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Seeking Answers: Accountability in Zambia’s Gassing Saga

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Seeking Answers: Accountability in Zambia’s Gassing Saga

By Mischeck Kakonde

Zambia’s recent history has been shrouded in a convoluted narrative, a tale woven with elements of
evasive justice, political intricacies, and a labyrinth of unanswered questions. The exoneration of a former presidential advisor Dr Zimba and other implicated individuals, accused in the tragic loss of over 50 lives due to alleged gassing incidents, lays bare the unsettling shadows haunting the nations collective conscience.

The nation bore witness to a saga echoing through its political corridors, leaving citizens perplexed and disheartened. The arrest of the ex-political advisor, purportedly tied to the chaotic gas attacks, carried the weight of governmental assertions and vows of retribution.
However, the passage of time and legal procedures unfurled a different narrative, casting doubt on the allegations against the once-incarcerated political figure. With the acquittal of Dr Zumani Zimba and others accused, a glaring void in accountability emerges, prompting the pressing question: who is genuinely accountable for the tragic gassing incidents that claimed innocent Zambian lives?

The imperative need for truth resonates strongly among the Zambian populace.
The government, swift in leveling accusations, now stands on the brink of accountability. The same
authority that implicated Dr. Zumani Zimba in these serious acts must step into the realm of truth. Zambian citizens, grappling with the aftermath of these harrowing events, demand more than superficial political statements or attempts to placate public sentiment. They clamor for transparency, accountability, and the unmasking of those responsible for these grave state crimes.
Moreover, the revelation that over 50 lives were lost during the gassing episodes demands more than mere acknowledgment. Families shattered by irreparable loss seek not only closure but rightful justice. Hence, the question arises: will the Zambian Attorney General heed the calls for reparation, ensuring that those affected find solace within a justice system that upholds fairness and sanctity? Compensation for the bereaved families, if proven, is a necessity.

Restoring faith in governance and the rule of law necessitates truth, closure, and accountability. Hence, I advocate for an immediate commission of inquiry into this transgression against the Zambian people.Politicians must not merely play to the gallery; the truth regarding the matter, including the names and burial details of the deceased, must be unveiled through this inquiry.
Furthermore, unveiling the names of the victims symbolizes acknowledgment, honoring their memory and reaffirming the pledge to never forget. It should serve as a significant stride towards healing the wounds inflicted on the nation and commemorating those who were tragically taken.

The author is a legal scholar, comparative politics specialist, History and Cultural Studies, expertise in international relations, negotiation, and protocol (ZIDIS). Author of the book “peering into Zambian Cultures, Ceremonies; and contributor in the book “Young Zambia between poverty and abundant resources”. Email: [email protected]

Prosecutors’ Jurisdictional Absence Delays Malanji-Yamba Trial”

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Prosecutors’ Jurisdictional Absence Delays Malanji-Yamba Trial”

The trial of former Foreign Affairs Minister, Joseph Malanji, and former Secretary to the Treasury, Fredson Yamba, faced another delay as prosecutors were reportedly out of jurisdiction. The two officials are jointly charged with corruption and possession of goods deemed to be proceeds of crime.

The matter, brought before Lusaka Resident Magistrate Ireen Washimanga, witnessed State prosecutor Lewis Kandela applying for an adjournment, citing the unavailability of two prosecutors who were out of jurisdiction, with one handling a matter on the Copperbelt. The State sought an adjournment to December 13, 2023.

In response, defense lawyer Jackson Mwamba objected to the application, expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of evidence provided by the prosecutor. Mwamba argued for more details on the prosecutors’ whereabouts, given the seriousness of the matter.

During the court proceeding, lawyer Makebi Zulu echoed concerns about the compelling nature of the reasons for an adjournment, emphasizing the time-consuming nature of repeated delays.

Magistrate Washimanga expressed displeasure with the absence of the two prosecutors and the lack of detailed information about their whereabouts. She emphasized the importance of ensuring the proceedings are conducted efficiently, expressing the view that other prosecutors could attend to the matter.

The case involves charges against Malanji for possession of goods deemed to be proceeds of crime, including a helicopter and the Gibson Royal Hotel in Kitwe. Yamba faces charges related to the alleged transfer of funds to Zambia’s mission account in Turkey for real estate procurement without following applicable laws and procedures.

Magistrate Washimanga adjourned the trial to December 7, 2023, for continuation, as the legal proceedings continue to navigate logistical challenges.

Don’t Politicize the Senseli Tragedy – Dr.Mmembe

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Don’t Politicize the Senseli Tragedy – Dr.Mmembe

Leader of the opposition Socialist Party (SP) Fred M’membe has frowned upon politicking the Senseli mine tragedy that left numerous people trapped.

Featuring on Prime TV’s Oxygen of Democracy yesterday, Dr M’membe shocked the host of the show as he shunned away from politics while commenting on the matter in question.
The host seemingly expected the opposition leader to emulate the stance of other party leaders who have been pointing fingers at government on the tragedy.

Among the many issues raised regarding the matter in question, the politicians in question questioned why President Hakainde Hichilema had opted to stay in Dubai when there was such a tragedy back home.

But in response, Dr M’membe said “I don’t think this is the time to delve into what happened, who is at fault, what went wrong, now our focus is on the recovery of those who have been buried so that there can be a closure for the families. It’s time also to mourn the dead.”
“People are in mourning, people are in grief, pain, I think there will be a time to look at what happened, but not now.”

Dr M’membe said time will come to look at what happened.He said no one should be encouraged to start politicking the matter.

“Ninshita yakulosha ino, and I think let us focus on that. Let’s make it as easy as possible for those who have lost dear ones. Time will come to look at what happened,” he said.
“The focus now is to retrieve the remains, the bodies of those who are perishing in that accident and ensure that you know, they are given a decent burial, and their families are comforted, we mourn with them. It’s a nation in mourning now.”

President Hichilema Urges Calm Among Trapped Miners’ Families, Assures Ongoing Government Support

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President Hichilema Urges Calm Among Trapped Miners’ Families, Assures Ongoing Government Support

In the midst of a grave situation at the Senseli Open-pit mine in Chingola, President Hakainde Hichilema has extended a compassionate plea to the families of approximately 30 miners currently trapped underground. During a meeting at the Chingola Civic Centre, the President urged calm and patience among the affected families, assuring them that the government is exerting every effort to conclude the rescue operation successfully.

President Hichilema, accompanied by government officials, expressed empathy for the families’ distress and urged them not to begin mourning but to focus on prayer, hoping for the safe retrieval of their loved ones. In a gesture of immediate support, the President provided ten thousand Kwacha each to the affected families, acknowledging their endurance and resilience during this challenging period.

Rescue teams at Senseli mine

“Our heartfelt appreciation also goes to the family members who have patiently endured, keeping vigil at the site while awaiting any news about their loved ones. We express our deepest sympathy and understanding of their anguish.The small-scale miners engaged in these activities are our fellow Zambians, whom the UPND government is committed to empowering with mining skills and equipment. This empowerment aims to ensure safe mining practices and prevent tragic accidents.
Fellow citizens, in the face of past tragedies, we have set aside our differences and united, working and praying together as one nation under one God.
Today, we witnessed the industrious and hardworking nature of our people, showcasing their determination to earn a living. Therefore, it is our duty as a government and as a people to harness our human resources by facilitating a secure work environment through stringent safety regulations,” President Hichilema said

A representative of the affected families, Dorothy Kangwa, conveyed gratitude to the government for its support and the initiation of the rescue operation. The President’s visit and personal interaction with the families underscored the government’s commitment to standing in solidarity with those affected by the tragic incident.

In a separate address to the nation, President Hichilema expressed admiration for the dedicated rescue teams working tirelessly to save the trapped miners. His visit to the mine emphasized not only the gravity of the situation but also the government’s dedication to leading with empathy and action during times of crisis.

The unfolding events have captivated the nation, shedding light on the challenges and emotional toll faced by individuals and families directly affected by mining accidents. As the rescue teams continue their arduous task, the focus remains on the trapped miners and their families, with the collective hope and prayers of the nation echoing for a swift and successful rescue operation.

Rescue teams and onlookers at Senseli mine
Senseli mine the sight of the landslide that trapped 30 miners

Tobacco control bill to soon be presented in parliament

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Tobacco control bill to soon be presented in parliament

The UPND has revealed its commitment to enacting the long-awaited Tobacco Control Bill, stating that it will soon be presented to parliament for consideration. Minister of Information and Media, Cornelius Mweetwa, addressed stakeholders during the 2023 Zambia Media Network Against Tobacco (ZAMNAT) Media Awards ceremony held at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre.

Mr. Mweetwa, also the Chief Government Spokesperson, acknowledged the concerns and anxiety among stakeholders regarding the delay in enacting the tobacco control bill. Despite Zambia ratifying the World Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco (FCTC) 15 years ago, successive administrations had not domesticated the WHO-FCTC.

“I am pleased to inform you that the new dawn government has made unprecedented tangible headway in enacting a tobacco control law and will, in the very near future, present the tobacco control bill to parliament for enactment,” Mr. Mweetwa declared.

Expressing gratitude to the media and various stakeholders for their continued efforts in promoting a tobacco and nicotine-free nation, Mr. Mweetwa emphasized the importance of media innovation in reinforcing information on the dangers of tobacco and nicotine consumption.

“There is, therefore, a need for innovative ways to reinforce information about the dangers of tobacco and nicotine consumption, as well as the crucial measures that need to be taken to prevent, treat, and combat it. To keep the topic of tobacco control fresh, I encourage the media in their diversity to engage in creative in-depth journalistic pieces that will cover, educate, and stimulate public discourse,” he urged.

Lusaka Province Permanent Secretary, Robert Kamalata, echoed the sentiment, urging the media to familiarize itself with the government’s procedures for accessing relevant information. Kamalata stressed the importance of engaging the appropriate authorities to obtain accurate and timely information.

Addressing the gathering, ZAMNAT Chairperson Paxina Phiri called on the government to collaborate with civil society organizations to implement the mandate of the WHO-FCTC. She emphasized the need to protect and educate citizens about the dangers of tobacco and nicotine substances.

During a panel discussion, ZAMNAT Patron and Director, Professor Faston Goma, urged the media to intensify awareness efforts around the dangers of tobacco and other substances. He encouraged journalists to play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and fostering a healthier society.

The awards ceremony recognized journalists from both public and private media for their outstanding efforts in raising awareness about the effects of tobacco, with various prizes awarded to the deserving recipients. The event concluded with a renewed sense of commitment from all stakeholders towards achieving a tobacco-free Zambia.

PF MPs Urged to Embrace New Leadership Dynamics in National Assembly

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PF MPs Urged to Embrace New Leadership Dynamics in National Assembly

The leader of the opposition in Parliament, Robert Chabinga, has commended President Hakainde Hichilema for demonstrating a spirit of unity and magnanimity towards his predecessor, former President Edgar Lungu. In the midst of heightened provocations, Mr. Chabinga emphasized that President Hichilema and the United Party for National Development (UPND) are not responsible for the challenges within the former ruling Patriotic Front (PF).

Speaking from his position as the Member of Parliament for Mafinga, Mr. Chabinga advised PF Members of Parliament to acknowledge the changed leadership in the National Assembly. He urged them to embrace discipline and decorum in the legislative body, emphasizing the importance of non-political conduct and effective representation aligned with the wishes of the electorate.

“President Hichilema has demonstrated love towards his predecessor, former President Lungu, even in the face of heightened provocation. The challenges within the PF should not be laid at the doorstep of President Hichilema and the UPND. It is essential for PF MPs to accept the new reality and move forward,” stated Mr. Chabinga in a statement issued to ZNBC News in Lusaka.

He underscored the importance of maintaining discipline in the National Assembly, urging MPs to prioritize the interests of the people who elected them. Mr. Chabinga emphasized the need for constructive checks and balances from opposition MPs, fostering an environment of cooperation and effective governance.

“Opposition MPs have a crucial role in providing constructive checks and balances in the House. It is imperative for all MPs to refrain from antagonizing one another and focus on contributing positively to the legislative process,” added Mr. Chabinga.

Vernon Mwaanga Urges Zambians to Prioritize National Peace and Dialogue

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Vernon Mwaanga Urges Zambians to Prioritize National Peace and Dialogue

Renowned veteran politician and former diplomat, Vernon Mwaanga, is urging fellow Zambians to actively contribute towards the promotion of national peace and development. In a recent statement, Dr. Mwaanga emphasized the critical role of peace in Zambia’s pursuit of economic development and called on citizens to work collectively towards this common goal.

Highlighting the importance of peace as a foundation for progress, Dr. Mwaanga stressed that national peace is not just a given but must be actively pursued and maintained by the citizens. He underscored the need for constructive dialogue and lamented the apparent lack of recognition of its value among the new generation of politicians.

“We fought very hard to get rid of colonialism. We worked very hard to ensure that ‘one Zambia, one Nation’ remained our national motto. We have maintained good neighborliness with all the eight countries around us since our independence in October 1964. Our new generation of politicians is failing to understand and recognize the value of dialogue. Our politicians have opted to talk at each other but not to each other,” expressed Dr. Mwaanga.

Drawing from his experiences, Dr. Mwaanga highlighted the significance of dialogue and understanding diverse perspectives. He recalled the establishment of the Center for Inter-Party Dialogue during his generation, emphasizing its role in providing a platform for political parties to freely discuss matters of concern.

“In any free and diverse political environment, the difference of opinion is inevitable. Respect for each other’s opinions is vital. Civil discourse usually leads to finding common ground, which then produces compromises,” Dr. Mwaanga explained.

The veteran politician urged for civility in political discourse, emphasizing the importance of respectful disagreement and the recognition that differing opinions do not necessarily lead to hostility. He emphasized that fostering a peaceful political environment is crucial for economic growth and the well-being of the nation.

As Zambia faces the challenges of rebuilding its economy, Dr. Mwaanga emphasized the necessity of a peaceful political atmosphere. He called on all political parties to commit themselves to non-violence and ensure that this commitment reaches their supporters.

“There is nowhere in this world where there are no disagreements among people. We must also be cognizant of the fact that, in all the older and nascent democracies, people and institutions function within the laws on their statutes. Lawlessness is not synonymous with democracy. We all have a duty to help create an environment where our children and children’s children will live in peace and harmony,” Dr. Mwaanga concluded.

His words serve as a reminder of the responsibility each citizen holds in shaping the nation’s future, underscoring the importance of fostering an environment conducive to dialogue, understanding, and national unity.

President Hichilema to Visit Seseli Mine

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President Hichilema to Visit Seseli Mine

President Hakainde Hichilema is scheduled to visit Seseli Mine in Chingola on the Copperbelt, where a number of illegal miners find themselves trapped in a flooded open-pit mine. The announcement was made by Copper Minister Elisha Matambo during a press briefing in Chingola, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing the critical situation.

Minister Matambo expressed confidence in the measures and interventions implemented by the government, ensuring that the ongoing rescue mission will reach the trapped miners. The President’s visit underscores the gravity of the situation and the government’s hands-on approach in coordinating the rescue efforts.

Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe provided further assurance, stating that safety precautions are rigorously being followed to maximize the chances of a successful rescue operation. He emphasized that the government has engaged with families affected by the incident, with twenty-seven families having come forward to claim missing relatives.

“So far, the government has met the affected family members, providing support and information on the ongoing rescue efforts,” noted Minister Kabuswe.

To enhance the manpower involved in the rescue operation, the government has enlisted the support of approximately 400 casual workers. Copperbelt Deputy Permanent Secretary Daniel Kamenga confirmed this development during a donation event where the Chinese Community, led by New Future Investment, contributed food supplies to the rescue team.

“Government is doing everything possible to ensure that the rescue operation is concluded as soon as possible,” assured Mr. Kamenga. The additional workforce reflects the collective efforts to intensify the ongoing rescue mission.

Sandy Shi, Director of New Future Investment, conveyed the concern of the Chinese Community in Chingola, emphasizing their commitment to supporting the government in alleviating the burden posed by the tragic incident. The collaborative efforts between the government and various stakeholders, including the Chinese Community, highlight the unity of purpose in the face of adversity.

Question of Roadblocks; Debunking M’membe’s Mindless Conspiracy Theories!

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Question of Roadblocks; Debunking M’membe’s Mindless Conspiracy Theories!

As our nation continues grappling with AIDS………yes, you heard me right; Acquired Inadequate Development Syndrome (AIDS), we expected those that have had the privilege of perambulating through the gates of institutions of higher learning to memorise theories and walked away cum laude, to be busy prescribing smart solutions for our endemic malaise!

But what have we witnessed from these armchair critics, instead? Constant bickering and squabbling and spewing out cheap propaganda from desperate individuals eager to hoodwink the public……nay, access the honeycomb so that they can equally have their fair share of the spoils and thrills!

For instance, the Zambia Police under the New Dawn Administration just announced scrapping of all static security checkpoints and roadblocks on all our roads…. Just when we expected the likes of perennial critics such as self imposed leader of the Socialist Party, Fred M’membe to embrace and applaud such a revolutionary feat, he drops a bomb that has left many of us with jaws dropping!

“By removing static security checkpoint and roadblocks on these haulage routes what activities is Mr Hichilema and his government trying to ease? What really is going on here? Can they come clean and tell the nation the logic behind this highly suspicious decision?” wonders M’membe on his Facebook page.

Absolutely hogwash; mindless conspiracy theories!

On several occasions, I have endured the 1,398.2km stretch between Cape Town and Johannesburg by bus in crime prone South Africa; I’ve equally been chauffeur driven on the 147km highway from Friesland to Amsterdam in the Netherlands at the height of terrorist attacks, on both occasions I have never encountered any unnecessary road blocks or police check points. The only time I’ve witnessed road blocks is when there’s been a grisly road carnage or money heist and the terrorist threat has been upgraded to red alert in the two countries, respectively. What I’ve seen instead, are highway patrol vehicles strategically stationed on either side of the road eagerly waiting to give chase to suspicious looking vehicles!

Road blocks and check points have not only been a nuisance for most road users, but actually precious mines where corrupt cops turned up each day to mint gold! Challenge the Anti Corruption Commission to conduct investigations, you’ll be shocked to see assets some of these police officers have accumulated compared to their modest salaries.

If my civic education knowledge serves me right, road blocks and check points were introduced during the colonial era to monitor the movement of freedom fighters or indeed set traps for them! After the liberation struggle, the UNIP government equally adopted the same strategy mainly to detect clandestine activities of insurgents who were active at the time sniffing for opportunities to erase our strategic installations such as bridges, airports and communication facilities etc. to the ground as punishment for sheltering freedom fighters from Southern Africa.

Come on dude; we no longer live in the Dark Ages! There are always advanced techniques available to monitor the movement of our precious minerals or indeed intercept drunks and those those who may have committed heinous crimes in one place or another. What happened to the concept of smart cities anyway?

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Bruce Mwape: We Wont Underrate Angola

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Coach Bruce Mwape has repeated that Zambia won’t underrate Angola in Tuesday evening’s 2024 Women’s Africa Cup qualifier at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

Shepolopolo Zambia have a 6-0 lead from the first leg match of the final qualifying round played in Luanda, Angola last week.

In a pre-match comment, Mwape declared Zambia ready for the match.

“The team is ready for tomorrow’s game against Angola. Although we beat them in Angola it doesn’t mean we are underrating them,” Mwape said.

“There will be nothing like underrating them. I am sure Angola would like to win the second leg but we are ready for the match,” he said.

The match will kick off at 18h00.

Meanwhile, Angola arrived in Ndola on Monday ahead of the qualifying match.

Mwenya Chipepo Reflects on Beating ex-Club Power Dynamos

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New Forest Rangers coach Mwenya Chipepo says he was not emotional when beating his old side Power Dynamos over the weekend.

Chipepo last Saturday engineered Forest’s 1-0 win over Power, a club he ditched in October before joining the Ndola side.

In a post-match comment, Chipepo said he has found a family in Forest.

The coach declared that he is seeking to transform Forest into a stronger side.

“Power Dynamos is my childhood team and I like the team but I have moved to Forest Rangers,” Chipepo said.

“Forest is now my new family. I just want to build this team the way I built Power Dynamos,” he said.

Forest endured a three-match winless run prior to beating Power.

Tenth placed Forest have 18 points while Power are seventh on the table with 21 points after 14 matches played.

Meanwhile, Zesco United have opened a four-point lead at the top of the table following Saturday’s 3-1 win over FC Muza away in Southern Province.

Nkwazi are second on the table followed by Red Arrows and Muza respectively.

FAZ Super Division – Week 14
03.11.2023
Trident 0-0 Konkola Blades
Mutondo Stars 2-0 Kansanshi Dynamos
Red Arrows 1-1 Kabwe Warriors
Zanaco 1-1 Green Eagles
02.11.2023
Mufulira Wanderers 1-1 Nkwazi
Napsa Stars 1-0 Prison Leopards
FC Muza 1-3 Zesco United
Nkana 2-1 Green Buffaloes
Forest Rangers 1-0 Power Dynamos

Cattle movement ban to be lifted soon

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Cattle movement ban to be lifted soon

Fisheries and livestock minister Makozo Chikote says the livestock movement ban imposed on Anthrax affected districts would be lifted once the disease is under control.

Speaking on separate platforms in Kalomo Mr. Chikote is hopeful that with the general public adhering to the laid down measures to control the disease spread, his ministry would soon consider lifting the ban upon vaccinating all the animals in affected districts.

“We have put a ban on livestock movement so that it does not spread across the country.

“ It is not a punishment as we are aware that this measure has an economic effect on people’s lives but as soon as we finish vaccinating all the animals in affected districts and do a review, I can assure you the ban is going to be lifted within the shortest possible time, what we need is compliance of laid down guidelines,” Mr. Chikote said when he featured on Voice of Kalomo radio.

Earlier, the minister expressed concern over the inhabitable state of accommodation for veterinary extension camps officers rendering his staff to reside in town.

He thereby prodded the ward development committees to assist in the matter through the constituency development fund (CDF).

He said this after a meeting with Kalomo district commissioner, Joshua Sikaduli.

And addressing farmers at Munakanyemba school, Mr. Chikote said no domestic animal would be left out in the vaccination exercise as his ministry is locally sourcing the Anthrax vaccine from the Central Veterinary Research Institute (CVRI) which has a production capacity of about 100,000 to 150,000 per week.

He further urged farmers to cooperate with his officers as the vaccine is for free.

The minister who was accompanied by his ministry senior staff, Southern province veterinary officer, Wilfred Tembo also paid a courtesy call on chief Sipatunyana of Kalomo where he urged traditional leaders to take a lead to enforce Anthrax control measures among their subjects.

Mr. Chikote and his team were in Southern province to appreciate operational challenges of his departments and assess what has been on the ground since the outbreak of Anthrax in the region last October.

Currently, the veterinary department is vaccinating animals against Anthrax in the region to contain the disease.

M’membe, Kambwili; birds of the same feathers!

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M’membe, Kambwili; birds of the same feathers!

Dr Fred M’membe, leader of the Socialist Party, has shared some words of encouragement and kindness for recently incarcerated Chishimba Kambwili.

Taking to the Facebook page of his Socialist Party, he submitted, “Mwaice wandi Chishimba Kambwili wisakamana. Natwishiba ifilechitika napali ubwafya natupamona.” Loosely translated into English – do not worry my young brother. We know what is happening and we’ve seen where there’s a problem.

For obvious reasons, M’membe deliberately chooses to package his thoughts in Bemba. However, if you bother to comb through the said page, you’ll discover that the once Editor of an influential tabloid usually shares his thoughts in our official language – English. Why the sudden change in the choice of the language to interact with members of the public? What is the thrust of this article? Is he somehow giving tacit approval of Kambwili’s uncouth tribal ranting?

It’s absolutely immoral and unfair to try and apportion Kambwili’s latest predicament to UPND when they were not anywhere near the corridors of power when the case was initiated.

As revealed by Mulenga Thornicroft on her Facebook page, the case which has seen Kambwili jumping on a CDF Landcruiser to begin his long journey to prison was actually reported during the PF regime by three brave women – Laura Miti, Mutibo Harvey and Mulenga herself!

“Anybody who chooses to see this as a ploy by UPND to fix Kambwili is not thinking straight!” maintains Mulenga.

She further insists that Zambia is for all of us and will never allow a few individuals make any Tonga child feel like a second class citizen due to selfish political ambitions.

Considering the gravity of the offence, Kambwili is even lucky he walked away with a lesser sentence.

Anyway, we are not surprised that M’membe has come to the defence of one of his kind. As editor of The Post Newspapers, he used the publication not only to unleash scathing attacks on UPND, but equally mounted a vicious tribal campaign against the party.

In an attempt to hoodwink the right thinking members of the public that UPND did not enjoy the support of the people beyond Southern province, he constantly referred to it as a Bantustan; a deregatory reference to partially self-governing areas set aside during the period of apartheid for particular indigenous African folks.

We are not surprised that M’membe is quick to defend Kambwili and assure him of liberation in the not too distant future…..they are actually birds of the same feathers. They both share a history of stoking tribal sentiments!

By Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Atlas Mara, the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Zambia partner to plant 200 fruit trees in Lusaka schools

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Atlas Mara, the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Zambia partner to plant 200 fruit trees in Lusaka schools

Atlas Mara Bank and the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Zambia will plant around 200 fruit trees seedlings in four schools in Lusaka as part of its “One Tree At A Time” campaign.

Launched on Friday at Kamwala South Secondary School, the campaign which is in collaboration with the IKOE Foundation will see 200 fruit trees seedlings planted in four Lusaka schools.

Atlas Mara Acting Chief Executive Officer Bobbline Cheembela said the campaign exemplifies the bank’s dedication to environmental sustainability.

Mr Chembela said Students participating in the Award program will nurture these trees as part of their community service commitment.

He said the initiative aligns with our CSR strategy, focusing on Education, Health, Entrepreneurship, and the Environment.

“By planting trees, we’re not just fulfilling our environmental commitment but also educating others about the significance of conservation, laying the foundation for a sustainable future, Mr Cheembela said.

“I am deeply honoured to be here today in support of an initiative that symbolizes our
commitment to a sustainable future. Atlas Mara Bank recognizes the crucial role that education plays in uplifting communities in Zambia and we actively seek out initiatives that have a positive and sustainable impact on the educational sector,” he said.

Pupils watch the tree planting at their school by Atlas Mara

“Through our corporate social responsibility programs, particularly our education pillar, we not only provide financial literacy to communities where we operate but also strive to enhance the quality of education and expand access in rural and disadvantaged areas.”

He added, “Since our partnership was established with the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Zambia in 2019, we have impacted the lives of over 500 young individuals in Zambia ranging from ages 14 to 24 at various levels of the Duke of Edinburgh International Award program empowering them to develop essential soft skills necessary for success in any professional environment.”

“In 2022, we invested K687,500 to strengthen our partnership with the Ministry of Education, aiming to empower 1,200 students and 80 educators in 40 government schools across Zambia allowing us to reach a diverse array of students in different institutions. We’ve embraced diversity by partnering with all-boys, all-girls, mixed, and schools catering to differently-abled individuals.”

Mr Cheembela said Atlas Mara is still commitment to instilling environmental
awareness, enhancing the school’s ecological framework, and provide practical learning opportunities for students.

“This initiative aligns with the government’s green initiatives and contributes to the betterment of our environment.”

He added, “looking ahead, our vision encompasses providing holistic educational experiences that empower future leaders. By integrating environmental awareness into education, we aim to nurture well-rounded individuals equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.”

Progress made in retrieving trapped Chingola miners

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Progress made in retrieving trapped Chingola miners

Government says it has made progress at Seseli dump site where over 30 Miners are trapped though no miner has been retried as at Day 3 of the search operations.

Copperbelt Province Minister Elisha Matambo said rescue operators at the site have managed to pump out water in a tunnel which was filled up.

Mr Matambo said the Commando Unit has also joined the team to help with rescue operations.

Speaking during a press briefing after visiting the site, the Provincial Minister stated that rescue operators have assured that they are only remaining with about 2.5 meters to reach where the Miners are suspected to be.

He has further thanked the rescue operators for the efforts made in ensuring that the small scale miners are retrieved.

Mr. Matambo says government will work round the clock to search for bodies trapped at the three sites.

He said government is concerned and sympathises with the families whose relatives are missing and added that so far no one has been declared dead because there is no single body that has been retrieved.

“We want to assure the nation that government has mobilized all equipment needed to search for bodies believed to be trapped in the pit. So far Five excavators are on the ground trying to secure the holes were the persons are believed to be, a front loader and enough man power ready secure the holes. So far we have managed to pump out water then take out the mud before the search commences.” said Mr Matambo

He said currently, there is a team from the Provincial Joint Operation Command, PJOC, District Joint operation Command, DJOC, KCM , Mopani, Nchanga mines rescue teams creating a buffer of enough personnel currently camping to monitor the search for the persons trapped in the pit.

Mr. Matambo said he remains optimistic that the team will make breakthroughs atleast by tomorrow on the status of the persons trapped in the pit and added that President Hakainde Hichilema is in constant touch through the Secretariat of Ministers that has been created for the rescue mission.

And Mines and Mineral Development Minister Paul Kabuswe has expressed disappointment at insensitive utterances from made the opposition towards the accident at a time when families missing their relatives.

“An open pit is a very delicate area and as a result precaution needs to be taken to prevent an accident within an accident, we seem to be taking time because we have to be careful and professional as we conduct a search and to protect everyone working in the pit. So far we met 25 families that have reported missing persons. We have 16 persons missing from Chingola, two persons missing from Kitwe, six persons from Luanshya and one from Chililabombwe.” said Mr Kabuswe.

He said government and the rescue team was in constant touch with families and is happy that all systems are at work to secure the missing persons.

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