showed them a bundle of seven spears wrapped together with string, and commanded, “Break them.” Each son tried by himself, straining and straining, but none were able to break the bundle. “Untie the bundle,” said the father, “and each of you take a spear.” When they had done so, he called out to them: “Now, break,” and each spear was easily broken when they worked TOGETHER.
My message today: “A stronger Zambia-U.S. partnership—TOGETHER—means a better Zambia!”
During my time here, I’ve come to see that the impact of American support to your people could be greatly enhanced by a much stronger, reciprocal commitment by the Zambian government to our relationship. By deepening, and better enabling, not just Zambia’s, but also America’s hopes for our partnership, I am certain that TOGETHER, by promoting our shared values and goals, we can markedly boost Zambia’s progress, to our mutual benefit.
I’ve been blessed to visit all 10 Zambian provinces. I have talked with people across the country, from all backgrounds, classes, and political affiliations. We’ve discussed their needs, challenges, fears, opportunities, and frustrations. I’ve found that despite our differences, we are extremely similar in our humanity, and we are frustrated when our voices go unheard. Please allow me to share some universal desires expressed by my Zambian friends, and a few ideas for progress toward each, which coincidentally align closely with American beliefs.
We all want good governance that effectively utilizes resources and improves the lives of our families.
As I watch Zambia’s reputation as a strong democracy slip in international reporting, I fear it’s partly driven by divisive politics and a sub-optimal focus on the welfare of the Zambian people. Zambians tell me they are sick of the political-party cadres, corruption, and the daily political attacks—from all sides. I would say this regardless of who is in power; the United States supports no political party over any other. We do firmly support the will of Zambian citizens expressed through free, fair, and transparent democratic processes.
Idea: Zambia’s people want politicians and leaders to be more responsive to the needs of all citizens, and to focus less on constant “campaigning,” and the narrow political and economic interests of connected individuals. We all want our governments to be transparent and accountable.
People can’t freely participate when governments are not open about their affairs. Non-transparent contracting and debt acquisition are imposing problematic debt, fueling corruption, and limiting the options for citizens to determine their futures. Zambia has every right to maintain diplomatic and commercial relationships with any country. Many Zambians believe, however, that their country should be careful about becoming beholden to autocratic nations that act chiefly in their own interests, limit fundamental freedoms and human rights, censor information available to their people, persecute religious minorities, and muzzle the media in their own countries. Also, we are all aware of instances of budgeted funds, not to mention donor assistance, diverted for corrupt personal or political use.
Idea: By providing citizens better access to government dealings, such as by enacting the Freedom of Information bill, by publishing debt and procurement arrangements, and by requiring and disclosing reports on the assets of government officials, Zambia could significantly mitigate corruption and improve trust.
We all want economic prosperity and better opportunities for our children and ourselves.
To that end, I constantly receive requests to help attract more American money to Zambia. To invest, American businesses require stability, predictability, and a clean, level playing field. They face grave U.S. legal consequences for “donations,” or bribery, to expedite deals, often creating competitive disadvantages. Zambia could be a world leader in tourism, largely through conservation investment. But right now, you’re losing the key to that touristic expansion to poaching—of your natural endowment of elephants, lions, lechwes, etc.—and the reported complicity of a few bad officials from the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) stains DNPW’s name. American and international conservation investors, with tens to hundreds of millions of dollars, and major community development plans, at the ready, are regularly met by ever-changing requirements, unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, stall tactics, and worse, at every step.
Idea: Zambia could better attract American investors by creating a more business-friendly climate, minimizing corruption, offering incentives, and establishing stable tax regimes that enable investors to adequately plan and profit from their risk.
Idea: Without sufficient political commitment, resources, and effective DNPW leadership and partnerships, many of Zambia’s iconic species face rapid extinction, which would cripple the key economic-growth pillar of increased tourism.
Everyone wants to enjoy universal human rights and freedoms.
Some of our fundamental rights, freedoms, and individual choices include speech, press, assembly, religion, opinion, and lifestyle. Disinformation has been around as long as human society, but fair, mature societies accept that free speech protects the vast majority of expression and strengthens democracy. While I admit that the term “fake news” probably originated in the United States, using that as an excuse to suppress or persecute individuals and media organizations for expressing dissenting opinions goes against both our countries’ constitutions and ideals.
Idea: All democracies should remember that we must withstand criticism and accusations, which are best refuted through positive words and actions, rather than unproductive attacks, harassment, censure, or imprisonment.
As I said before, “A stronger Zambia-U.S. partnership—TOGETHER—means a better Zambia!”
I believe you have a saying in Nyanja to help me express that thought: Chala chimodzi sichitola nsabwe. For us non-Nyanja speakers…“One finger cannot pick lice.” TOGETHER, we accomplish much more.
Zikomo kwambiri! Thank you very much!
TOAST
To the good health and long life of His Excellency President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, to the United States of America, and to Zambia. May the friendship and partnership between our nations continue to grow.
Remarks by U.S. Ambassador Daniel L. Foote Independence Day Reception U.S. Chief of Mission’s Residence, Lusaka, Zambia
United Party for National Development (UPND) National Chairperson Mutale Nalumango
United Party for National Development (UPND) National Chairperson Mutale Nalumango has said that the ruling Patriotic Front (PF) must respond to the concerns raised by America Ambassador to Zambia Daniel L. Foote, about status of governance.
During the observance of he 243rd anniversary of the independence of the United States of America, the US Ambassador said that everybody wanted good governance that effectively utilizes resources and improves the lives of families, before going on to say that Zambia’s reputation as a strong democracy in international reporting has slipped, partly driven by divisive politics and a sub-optimal focus on the welfare of the Zambian people.
In a statement released to the media, the UPND National Chairperson said that the issues pointed out by the US Ambassador are of serious nature and hence demand a public response from the ruling party.
Below is the full statement
We wish to express our deepest apprehension that the PF Government has up to now failed to respond to serious concerns raised by His Excellency Daniel L. Foote, the United States of American Ambassador to Zambia regarding the status of governance in this country.
In his public remarks made during the commemoration of the United States of America’s 243rd independence anniversary, Ambassador Foote was candid and sincere in his pronouncements when he unequivocally appealed to the ruling party to address certain issues of concern currently negatively affecting Zambia’s governance system.
The issues pointed out by the Ambassador are of serious nature and hence demand a public response as they were made publicly, not behind closed doors. It is therefore imperative that Government reciprocates by addressing these matters through the same method, so that citizens are well informed on government’s position with regard to the American Diplomat’s sentiments.
The fact that there was a Cabinet Minister who officiated on behalf of the State doesn’t absolve government from stating its position on these serious observations raised by the United States through its representative in this country.
For the record we will refresh the mind of Government on concerns raised by His Excellency Ambassador Foote who went on an interactive tour to all the ten provinces of Zambia.
1. Zambia’s reputation as a strong democracy has slipped because of divisive politics.
2. Zambians are sick of political party cadres and corruption.
3. Zambians want government to focus less on unending campaigning but instead be responsive to the needs of all citizens
4. Zambians want government to be transparent and accountable on debt contracting and acquisition to curtail corruption by ‘politically connected individuals’ (PCI)
5. Citizens want the speedy enactment of the Freedom of Information bill that will make it possible to publish debt and procurement arrangements.
6. Zambians want disclosure of assets of government officials to mitigate corruption and improve trust.
7. Zambians wants government not to use excuse of “fake news” to suppress or persecute individuals and media organizations for expressing dissenting views.
The matters raised by His Excellency Foote is what the UPND has been stating for a long time but our counterparts in government were saying we were bitter and jealous of them.
We doubt whether the American Ambassador has any reason of being bitter and jealous of our friends in government and yet he has expressed the same things we have stated over and over again. We therefore challenge the PF government to respond with a well laid out statement and not a silly tweet coming from Dora Siliya. Zambians have the right to be correctly informed.
Minister of Tourism and Arts Charles Banda says a Spanish Chamber of Commerce delegation is expected in the country on July 8th 2019 to explore areas of investment in tourism.
Speaking when Spanish Council honorary representative to Zambia Ramon Diaz Bustamante paid a courtesy call on him at his office this morning, the Minister said the team is scheduled to hold meetings with Zambia Chamber of Commerce.
He said if there would be another opportunity for more business people from Spain sponsored by the Spanish Government coming to Zambia, the country will cease the opportunity to tap into that market to grow tourism.
And Mr. Bustamante said the Spanish are very interested in growing their relationships with Zambia.
He said future plans are to bring to the high level delegation of directors from the Spanish National Parks to come and know how Zambian National Parks are run.
Mr. Bustamante said his country being one of the leading tourism source markets in the world brings to the fore a wealth of experience that could be beneficial to Zambia.
He said the exchange program will also involve the training of directors from the Department of National Parks-Zambia on best procedures used in Spain.
This is contained in a statement issued to the media by Sakabilo Kalembwe, the Ministry of Tourism and Arts Public Relations Officer.
Ministry of Water Development and Sanitation Permanent Secretary Bishop Ed Chomba signing the MOU whilst Water Aid Acting Director Bwembya Chanda looks on
The Ndola City Council has been instructed by the Ministry of Water Development, Sanitation and Environmental Protection to stop all activity including the erection of structures in close proximity to water bodies.
Following up on a letter addressed to Town Clerks, Ndola and Kitwe dated 5th June, 2019 that instructed the Council and relevant institutions to cancel or withdraw all titles and offer letters issued in close proximity to said water bodies as well as ensure all erected structures are removed, Water Development Permanent Secretary Dr. Ed Chomba today visited the Council for an update.
In a meeting with Ndola City Council, Ministry of Lands, Kafubu Water and Water Resources Management Bishop Chomba called for stringent action on the encroached land noting that the growing trend by a number of people developing residential and business properties in close proximity to banks of various water bodies would cause them to dry up or pollute them through the discharge of untreated sewage.
Dr. Chomba observed that if people along the banks had legal papers responsible officers who authorized the procurement of such papers need to be charged even if they may have left government or have been transferred.
He said inaction from all relevant authorities is not only an abrogation of the law but a danger to human life in view of contamination as well as Climate Change.
Dr. Chomba said as rain Season close approached Ndola and the rest of Zambia risked recording more Cholera case if the vices are not stopped.
He went on to challenge that if occupants claimed to have ‘title’ they should show their building permits and whether planning permission was granted.
And in response Ndola Mayor Amon Chisenga revealed that people building were given a 28 day ultimatum to provide not only offer letters/title deeds but also building permission.
Dr. Chomba also pointed out that the gardening also along the Kafubu River needed to be looked into before embarking on a tour of the aforementioned places.
This is according to a statement issued to the media by Ndola City Council Public Relations Manager Tilyenji Mwanza.
Four officers from the livestock department have been suspended in connection with the illegal movement of cattle in Itezhi Tezhi district.
Central Province Permanent Secretary Bernard Chomba has said that his office has also recommended for the suspension of traffic officers for clearing the vehicles involved.
He said that it was sad that some officers are working against government programme to eradicate animal diseases.
Mr. Chomba said that investigations are underway and those who will be found wanting will face the law.
He told ZNBC news in Mumbwa that there was need for civil servants to prevent the illegal movement of livestock in order to fight animal diseases.
Meanwhile, a combined team of veterinary officers and Zambia Police has impounded three trucks in Mumbwa district – Central province carrying about 100 cattle suspected to have Foot and Mouth disease (FMD).
The cattle are worth about 500,000 Kwacha
Speaking to ZANIS in Mumbwa, Fisheries and Livestock Permanent Secretary David Shamulenge confirmed that one truck containing 74 cattle moving from Itezhi Tezhi district to Mumbwa was impounded by police at Nalusanga check point.
Dr. Shamulenge revealed that the other two trucks had six and nine cattle originating from Nalubanda and Nambwa areas.
The cattle are suspected to have been sourced from Namwala district and are affected by FMD.
Dr. Shamulenge disclosed that government has spent over 30 million kwacha on the fight against FMD.
He has since appealed to Livestock cooperative associations and other stakeholders to partner with government in sensitizing livestock farmers on the dangers of illegal stock movement.
And Central Province Permanent secretary Benard Chomba confirmed the arrest of four officers including a driver from the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock to assist with investigations over the matter.
Mr. Chomba cautioned Fisheries and Livestock officers in the province to desist from such illegal activities as it will cost their jobs.
Minister of Health Chitalu Chilufya says intensified public health surveillance systems at the borders, in the wake of the Ebola and measles outbreak in the neighboring DRC, is the sure way to avoid the spread of the diseases to Zambia.
Speaking to health workers during the handover of an ambulance and a utility vehicle at Katuta health post in Lupososhi, Dr. Chilufya says 90,000 cases have been recorded with 1,500 deaths recorded since the outbreak of Measles in the DRC.
Dr. Chilufya said government has trained rapid responders who have started going round working with health workers from different parts of the country to sensitize and screen people entering the country.
He said health personnel should be on high alert in-light of the outbreak.
And Chief Katuta thanked government for its continued support to his subjects in the health sector.
He said the bringing of an ambulance will lessen the burden of resources spent to ferry patients
FILE: President Edgar Lungu chats with Mr Joseph Daka Maize Seed farmer of Mkushi farming Block during the Tours of Mkushi farms
President Edgar Lungu says time has come for Zambia to transform the agriculture sector for the benefit of the people.
President Lungu has noted that Zambia has potential not just to feed its people through the agricultural sector but Africa as a whole.
The Head of State has further stated that there is need to take pragmatic action to realise this potential and the only time that can be done is now.
He was speaking in Mumbwa today when he officiated at the National Harvest Day held at Mabeba farm.
And President Lungu has implored the Ministry of Agriculture and the Zambia National Farmers Union to ensure that farmers grow enough maize by suggesting a target of 5 million metric tonnes of maize production next year.
The Head of State said he is happy that farmers will this year start receiving their inputs as early as September which will give farmers time to undertake their agricultural activities.
He said early delivery of inputs coupled with detailed information on climate smart agriculture will contribute towards adequate agriculture production.
Meanwhile, President Lungu has noted that it is important to use events such as the national harvest day to reflect on what should be done to improve the agriculture sector in the country.
The President indicated that from what has been witnessed at Mababe farm in Mumbwa, it is clear that climate smart agriculture is the solution to good harvests despite the droughts and that farmers need information on best practices to mitigate climate change effects.
President Lungu has further reiterated his directive to ensure that the maize prices are fair enough to cover the cost of maize and allow farmers to make decent profit.
And Minister of Agriculture, Michael Katambo, noted that the early distribution of inputs will enable farmers plant on time and have better yields.
Mr Katambo stated that currently the crop yield is at 1.2 metric tonnes and has encouraged farmers to adopt good agriculture practices to increase the yield.
He added that his ministry has continued to engage the Ministry of Finance to clear outstanding debt owed to Agro dealers across the country and that mechanisms are being put in place to ensure they are paid on time during the 2019/2020 farming season.
Meanwhile, Mumbwa District Farmers Association Chairperson, Austin Sinyachize, noted that the district is highly dependant on agriculture to sustain and improve the livelihoods of the people.
Mr Sinyachize said it is important for farmers to embrace new farming technologies to help government achieve competitive and sustainable agriculture that will contribute to economic growth of the country.
And Wisdom Mababe, the owner of the farm, said the harvest witnessed today has been as a result of understanding the effects of climate change coupled with the effective implementation of mitigation measures.
Mr Mababe noted that he planted maize during the drought that affected the Southern Part of the country including Mumbwa district.
He has since noted that it is important that farmers take interest in knowing and understanding the effects of climate change to enable them harvest enough crop without challenges.
