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Some Consent Judgments amount to corruption-Prof Ndulo and Dr Kaaba

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Prominent legal scholars Prof Muna Ndulo and Dr Obrien Kaaba have described some recent Consent Judgements entered into between the state and some individuals as acts of corruption.

In a statement, Prof. Ndulo of Cornell University and Dr Kaaba from UNZA noted that although some Consent Judgements are justifiable, some are a racketeering scheme.

The duo have since appealed to President Hichilema to put a stop to this.

“We are also concerned that in some cases, the lawyers representing concerned individuals and those in State Chambers have previously had personal connections, raising questions about conflict of interest and the credibility of the negotiations and the protection of public interest in these settlements,” they said.

They also called on President Hichilema to critically analyze his legal team at State House and dismiss those who are behind the racketeering scheme.

Below is the full statement

Press Statement by Prof Muna Ndulo and Dr O’Brien Kaaba on the Consent Orders Being Entered into by the State and Various Litigants

We have observed with bewilderment and disbelief several consent orders entered into between the State Chambers and various individuals involving huge sums of money.
Although some appear well deserving, in a number these cases, there is either no sound legal justification for the settlements or the awards and the legal costs are grossly inflated. For example, in the case of Kaizar Zulu, it is clear he was not acting on behalf of the state and there is no moral or legal justification whatsoever for the state to compensate those he injured in his private capacity. It would appear that someone in the State Chambers is fishing for such cases for personal gain, and that is corruption. It must be stopped forthwith.
We are also concerned that in some cases the lawyers representing concerned individuals and those in State Chambers have previously had personal connections, raising questions about conflict of interest and the credibility of the negotiations and the protection of public interest in these settlements.
We call upon President Hichilema to critically evaluate his legal team in State Chambers and dismiss those who are behind these racketeering schemes.
We are appalled that oversight institutions such as the ACC, which should be in the forefront of protecting public resources, are doing nothing serious about the problem. This should have been stopped a long time ago had ACC been proactive, strategic and serious about protecting public resources.
The deals at the Ministry of Justice clearly indicate that to have a sustainable fight against corruption, it is not enough that the top national leadership is committed to the eradication of corruption. We need institutional transformation. We need to redesign institutions like ACC to make them capable and truly professional and independent.
Professor Muna Ndulo, Cornell University
O’Brien Kaaba, University of Zambia

Energy Regulation Board Maintains Petroleum Prices, Implements Transport Cost Equalization

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The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has announced the decision to maintain petroleum pump prices for the month of December 2023. In addition, the board has introduced a transport cost equalization mechanism to moderate transportation costs associated with petroleum products imported by road.

Reynolds Bowa, Chairperson of the ERB, shared this information during a media briefing held in Lusaka. Bowa emphasized the board’s commitment to implementing measures that mitigate potential adverse impacts on domestic prices during the fourth quarter of 2023.

The transport cost equalization mechanism, utilizing the Petroleum Strategic Reserve Fund, aims to alleviate the financial burden incurred in importing petroleum products by road. Bowa explained that this mechanism would undergo periodic reviews to ensure its relevance, aligning with fluctuations in international oil prices.

According to the ERB’s latest decision, the price of petrol remains at 29 Kwacha 98 ngwee per litre, diesel at 29 Kwacha 96 ngwee per litre, and jet A1 fuel at 29 Kwacha 29 ngwee per litre. The price for kerosene has also been maintained at 20 Kwacha 44 ngwee per litre.

This decision by the ERB is part of its regular monthly revision of petroleum pump prices and reflects the board’s efforts to maintain stability in the petroleum sector while considering economic factors and international market trends. The announcement comes as Zambia navigates the challenges associated with the global energy landscape.

Bruce Mwape Salutes Shepolopolo win over Angola

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Shepolopolo Zambia Coach Bruce Mwape is pleased with the giant step made by his side toward qualifying for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup.

Mwape’s Zambia side on Wednesday evening thrashed Angola 6-0 in the first leg tie of the final WAFCON qualifying round played away in Luanda.

Zambia captain Barbra Banda registered a hat-trick in Angola.

In a post match comment, Mwape said Zambia is looking forward to winning the return leg set for Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola on December 5.

“Our target was to finish the game here in Angola. Even when we were leaving Zambia that is the message we left,” Mwape said.

“As a technical bench we are very much happy about the result and when we get back to Zambia we will still make sure that we carry the day so that we qualify to the Africa Cup,” he said.

Overall winners in this round will qualify to the WAFCON to be hosted by Morocco.

Tina Knowles Defends Beyoncé Against Skin-Lightening Accusations at Renaissance Premiere

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Tina Knowles came to her daughter’s defence on Instagram, calling out “sad little haters”
Getty Images

Beyoncé’s mother, Tina Knowles, has passionately defended her daughter against critics who suggested the star lightened her skin for the premiere of her film, “Renaissance.” The Grammy-winning artist attended the red carpet event on Saturday with a platinum blonde hair look and wore a silver dress, embracing the theme of the film.

Social media erupted with comments claiming that Beyoncé had altered her appearance and “looks so white.” In response, Tina Knowles took to Instagram in a lengthy post condemning the accusations as racist, ignorant, and self-hating.

Knowles stated, “She does a film, called the Renaissance, where the whole theme is silver with silver hair, a silver carpet, and suggested silver attire, and you bozos decide that she’s trying to be a white woman and is bleaching her skin?”

The post, which included a video montage of Beyoncé set to her song “Brown Skin Girl,” received over 250,000 likes since its Tuesday night upload. The song, released in 2019 as part of the film soundtrack for “The Lion King: The Gift,” celebrates blackness and includes empowering lyrics sung by Beyoncé’s daughter Blue Ivy.

In the Instagram post, Tina Knowles expressed frustration with those attacking her daughter, emphasizing Beyoncé’s positive contributions. “This girl minds her own business. She helps people whenever she can. She lifts up and promotes black women and underdogs at all times,” Knowles wrote.

The 69-year-old also admitted that Beyoncé would likely be annoyed by her post but conveyed that she was “fed up” with the unwarranted criticism. “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé,” documenting the world tour of her Grammy-winning album, premiered in Los Angeles on Saturday and is set to release in cinemas worldwide on Friday. The album, Beyoncé’s first solo project after a six-year break, received acclaim for its fusion of black and queer influences and debuted at number one upon its release.

President Hichilema Leads Zambian Delegation to COP28 in Dubai

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President Hakainde Hichilema has departed for Dubai to attend the 28th meeting of the Conference of Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The invitation, extended by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, underscores the global importance of addressing climate change.

President Hichilema, who will participate in the High-Level Segment for Heads of State and Government, aims to collaborate with other world leaders in advancing sustainable development, leveraging new technologies, and mobilizing resources for agreed actions to protect countries and the environment. Key events on his agenda include the World Climate Action Summit, G77 and China Leaders’ Summit, and various high-level roundtable meetings.

During the COP28, strategic bilateral engagements will be held, focusing on energy, agriculture, trade, technology transfer, tourism, and infrastructure development. Additionally, the President seeks to continue discussions on debt resolution, addressing economic challenges faced by Zambia.

In a statement, President Hichilema expressed gratitude for the invitation and highlighted the country’s commitment to addressing climate change, emphasizing the need for collective efforts in securing a sustainable future.

Meanwhile, controversy has arisen as the President of COP28, Sultan al-Jaber, denies allegations that the United Arab Emirates is leveraging the summit for oil and gas deals. Leaked documents revealed discussions on fossil fuel deals with various nations. Al-Jaber dismissed the reports, stating that they aimed to undermine his COP28 presidency and emphasized the summit’s commitment to addressing climate change.

The summit’s theme, “Racing for a Better World,” reflects the urgency of global efforts in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Controversy Arises as Kenyan Parliament Bans Kaunda Suits

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Kenya’s parliament has sparked controversy by instituting a ban on the iconic Kaunda suit, named after the late Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda, within its premises. Speaker of Parliament Moses Wetangula announced that both Kaunda suits and traditional African attire were no longer permissible.

The Kaunda suit, distinguished by a safari jacket and matching trousers, owes its name to President Kaunda, who played a pivotal role in making it a fashion statement. The attire has gained popularity among the political elite, with Kenyan President William Ruto often choosing it for official events.

Speaker Wetangula justified the ban by citing emerging fashion trends that posed a challenge to the established parliamentary dress code. He outlined a prescribed dress code for men, including a coat, collar, tie, long-sleeved shirt, long trousers, socks, shoes, or service uniform. Women were advised to adhere to business, formal, or smart casual wear, with skirts and dresses below knee-length and sleeveless blouses prohibited.

While acknowledging past tolerance of the Kaunda suit in parliament, Wetangula emphasized the need to halt this practice to preserve the parliamentary dress code. The recent attention garnered by the Kaunda suit on Kenyan social media, especially due to President Ruto’s frequent appearances in it during official functions, adds an extra layer to the controversy.

The ban has triggered mixed reactions on social media, with some questioning the prohibition of an African attire in an African parliament. Others express support for maintaining a specified dress code. The controversy surrounding the Kaunda suit ban reflects the intersection of cultural expression, fashion, and political symbolism, sparking discussions about the significance of attire within the context of parliamentary proceedings.

Hon. Kafwaya Raises Concerns Over Alleged Corruption and Collapse of Debt Restructuring Deal

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Lunte Member of Parliament, Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya, has expressed grave concerns over the alleged collapse of the government’s debt restructuring deal, citing corruption and dishonesty as major contributors to the deal’s demise.

Hon. Kafwaya asserted that the debt restructuring deal, a key initiative pursued by the government, is now “as good as dead” due to what he claims is a lack of transparency and questionable practices in its execution.

Among the highlighted issues, Hon. Kafwaya pointed to the revelation that the government had purportedly agreed to pay $2.5 billion between 2024 and 2025 to bondholders. This decision, according to him, has reportedly angered the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He emphasized that committing to such a substantial amount contradicts the ongoing $1.3 billion program with the IMF and raises concerns about the financial feasibility of such an agreement.

Furthermore, Hon. Kafwaya criticized the government for agreeing to an 18% haircut instead of the 40% demanded from other creditors, deviating from the G20 Common Framework’s principle of equal debt treatment. He disclosed that the face value of the new bonds was increased to $3.135 billion in both scenarios, exceeding the original $3 billion face value of the old notes.

The Member of Parliament expressed his dismay, stating, “The agreement announced on 26th October 2023 with the External Bondholder Steering Committee is so absurd that it has shocked the IMF, Official Creditor Committee headed by China and France.”

In response to these concerns, Hon. Kafwaya urged the government to provide an explanation for the alleged scandalous clauses in the debt restructuring deal, which has reportedly been renounced. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, indicating that an announcement about the renouncement had been directed to the London Stock Exchange.

Hon. Kafwaya concluded by asserting that the reported carelessness in dealing with such matters is now costing the nation and could potentially lead Zambia back into a state of debt distress. He called for increased honesty in governance matters to avoid economic hardship and soaring living costs.

The government has not yet officially responded to these allegations, and the situation is likely to draw further scrutiny in the coming days.

GBM’s nephew Adolphus Mubanga convicted for possession of assets deemed proceeds of crime

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Adolphus Mubanga, a Lusaka businessman and the country representative of CURZON Global Limited, has been convicted and sentenced to two years of imprisonment with hard labor for the possession of properties considered proceeds of crime. The judgment was delivered by Lusaka Principal Magistrate Irene Wishimanga.

Adolphus Mubanga had initially faced joint accusations alongside former Defence Minister Geoffrey Mwamba. However, they were later separated from the indictment, and Mubanga faced independent charges related to the possession of assets believed to be derived from criminal activities.

The charges against Mubanga specified that between June 1 and August 30, 2021, he was found in possession of four million and 50 thousand units of currency in a named bank, deemed to be proceeds of crime. Additionally, on August 30, 2015, he allegedly possessed K980 000 held at a specific bank, and on November 30, 2015, he held K525 954 in another bank, both amounts considered proceeds of crime.

Lusaka Principal Magistrate Irene Wishimanga handed down the verdict, sentencing Mr. Mubanga to a two-year prison term with hard labor after finding him guilty of the charges. The judgment marks a significant development in the legal proceedings surrounding the alleged possession of assets derived from criminal activities.

Mr. Mubanga’s association with CURZON Global Limited, a company where Geoffrey Mwamba reportedly expressed interest for business dealings in 2011 during his tenure as Defence Minister, adds an additional layer of complexity to the case.

It is noteworthy that Geoffrey Mwamba, the former Defence Minister, remains a separate entity in the legal proceedings, and the verdict pertains solely to Adolphus Mubanga’s charges.

President Hichilema Engages U.S. CDC Delegation to Strengthen Health Collaboration

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President Hakainde Hichilema welcomed a delegation from the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at State House, led by Principal Deputy Director, Dr. Nirav Shah. The meeting marked a significant engagement to reinforce the collaboration between Zambia and the CDC in various health programs.

Expressing gratitude for the CDC’s longstanding cooperation, President Hichilema highlighted the organization’s pivotal role in supporting health initiatives in Zambia, ranging from HIV/AIDS to Tuberculosis prevention. Through the President’s Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), the CDC has played a crucial role in supporting Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) and preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV across the country.

The productive dialogue between President Hichilema and the CDC delegation included an acknowledgment of the CDC’s technical and financial assistance to Zambia, ensuring the highest quality health outcomes for the Zambian people.

In line with Zambia’s strategic shift towards a private sector-led economy, President Hichilema urged the CDC to explore opportunities for local manufacturing of medicines and medical consumables. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader agenda of job creation, economic growth, and enhancing the capacity of the local workforce.

President Hichilema stated, “We thank the CDC for their unwavering support and collaboration in addressing critical health issues in Zambia. As we transition towards a private sector-led economy, we see great potential in localizing the production of medicines, contributing to both economic growth and workforce development.”

The discussions emphasized the shared commitment to advancing healthcare in Zambia and exploring innovative solutions to meet the evolving health challenges facing the nation.

The visit concluded with President Hichilema expressing optimism about the future of the partnership, emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration to achieve robust health outcomes and economic growth for Zambia.

President Hakainde Hichilema and U.S Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Principal Deputy Director, Dr Nirav Shah.

Former Barclays Boss Accused of Fabricating Conflict of Interest in Zambian Bank Takeover

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London, November 28, 2023 — The High Court in London heard explosive allegations against former Barclays boss Bob Diamond, claiming that he fabricated a conflict of interest to obstruct Zambian businessman Dr. Rajan Mahtani from benefiting from the sale of Finance Bank Zambia (FBZ).

Dr. Mahtani, who founded FBZ in 1986 and agreed to a takeover by Diamond’s Atlas Mara company, accuses the latter of breaching the terms of the acquisition agreement, leading to a lawsuit seeking up to $100 million (£80m) in damages.

In his testimony on Tuesday, Dr. Mahtani refuted claims of a conflict of interest linked to the appointment of Faber Capital as a fundraising agent for the sale of FBZ and its subsidiaries. He alleged that the conflict was a pretext for delaying Faber’s appointment, hindering the raising of funds to achieve an ‘earn out’ target by the deadline of December 31, 2016.

The alleged conflict arose as Faber Capital was also mandated to work for Crane Bank, a Ugandan bank that Atlas Mara was considering for purchase. Dr. Mahtani dismissed the conflict as a ‘fiasco,’ stating that none of the involved parties, including Faber Capital and Crane, saw any problem.

During cross-examination, Atlas Mara’s representative, Anna Boase KC, cited correspondence indicating the company’s cooperation until the identification of the conflict on August 5, 2016. Boase argued that Atlas Mara resumed working with Faber once the conflict was resolved on September 27, as Faber dropped its Ugandan client.

Dr. Mahtani countered that none of the parties involved agreed on the existence of a conflict during that period. He claimed that the conflict issue soured relations between Atlas Mara and Faber, pointing to an internal email from Faber on September 24, expressing frustration with Atlas Mara’s reluctance to work with them.

Despite the email, Faber continued to work with FBZ, emailing Dr. Mahtani on October 9, outlining conditions for becoming the official fundraising agent. Dr. Mahtani blamed Atlas Mara for preventing the funds from being raised, emphasizing that it was the company’s lack of cooperation.

The ongoing trial raises serious allegations against Bob Diamond, whose past controversies include a forced exit from Barclays in a 2012 interbank rate-fixing scandal. Barclays was fined a record £290 million for manipulating rates determining mortgage payments.

The trial continues, promising further revelations and insights into the intricate web surrounding the FBZ takeover.

Source: Nick Forbes
Central News, Press Room, Central Criminal Court

Beyond deception ,UPND Political Campaign promises are 1000 ways to die

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By Misheck Kakonde

In the wake of the UPND’s governance, the stark contrast between promised pledges and stark realities has shattered public trust. The failure to deliver on commitments, along with the misleading depiction of achievements such as the IMF deal, has left citizens disheartened, yearning for the anticipated change. The timeless adage that “lies have short legs” stands evident, exposing the limitations of deceit in the face of tangible outcomes.

Winston Churchill’s said “the price of greatness is responsibility” resonates deeply. The current UPND administration shoulders the burden of being held accountable for veering away from the assurances extended to the Zambian people. Drawing from Theodore Roosevelt’s words, urging courageous endeavors despite setbacks, emphasizes the imperative for action over passive acceptance.

Furthermore, those staunchly supporting the government will soon awaken from their political slumber. Hunger and hardship do not discriminate based on political loyalty, the consequences of governmental actions impact all citizens, irrespective of party affiliations. Thus, it is crucial for Zambians to transcend partisan divides and embrace a profound sense of patriotism for the nation’s collective welfare.

In the realm of governance, the role of the Speaker of the National Assembly assumes paramount importance. Upholding impartiality and exemplifying honorable conduct are imperative in this position. Taking inspiration from former speakers like Amusa Mwanamwambwa could serve as a guiding light for the current Speaker in steering parliamentary affairs with integrity, transcending political biases for the greater good of Zambia.

The UPND leaders in government Plutocratic behavior is worrying, the administration should learn from leaders like Kenneth Kaunda who echoed a call for unity and collective progress, than the weekly arrests of opposition members, people with different views without evidence for arresting in trying to excite the unsuspecting Zambian citizens. Kaunda’s emphasis on unity in diversity and a shared vision for a better future can serve as a beacon for Zambians in transcending political differences for the nation’s prosperity.

Enough with the deception, it is time to for the Hakainde led administration to be honest and seek a national indaba to discuss the economic status of Zambia and find solutions to avoid this political hallucination we are witnessing.

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 Zambia Cultures, Ceremonies” and contributor in the book “Young Zambia between poverty and abundant resources”. Email: [email protected]

Government urged to consider making Agricultural science a compulsory subject in schools

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The Kalumbila District Administrative Officer, Frank Siatwinda, has urged the government to consider making Agricultural Science a compulsory subject in schools to engage children in agricultural activities from an early age.

Speaking at the launch of the distribution of the Food Security Pack (FSP) 2023/2024 farming inputs under the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services at Mutanda Community Hall in Mumena chiefdom, Mr. Siatwinda emphasized the potential of the agricultural sector to provide employment opportunities for school leavers.

“Allow me to encourage the government to make agriculture compulsory in our school curriculum so that our children can be engaged in agriculture production at an early stage. The agriculture sector is capable of employing a large number of school leavers who are currently roaming the streets,” said Mr. Siatwinda.

The Food Security Pack (FSP) is a social safety net program identified in the National Social Protection Policy, targeting poor and vulnerable but viable farmer households, especially those headed by females, providing them with agricultural inputs and accompanying services.

“The 2023/2024 farming season has targeted 1,062 beneficiaries in all the 12 wards of Kalumbila district,” added Mr. Siatwinda.

The overall objective of the FSP program is to empower poor and vulnerable households with agricultural inputs and livelihood skills, enhancing productivity, nutrition, food security, and incomes for self-sustainability and poverty reduction.

Encouraging beneficiaries to utilize the inputs effectively, Mr. Siatwinda advised them to join cooperatives or farmer and savings groups. The distribution includes compound D fertilizer, urea fertilizer, groundnut seed, maize seed, and beans.

Acting District Community Development Officer Louis Mulale explained that the majority of FSP beneficiaries in the district are women, emphasizing that the target groups include female-headed households, the aged, disabled, child-aided households, and unemployed youth.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the government’s support, emphasizing the positive impact on their ability to cater for their families’ food needs. Bridget Kangala, a first-time beneficiary, praised the program, highlighting its importance in assisting vulnerable individuals and families.

FAZ Urges Fans to Uphold Fair Play and Avoid Hooliganism

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Sydney Mungala, the Communications Manager of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), has called on football fans to refrain from taking the law into their own hands and resorting to hooliganism, emphasizing the importance of following established procedures to address grievances.

In an interview with ZANIS sports, Mungala highlighted that football matches have specific procedures in place, and decisions made by referees are based on careful observations. He urged players, officials, and fans who may be dissatisfied with refereeing decisions to follow the proper channels rather than engaging in unruly behavior.

Mungala emphasized the presence of well-trained referees in Zambia and encouraged stakeholders to trust the established procedures for addressing concerns. He stated that decisions should not be based solely on individual mistakes, and the football community should collectively uphold fair play.

Responding to allegations about the quality of Zambian referee officiating, Mungala dismissed such claims, pointing out that Zambia has received recognition from both the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) to officiate international games. He further noted that Zambia was well-represented in the recently concluded COSAFA women’s game, with five women referees, demonstrating the country’s commitment to maintaining high standards in officiating.

As football continues to be a source of passion for many Zambians, FAZ emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive and respectful atmosphere during matches, ensuring that disputes are resolved through proper channels and in adherence to established procedures.

Fake Medical Doctor Apprehended for Impersonation and Fraud in Chawama Hospital Scam

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The Kabwata police have successfully arrested an individual impersonating a medical doctor in connection with a fraudulent operation at Chawama Hospital. The suspect, identified as Dr. John Mulenga, was apprehended on November 24, 2023, at East Park Mall, and is currently in custody pending a court appearance.

The arrest follows a report filed by Irene Njovu, a 25-year-old resident of an unmarked house in Chilenje. Njovu reported the impersonation after experiencing gynecological complications and being introduced to the suspect by her husband, Joseph Mwale, aged 29.

According to the report, the suspect claimed to be Dr. John Mulenga, associated with an unknown residence in Chipata Compound. The imposter convinced Njovu to make an appointment for a medical operation, allegedly scheduled for November 24, 2023, at Chawama Hospital.

Before the supposed operation, the suspect collected K650 from Njovu for the medical procedure. However, suspicions arose just before the operation, leading to the discovery that the alleged medical practitioner was, in fact, an impersonator with no medical qualifications.

The police were alerted, and the suspect was swiftly apprehended at East Park Mall around 18:30 hours on the same day. The suspect is currently in police custody, awaiting formal charges and a court appearance.

Rae Hamoonga, the Police Public Relations Officer, emphasized the commitment of law enforcement to ensuring the safety and well-being of the public. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police promptly.

The case serves as a stark reminder for individuals to verify the credentials of healthcare professionals and seek medical services from recognized and authorized institutions to safeguard their health and well-being.

President Hichilema salutes USA

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President Hakainde Hichilema has thanked the United States government through the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (US-CDC) for the continued support to the country’s health care services delivery.

President Hichilema says Zambia has continued to benefit from the support from (CDC) which has helped the   reduced disease burden, thereby improving the welfare of the people in the country.

The President cited the support towards the fight against HIV and AIDS and Tuberculosis as some of the successes that the country has scored in addressing the disease burden through the support from the Presidential Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

President Hichilema said this at the State House in Lusaka today, when a delegation from US-CDC led by its Principal Deputy Director Dr Nirv Shah paid a courtesy call on him.

The Head of State further underscored the partnership between the two countries in improving the health care provision for the benefit of the vulnerable people.

He noted that this is why there is need for strengthened collaboration between the two government’s in other public health care services and emergencies in order for Zambia to achieve the target on universal health coverage for all.

President Hichilema has also thanked the CDC team for attending the ongoing International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA) which is currently underway in Lusaka from 27 to 30 November.

And Dr Shah has praised Zambia for the various strides it has recorded in improving the health care services and facilities across the country.

He said this is why the US CDC will continue to partner with the Zambian government in building critical global health security capacities necessary to prevent,detect,and respond to many health threats.

He explained that since 2015 CDC has supported the Zambian government to establish the Zambia National Public Health Institute, and the training of 250 disease detectives to respond to health threats.