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Cholera vaccines withdrawn

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Cholera vaccines withdrawn

Minister of Health Sylvia Masebo has disclosed that about 16,000 doses of some cholera vaccines have been withdrawn from areas where the refusal rates were high to other needy hotspot areas.

Speaking during a cholera update in Lusaka, Ms Masebo stated that 1,888,112 individuals in hotspot areas have been vaccinated, including 3,793 healthcare workers and 3,634 people in correctional facilities.

Ms Masebo said the vaccine coverage now stands at 99%.
Ms Masebo revealed that in the last 24 hours, the country has recorded 208 cases of cholera with three deaths.

She added that a total of 248 people are in admission and 248 individuals have been discharged nationwide, signifying improvements in the interventions.
The Health Minister noted that the current cholera outbreak has exposed the need to manage the social and environmental determinants that have fueled the outbreak.

She indicated that the government has done everything possible to ensure that cholera is controlled.Ms Masebo said with support from stakeholders and partners, the government has put in place the necessary interventions which are working as seen by the drop in numbers.

Meanwhile, stakeholders have continued showing solidarity towards the cause with the Food and Nutrition Commission assisting with 500 units of sour milk and a diet for recovering patients, and Salam Life Insurance Zambia donating K100 thousand kwacha worth of finance and goods.

Others were Action Against Hunger Zambia that gave food for Pediatric patients, Lusaka Telecom Solutions, UK Zambia Fund among other individuals.

Is China delaying Zambia Debt Restructuring Deal? An Independent Analysis

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Is China delaying Zambia Debt Restructuring Deal? An Independent Analysis

By Mwansa Chalwe Snr

The status of Zambia’s debt restructuring talks must be confusing to ordinary Zambians as they have been blowing hot and cold. And it is for this reason that it is important that the public is educated about the stage that the talks have reached, and to make a determination as to who could be responsible for the delay in the deal. It seems unclear in people’s minds at the moment.

There is no doubt that the long standing cause of the delay in Zambia debt relief deal is mainly the complex composition of creditors. According to the Financial Times of London: “Zambia’s Debt is complex, with a mix of official creditors – the largest being the Export-Import Bank of China with over $4billion owed, – another $3.85billion in Eurobond claims, and about $3.5Bn owed to Commercial Banks, including large Chinese state Banks. There is also $2.7Bn in non-resident holding of local currency bonds, excluded from the restructuring but counted as external debt by the IMF”.

However, there are two latest stumbling blocks that the public should know about as being responsible the Debt restructuring stalemate, which need to be resolved. The first is the delay in signing the Memorandum of Understanding (Mou) agreed in October,2023 by all Official Creditors. The Zambia government has stated that 98% of them have signed. The second issue is the impasse regarding the rejection by Official Creditors of the proposal by Private Creditors. There is a need to analyse these issues critically in order to establish who is possibly responsible for the delay, and how Zambia should strategise to resolve the issue.

Memorandum of Understanding not yet signed.

In October,2023, Zambia struck a debt deal with bilateral creditors to restructure US$6.3 billion in loans. Under the deal, China has the biggest burden and agreed to restructure US$4.1 billion of the total, with France, Britain, South Africa, Israel and India taking up the rest. The Ministry of Finance and Planning released a statement to that effect at the time.

“The Ministry of Finance and National Planning of the Republic of Zambia is pleased to announce that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been agreed with its Official Creditor Committee (OCC) on the comprehensive debt treatment agreed in June 2023. The MoU formalises the agreement reached in June with official creditors and represents an important milestone in Zambia achieving long-term debt sustainability. Each official creditor will now begin their internal process to sign the MoU”, The Ministry of finance and Planning statement stated.

Zambia expected that by now, each official creditor would have signed the MOU. It is now crystal clear that not all the Parties have signed that important agreement yet, as President Hakainde Hichilema recently disclosed when addressing Diplomats, and asking for their help.

“So, this year, your excellencies, we ask you to continue the journey on helping Zambia to put to bed the Zambia debt restructuring project which I mentioned earlier. Where one or two official creditors that are yet to sign. Please work with us to get those signed up. We can then focus on the private creditors”, President HH addressing Diplomats accredited to Zambia during the annual greeting of the diplomatic corps, Friday 26th January,2024.

In the past, China had been accused of delaying Zambia’s Debt deal by the United States and the World bank through its various demands. The former President of the World Bank, David Malpass, was one of the most outspoken critics of China.

“China is asking lots of questions in the Creditors’ Committees, and that causes delays, that strings out the process,” he said in an interview with Bloomberg News. “It’s important for them to be focused on getting to an actual debt restructuring where the burden can be lightened for Zambia.

On the basis of circumstantial evidence from the past, therefore, the only nation of consequence that can hold back from not signing the MOU, until it is perfectly happy, is China. This is so because it is the largest bilateral creditor of Zambia, whose signature is a must, for the G20 Common Framework to work.

Official Creditors and Bondholders at Loggerheads

Zambia’s debt restructuring deal has also been delayed by negotiations with Bondholders. At the end of October,2022, Zambia and Bondholders reached an Agreement in Principle (AIP) on restructuring $3 billion of its international bonds with a key creditor group.

But when government presented the Agreement in Principle (AIP ) to the Official Creditors Committee, they and the IMF rejected it, because it did not meet IMF parameters and failed the Comparability of Treatment test by the OCC due to a shorter extension of the duration and lower contribution to the closing of the balance of payment financing gap during the IMF program period.

Zambia went back to Bondholders for reworking the deal but again it was rejected by Official Creditors. Zambia and the IMF, however, viewed the revised deal as sustainable and compatible with the Comparability of Treatment (CoT) principle, but China and other official bilateral creditors want bondholders to take a larger haircut than what Zambia’s government or the IMF deemed necessary.

The Bondholders were livid by the rejection of the deal by Official Creditors Committee, complaining that they had no right to reject a deal that they had agreed with Zambia.

“This is an extraordinary position to take and will have significant adverse consequences, most immediately for Zambia,” said the committee. “It was not for official bilateral creditors to dictate debt terms to other creditors in circumstances where the government has confirmed comparability of treatment.”

Bondholders’ offer involved the reduction in total debt owed to Zambia (haircuts) in return for being repaid a higher proportion of the remaining debt earlier than Official Creditors. And haircuts are not part of the criteria listed in the G20 Common Framework to assess comparability. And in totality, Bondholders were to give Zambia 18% discount on the loans, whereas the Official Creditors had agreed to 40%.

According to London Financial Times: “China isn’t keen to subsidize private bondholders which it considers have gotten too sweet deals in the past (Private creditors notably did not participate in the 2020 Debt Service Suspension Initiative)”.

Critics of Bondholders have also accused them of not taking similar losses to Official Creditors. And according to the analysis done by Debt Justice and the Zambian Civil Society Debt Alliance,under the latest deal with Bondholders, they will be paid 73 Cents for every $1 they lent originally, whereas official Creditors like China and UK, will be repaid 55 cents by Zambia, when Bondholders had lent at higher interest rates.

According to the UK based Debt Justice’s, Executive Director Heidi Chow, it is this disparity of treatment between private and government creditors which highlights the fact that the deal does not meet the requirements of the G20 Common Framework.

“Bondholders lent at higher interest rates due to the risk involved, so they should take the hit when that risk materialises. Irresponsible lenders are effectively being bailed out with public money. The UK and New York urgently need to pass legislation to make private creditors take their fair share of responsibility when it comes to debt restructurings,” she said.

It is, therefore, fair to say that Private Creditors are a major contributor to the delay in concluding the restructuring deal for Zambia due their greedy terms which are not part of the G20 Framework.

The reality today is that Zambia’s debt restructuring deal has reached a stalemate. And only China can break the deadlock.

How Zambia can unlock Debt Relief deal through China

In order to unlock the debt deal, Zambia needs to pursue a two pronged and parallel strategy– technical and diplomatic. This entails continued talks with Bondholders on the technical aspects of the restructuring deal, with a view to narrow the comparability gap with Official Creditors. At the same time, Zambia should vigorously pursue the diplomatic route by engaging the Chinese government bilaterally so that they can authorize the Policy Banks to revised offers by Bondholders.

History has proved that quiet diplomacy is what produces quick results when dealing with the Chinese. There are several cases in point that proves this assertion. When China was reluctant to join the G20 Official Creditors Committee (OCC) in 2022, and resisted for over six months, because it believed that friendly bilateral cooperation is the best way to deal with debt between friends, it had to take a direct phone call from Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on 31 May, 2022 to the Chinese President Xi Jinping to unlock the stalemate.

And when both Ghana and Sri Lanka were facing almost impossible situation with talks on debt with China, in order to qualify for the IMF programme, it had to take their Finance Ministers, Foreign Ministers and Vice President of Sri Lanka to travel to Beijing to get the deal within a very short period of time.

It is vitally important that Zambia appoints a substantive foreign Minister. He and the finance minister should take a trip to Beijing, accompanied by a seasoned senior citizen who is a diplomat of the past, to go and lobby for Zambia’s case. Physical meetings, in their backyard, is how you get important deals consummated with the Chinese.The trip should be done quietly with no publicity, as China prefers doing diplomatic negotiations quietly, as last year’s Iran-Saudi Arabia reconciliation deal, which they brokered proved. In addition, when dealing with China, seniority matter, and so sending technocrats, as was the case recently, is unlikely to produce the desired results.

Zambia has got a very good justification for the proposed diplomatic mission. It can be argued that the

engagement is meant to implement one of the agreements between President Xi and President Hichilema as per their joint statement when establishing the Comprehensive Strategic and Cooperative Partnership in September,2023.

“The two sides noted that the year 2024 marks Zambia’s 60th anniversary of independence as well as the 60th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic ties. The commemoration should be an opportunity to bring into full play the political leading role of the head-of-state diplomacy, keep the momentum of high-level exchanges and dialogue, enhance political mutual trust and consolidate the political foundation for the bilateral relations. The two sides stressed that mutual respect, equality and common development are important principles of China-Zambia relations,” The Joint Statement of the two Heads of State said.

In addition to the above, Zambia should also plead with the Chinese leadership about the human impact that the delay is having on the population which is even worse than the Cholera that China is helping Zambia with. China should be asked to consider the human impact the delay is having on the Population as the Zambian Daily Mail recently reported on what Faides Tembatemba said on the impact of delayed debt restructuring.

“Ms Tembatemba said most of the discussions are centred on economic fundamentals, ignoring the impact on the well-being of people. Faides Tembatemba from the Civil Society for Poverty Reduction said there is need to add a human face to the impact of Zambia’s debt burden”, The Paper reported on the occasion of the Public Forum on the implication of delayed restructuring of Zambia’s Debt.

Zambia has been negotiating with Chinese Commercial Creditors, Policy banks like Bank of China, China Development Bank and Exim Bank of China. And these same institutions have big Chinese Clients operating in Zambia who may be owed money by the Zambian Government. And if these have not been paid by Zambia to enable them to liquidate their loans with the above Chinese Financial institutions, this could have contributed to the delayed restructuring deal with Chinese Commercial and Policy banks. There may be a need to make assurances to pay those, so they are not disadvantaged by Bondholders. Zambia should not be naive as not to understand the interconnections between the Chinese Policy Banks, Chinese State-owned Enterprises, Contractors and businesses operating in Zambia and the Debt restructuring talks.

CONCLUSION

On the basis of objective analysis done on the stalemate, if Zambia follows the proposed strategy in this article, China will certainly consent to Zambia’s deal with bondholders and sign the MOU within a week or at least this month. This assertion is based on the knowledge acquired from following the debt rivalry between China one hand, and Bondholders and the West on the other from 2019, on which an entire book was written.

In general, when one analyses the Zambia’s debt Restructuring deal and G20 Framework talks, there is no doubt that China has been the major winner, as it got almost all the concessions that it demanded. This includes the fact that Debtor countries will have to engage in Bilateral talks with the Creditors even after signing the Official Creditors Committee MOU which is non-binding. So, it is not a big ask for it to agree and help Zambia conclude the deal. Diplomacy is the answer at this stage.

The Chinese Ambassador His Excellency Du Xiaohui recently wrote an article which was headlined: “ Working together in times of Crisis” based on the cholera crisis. China should not end with the cholera assistance but extend helping Zambia to conclude the Debt Restructuring Deal. The delay is a crisis which is claiming more lives than even cholera. Chinese concessions to help Zambia in the debt restructuring deal should be the first important milestone achievement in the designation of 2024 as the Year of Business Cooperation, to mark 60 years of ties, by Presidents Xi and Hichilema in their September 2023 communique.


The writer is a Chartered Accountant and Author of “China-West Battleground in Africa: Debt Ridden Zambia”, available on Amazon.com ([email protected])

KoBold Metals Unveils Monumental Copper Discovery in Zambia

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KoBold Metals Unveils Monumental Copper Discovery in Zambia

KoBold Metals, a pioneering exploration company, has revealed the discovery of the largest copper deposits ever recorded in the history of mining in Zambia. Co-Founder Josh Goldman announced that the two-billion-dollar mine project at the Mingomba site will be expedited, with plans for construction to commence earlier than the initially suggested ten-year timeframe.

Mr. Goldman explained that the decision to fast-track the project is in response to the rapidly growing demand for critical metals. He emphasized that the United States and other developed nations are actively seeking alternative sources of copper, cobalt, lithium, and nickel as part of the global shift towards clean energy and electric batteries, all of which are abundant in Zambia.

Speaking at the ongoing Mining Indaba, Mr. Goldman highlighted the exceptional quality of the ore body at Mingomba, standing at approximately five percent. This places it in direct competition with the quality found at the Ivanhoe Mines’ Kakula deposit in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Mfekyi Makayi, KoBold Metals Africa Chief Executive Officer, provided insight into the project’s timeline, suggesting that it could take off as early as 2027. The rapid advancement of the Mingomba project aligns with the urgency to meet the global demand for critical metals, particularly copper.

Zambia’s Finance and National Planning Minister, Situmbeko Musokotwane, who is attending the African Mining Indaba in Cape Town, expressed enthusiasm about the country’s role as a key supplier in the global copper market. He emphasized the need for investment in Zambia’s mining sector, pointing out that by 2040, an additional 9 million tonnes of copper will be required annually to meet global demand. Zambia aims to achieve an annual target of 3 million metric tonnes by 2031.

President Hakainde Hichilema, represented by Minister Musokotwane, echoed the sentiment, urging investors to seize the opportunity in Zambia’s mining sector. The monumental copper discovery at Mingomba has the potential to significantly boost Zambia’s standing in the global mining industry.

As Zambia positions itself as a key player in meeting the escalating demand for critical metals, the fast-tracking of the KoBold Metals project represents a pivotal moment in the nation’s mining history.

IMF Urges Compromise in Zambia’s Debt Restructuring Process

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IMF Urges Compromise in Zambia’s Debt Restructuring Process

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has called for all parties involved in Zambia’s debt restructuring process to reach a compromise as delays continue to hinder progress. Abebe Selassie, the IMF Director for the African Department, expressed frustration over the prolonged negotiations but remains hopeful for a resolution with the Official Creditors Committee.

During a press briefing held at the IMF Headquarters, Mr. Selassie underscored the urgency of concluding the debt restructuring for Zambia. He urged all stakeholders to come together and find a common ground that serves the best interests of the country and its economic recovery.

“The delay in the conclusion of the debt restructuring for Zambia is frustrating,” said Mr. Selassie. “However, we remain optimistic that a decision will be reached with the Official Creditors Committee.”

Highlighting the need for a more systematic approach to debt treatment, Mr. Selassie called for a global sovereign roundtable discussion. He emphasized that a set of guidelines on debt restructuring would provide a standardized framework for countries facing similar challenges.

“There is a need for a global sovereign roundtable discussion that should come up with guidelines on debt treatment,” Mr. Selassie stated. “Currently, there is no particular standard of how countries seeking debt restructuring can be treated, as each country is treated on a case-to-case basis.”

The lack of a standardized approach can lead to inefficiencies and inconsistencies in the debt restructuring process. A global framework, as proposed by Mr. Selassie, could offer a more transparent and equitable solution for countries grappling with debt-related issues.

Wahdat Hussein’s Bail Application Dismissed

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Wahdat Hussein’s Bail Application Dismissed

The Lusaka Magistrate Court has dismissed the bail application filed by Mr. Wahdat Hussein, a Pakistan foreign investor and proprietor of Star Motors. Mr. Hussein is currently in custody after being arrested by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on charges related to the possession of properties deemed to be proceeds of crime.

The bail application was presented before Lusaka Resident Magistrate Trevor Kasanda last week. However, Magistrate Kasanda has ruled against granting bail to Mr. Hussein, citing concerns about the individual being a flight risk. The decision was based on information suggesting that Mr. Hussein is on a wanted persons’ list in South Africa.

Magistrate Kasanda highlighted that Mr. Hussein is allegedly in possession of seven passports. This raised significant concerns about Husseins potential to evade legal proceedings and escape the jurisdiction.

The charges against Mr. Hussein revolve around the alleged possession of seven motor vehicles between January 1, 2021, and January 27, 2024, which are suspected to be proceeds of crime. The Anti-Corruption Commission has been actively investigating the case, and the denial of bail implies that Mr. Hussein will remain in custody as the legal proceedings unfold.

Chipolopolo Coach Avram Grant Denies False Media Reports

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Chipolopolo Coach Avram Grant Denies False Media Reports

Zambia National Team Coach, Avram Grant, has come forward to address and dismiss false media reports circulating in his name, allegedly attacking the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ). Grant, a seasoned coach with 50 years of experience, expressed his commitment to resolving issues through direct communication and discredited any attempts to use his name to create discord between himself, FAZ, and the Zambian people.

In a statement released to the media, Coach Grant clarified, “I have been made aware of statements circulating in my name purportedly attacking the Football Association of Zambia. In my 50 years of coaching, I have always kept to the practice of airing my grievances with the affected parties face to face.”

The coach strongly emphasized that he has not made any statements to the media and refuted the alleged remarks attributed to him. Grant highlighted his long-standing principle of not speaking through third parties, stating, “It has never happened in 50 years of coaching that I speak through third parties and it is not about to start.”

Grant went on to assure the public and football enthusiasts that the relationship between him and FAZ, as well as with the Zambian people, remains positive. He pointed out that the post-tournament discussions with FAZ were conducted in a cordial and respectful manner, reflecting a progressive and constructive dialogue.

The statement was signed by Avram Grant, reaffirming his position as the Zambia National Team Coach.

Given Lubinda calls for national unity

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Given Lubinda calls for national unity

Patriotic Front (PF) Vice President Given Lubinda has challenged fellow politicians to foster national unity by co-existing.

Mr. Lubinda said Zambians should not be divided on political lines.

He was speaking during the burial of Mrs. Charity Ng’ambi, the wife of PF Central Committee Member Frank Ng’ambi at Kansenshi Cemetery in Ndola.

Ministry of Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana attended the funeral.

“Thabo (Kawana), I would like to say to you. Many times when we have funerals they are turned into either UPND or PF funerals. This must come to an end, we out to be ‘One Zambia One Nation’,” Mr. Lubinda told mourners.

“In passing and when we meet our Lord, He won’t ask us which political party we belonged to. Rather He will ask what you did for the least of my brothers and sisters. I would like to therefore, appeal to all of us my dear fellow politicians, let us make sure that all of us unite so that every Zambian on their passing will say I belonged to one united Zambia,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mr. Lubinda declared that the PF was alive and that people that want to destroy it won’t manage.

Ministry of Information Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana, who attended the burial, conveyed the condolences message from President Hakainde Hichilema.

“His Excellency the President sent me and said go and pass my sincere condolences to Honourable Dr. Frank Ng’ambi and share with them that our thoughts and prayers are with them in this trying moment,” Mr. Kawana said.

King Charles III Diagnosed With Cancer

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King Charles III Diagnosed With Cancer

(BBC) King Charles has been diagnosed with a form of cancer, says Buckingham Palace.

It is not prostate cancer, but was discovered during his recent treatment for an enlarged prostate.

The type of cancer has not been revealed, but according to a palace statement the King began “regular treatments” on Monday.

Buckingham Palace says the King “remains wholly positive about his treatment and looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible”.

He will postpone his public engagements and it is expected other senior royals will help to stand in for him during his treatment.

No further details are being shared on the stage of cancer or a prognosis.

The King, 75, returned to London from Sandringham in Norfolk on Monday morning and the palace says he has commenced treatment as an outpatient.

Although he will pause his public events, the King will continue with his constitutional role as head of state, including paperwork and private meetings.

He was seen at a church service in Sandringham on Sunday, where he waved to crowds.

He had a prostate procedure at a private London hospital more than a week ago.

The King had chosen to go public about his prostate treatment, with the aim of encouraging more men to get prostate checks, the palace said at the time.

He was said to have been delighted to have raised awareness about the issue, with the NHS website reporting a surge in issues about prostate conditions.

For many types of cancer, the chance of getting it increases with age. UK figures suggest, on average each year, more than a third (36%) of new cancer cases were in people aged 75 and over.

Kamanga Salutes Shepolopolo U17’s Victory

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Kamanga Salutes Shepolopolo U17’s Victory

FAZ president Andrew Kamanga has saluted the Zambia Under-17 Girls Team for thrashing Tanzania 5-0 at home in their opening match of the 2024 FIFA World Cup qualifying round.

Zambia overcame Tanzania in the second round, first leg qualifier match played at Nkoloma stadium in Lusaka.

In his weekly column, Kamanga advised the girls to stay focused after the big win.

The return leg will be played on 10 February in Dar es Salaam.

“The girls have another 90 minutes ahead to finish off the job with another round looming. Our message to them is that they should not be complacent but remain focused ahead of the return leg in Tanzania,” Kamanga said.

“The motivation to play at the FIFA World Cup should spur these girls to fight even harder, “he said.

Mining Indaba Opens In South Africa

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Mining Indaba Opens In South Africa

The annual investing in African Mining Indaba has opened in South Africa’s tourism city of Cape town.

Zambia, one of the world’s largest producers of copper and other minerals, is participating at the indaba that has attracted over 8000 attendees, more than 900 investors and global leaders and captains in the mining industry.

Minister of Finance and National Planning Situmbeko Musokotwane, arrived last night in South Africa to represent President Hakainde Hichilema who was scheduled to be the guest speaker at the indaba that has been held for the last 30 years.

Dr Musokotwane is accompanied by the Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Paul Kabuswe, Permanent Secretary, Hapenga Kabeta, Special advisors to the President, Jito Kayumba and Bishop John Mambo among others.

Others are Zambia Development Agency Director, General Albert Halwampa, other senior government officials, and representatives from mining companies and the private sector.

The Zambian delegation was received by Zambia’s High Commissioner to South Africa Mazuba Monze and other embassy staff.

While at the meeting, Dr Musokotwane is expected to hold a series of bilateral and side meetings with potential investors and other cooperating partners.
The indaba will open today, with a Ministerial symposium where Minister of Mines and Minerals Development, Paul Kabuswe is representing the country ahead of the official opening tomorrow February 5, 2024.

The event is aimed at showcasing Africa’s commitment to attracting investment in its mining sector where Heads of State, government representatives and other decision-makers representing the African mining value chain meet to discuss the future of Africa’s mining industry.

This year’s mining Indaba which will run from 5th to 8th 2024 is being held under the theme: Embracing the power of positive disruption, A bold new future for African Mining.

President Hakainde Hichilema Champions Employment for Cholera Volunteers and Cleanliness Campaign

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President Hakainde Hichilema Champions Employment for Cholera Volunteers and Cleanliness Campaign

In a move to recognize the dedicated efforts of volunteers combating the ongoing cholera outbreak, President Hakainde Hichilema has directed the Ministry of Health to employ all individuals rendering their services in cholera centers. The President emphasized that, irrespective of their categories, all volunteers should be formally employed by the government through an organized system.

President Hichilema, who is also the Global Champion of Cholera, made it clear that this directive specifically pertains to volunteers actively engaged in cholera centers. During a visit to the National Cholera Centre at the Heroes Stadium in Lusaka, where he interacted with both patients and healthcare personnel, he reiterated his commitment to eradicating cholera.

Furthermore, President Hichilema directed the Ministry of Local Government, under the leadership of Minister Gary Nkombo, to ensure that every market in the country operates with clean water and sanitation facilities. He also stressed the importance of preventing new unplanned settlements, emphasizing the need for organized urban development.

In a statement released following the visit, President Hichilema called on all citizens to unite in the fight against cholera, urging collective efforts to permanently eradicate the disease. Despite a recent reduction in the number of cholera cases, the President emphasized the ongoing need for a collaborative approach to ensure the country remains cholera-free.

“This afternoon, we took time to visit the cholera centre at Heroes stadium in Lusaka. With concerted efforts, it is gratifying to note that the cholera cases have continued reducing. We remain grateful to all citizens adhering to health calls in combating this disease,” President Hichilema stated.

Expressing gratitude to cooperating partners and acknowledging their continued support, he stated, “May we all ensure that we keep our surroundings, food, and water clean and secure. A life lost as a result of an unsafe environment is painful, and we should not allow such, including unplanned settlements.”

President Hichilema visits patients at the Cholera centre at Heroes stadium in Lusaka.
The Cholera Centre at the Heroes stadium in Lusaka.

Massive Investment Boost Predicted for Zambia’s Mining Sector

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Massive Investment Boost Predicted for Zambia’s Mining Sector

In a significant economic development, Jito Kayumba, the Special Advisor to the President for Economy, Investment, and Development Affairs, announced that increased investments in Zambia’s mining sector are expected to bring about a substantial financial injection. Mr. Kayumba highlighted the projections during a prelude to the 2024 Mining Indaba in Cape Town, South Africa, themed “Embracing the power of positive disposition; a bold new future for African Mining.”

According to Mr. Kayumba, the new investor in Mopani Copper Mine, International Resource Holdings, is set to be a game-changer. The projections indicate a staggering increase in copper production from the current 225,000 metric tonnes to an impressive 600,000 metric tonnes. This surge in production is anticipated to result in a substantial financial influx, estimated at 1.4 billion US dollars.

Speaking on the developments, Mr. Kayumba emphasized the positive impact such investments could have on Zambia’s economy. The mining sector has long been a cornerstone of the country’s economic landscape, and these advancements signal a promising era for growth and development.

Mines Minister

provided additional insights into the government’s plans, disclosing that February 28 is the targeted date for the official handover of both Mopani and Konkola copper mines to their respective investors. He explained that the government is in the final stages of concluding documentation and settling payments with creditors to facilitate the seamless handover process.

On the sidelines of the Mining Indaba in South Africa, Mr. Kabuswe further revealed the government’s commitment to implementing more stringent measures to prevent mine accidents resulting from illegal mining activities. The move reflects the administration’s dedication to ensuring the safety and sustainability of the mining industry.

As Zambia positions itself for increased investment and production in the mining sector, these developments underscore the nation’s determination to foster economic growth, attract international investors, and create a conducive environment for the mining industry’s prosperity.

The 2024 Mining Indaba is expected to provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss and strategize the way forward for African mining, emphasizing collaboration, sustainability, and the positive impact on local economies.

Namibia Mourns the Loss of President Hage G. Geingob

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Namibia Mourns the Loss of President Hage G. Geingob

Namibian President Hage Geingob has died at the age of 82 at a hospital in the capital Windhoek, where he was receiving medical treatment, according to a statement from Acting President Nangolo Mbumba.

In a solemn announcement Acting Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba confirmed the passing of His Excellency Dr. Hage G. Geingob, the President of the Republic of Namibia. President Geingob, aged 82, breathed his last in the early hours of Sunday, February 4, 2024, at Lady Pohamba Hospital in Windhoek.

Surrounded by his devoted wife, Madame Monica Geingos, and his children, President Geingob succumbed to the illness he had been battling, despite the tireless efforts of his medical team. The nation had been updated on his health struggles when he revealed his cancer diagnosis in January, having returned just days ago from a medical trial in the United States.

In a heartfelt message to the nation, Acting President Mbumba expressed the deep sorrow felt by the Namibian people, acknowledging the loss of a distinguished servant, a liberation icon, and the architect of the nation’s constitution. “The Namibian nation has lost a distinguished servant of the people, a liberation struggle icon, the chief architect of our constitution and the pillar of the Namibian house,” Mbumba said.

Calling for calm and collectedness, Mbumba assured the nation that the government would attend to all necessary state arrangements, preparations, and protocols. Cabinet convened immediately to address the urgent matters at hand, and further details regarding the state arrangements will be communicated in due course.

President Hage G. Geingob, who had been in office since 2015 and was serving his second term, held a significant place in the history of Namibia. Beyond his presidential role, he served as the country’s first prime minister from 1990 to 2002 under former President Sam Nujoma, after Namibia gained independence from South Africa.

President Hakainde Hichilema extended his condolences, stating, “We have lost a true friend, a liberation icon, a distinguished diplomat, a senior African Statesman, and an elder brother, and at this time, our thoughts and prayers are with his widow, Madame Monica Geingos and family, the Namibian people, and the entire African Continent.”

Zambia Celebrates Distinguished Senior Citizen Mr. James Mapoma on His 99th Birthday

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Zambia Celebrates Distinguished Senior Citizen Mr. James Mapoma on His 99th Birthday

In a momentous celebration, Zambia extends heartfelt birthday wishes to Mr. James Mapoma, a distinguished senior citizen, as he marks his 99th year of life. Mr. Mapoma’s unwavering dedication and sense of duty, particularly alongside Zambia’s first President, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, have played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of the nation.

President Hakainde Hichilema, conveying his warm regards on this special occasion, acknowledges the remarkable contributions of Mr. James Mapoma to Zambia’s rich history. The President recognizes the indelible impact of Mapoma’s commitment and service, aligning with the vision of the country’s founding leaders.

In his message, President Hichilema expresses, “Wishing him a day filled with joy and all the best on this special occasion.” The acknowledgment from the current President underscores the nation’s gratitude for the enduring legacy and wisdom that Mr. Mapoma has imparted throughout his lifetime.

The celebrations not only mark the longevity of Mr. James Mapoma’s life but also serve as an opportunity for the nation to express gratitude for his invaluable contributions. His role in shaping Zambia’s destiny remains etched in the hearts of the citizens, and the milestone of his 99th birthday is a testament to a life well-lived and a legacy well-established.

Message For Today:It’s with Your Father

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Message For Today:It’s with Your Father

Today’s Scripture

“The father said, ‘Quick, bring me the best robe, my very own robe, and I will place it on his shoulders. Bring the ring, the seal of sonship, and I will put it on his finger. And bring out the best shoes you can find for my son. Let’s prepare a great feast and celebrate.”
Luke 15:22–23, TPT

It’s with Your Father

Friend, the prodigal son returned home filthy dirty with hog manure after wasting his father’s inheritance through wild living. Yet when he returned, today’s Scripture recounts his father’s response. The same is true for us when we’ve gone off course and made a mess of our lives. Despite what you’ve done, God has a robe of honor waiting for you. It’s not in the hog pen; it’s with your Father. He has a family ring that restores all the authority of sonship. It’s not in the hog pen; it’s with your Father. He has the best shoes for you. They’re not in the hog pen; they’re with your Father. He has a fatted calf and feast. They’re not in the hog pen; they’re with your Father.

When you’ve gotten off course, it’s easy to stay in the hog pen condemning yourself when God has a fatted calf out in the field with your name on it. He wants to not just receive you back but restore what’s been lost—your honor, your reputation, your joy. Arise and go to your Father.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that You forgive me, imperfect as I am, and that every mistake I’ve made has already been paid for by Jesus on the cross. Thank You for Your heart of restoring love and mercy for all that I’ve lost or that’s been taken. I believe that You robe me in Your righteousness and favor. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

[Joel Osteen Ministries]

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