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Abandoned Mbala baby reunited with mother

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Abandoned Mbala baby reunited with mother

The 17-year-old woman who allegedly abandoned her child immediately after giving birth at Tulemane Clinic in Mbala has been found.

ZANIS reports that Mbala District Commissioner Annie Paul confirmed the development and named the woman as Leya Nanyangwe , after she was found in Kompompo compound.

Mrs Paul indicated that Ms. Nanyangwe, however, claimed that she did not know that the baby was still alive.

She said the woman in question, who was taken to the clinic to see the child, was shocked to find that the baby was still alive.

According to the District Commissioner, Ms Nanyangwe refuted claims that she abandoned the child but only left her at the hospital after suspecting that it was dead.

She has since been given back the baby, who was being kept at the clinic.

On November 11, the woman in question was reported to have abandoned a baby boy at Tulemane Clinic after giving birth.

A search was then instituted to find the mother.

Third International Conference on Public Health in Africa Addresses Global Health Challenges

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Third International Conference on Public Health in Africa Addresses Global Health Challenges

Yesterday marked the commencement of the Third International Conference on Public Health in Africa 2023, inaugurated at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka. Themed ‘Breaking Barriers: Repositioning Africa in the Global Health Architecture,’ the conference provided a vital platform for African leaders to collectively address common health challenges, with a focus on pandemic preparedness for the continent.

President Hakainde Hichilema, in attendance at the opening ceremony, emphasized the critical need for a continental approach to public health, particularly in disease control, prevention, and detection. The interconnected nature of the modern world underscores the absence of territorial boundaries in health, as underscored by the global impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Encouraging collaborative efforts, President Hichilema highlighted the importance of fostering equity and fairness in health outcomes, especially in the realms of research and development, diagnostics, and vaccines. The President noted Africa’s progress in producing Covid-19 vaccines, reinforcing the significance of continental disease preparedness for collective health security.

Delegates and stakeholders from across Africa and even as far as the Caribbean Islands attended the conference, a testament to the global collaboration required to address pressing health issues collectively. President Hichilema warmly welcomed the international participants to Zambia.

On the sidelines of the conference, President Hichilema engaged in bilateral talks with Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO). The discussions covered key topics ranging from access to safe water and sanitation to support for local manufacturing of medicines and vaccines in Zambia.

President Hichilema also took a moment to celebrate Dr. Tedros for being awarded the Africa CDC Lifetime Achievement in Public Health. Describing him as a true champion of global health, President Hichilema extended his congratulations to Dr. Tedros for his significant contributions.

The Third International Conference on Public Health in Africa 2023 aims to be a catalyst for collaborative efforts, paving the way for comprehensive and sustainable solutions to global health challenges.

Government on course to resolve energy crisis – Mumba

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Government on course to resolve energy crisis – Mumba

Government says with the interventions being implemented through the Presidential Delivery Unit on Energy challenges in the country’s energy sector will be resolved soon.

Energy Permanent Secretary Peter Mumba said the energy sector is faced with a lot of challenges that are affecting energy delivery to the people especially rural areas.

Mr. Mumba noted that the challenges affecting the energy sector includes low water levels, poor rainfall, and poor access to power by a substantial section of the population.

The Permanent Secretary , who was speaking during the official opening of the Energy Lab in Lusaka, added that the energy sector is also faced with the challenge of slow delivery of projects, unattractive tariffs and sector bottlenecks.

“ The Ministry of Energy is already working on addressing some of these challenges through the review and enhancement of regulations aimed at addressing the bottlenecks in the sector, increasing access to energy and access to alternative sources of energy among others, “ he said.

Mr. Mumba expressed optimism that the initiatives will guarantee energy safety in the country and further that the PDU will unlock the sector and Improve energy delivery projects.

And speaking at the same event, Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation ZESCO Managing Director Victor Mapani said hid Corporation will have to synchronize its activities in order to improve the infrastructure and thus increase access to power from the current 42%.

He said the corporation would like to get actionable tasks from the lab, which they can implement in order to bridge the power deficit in the country.

And represented by his Chief Executive Officer Linus Chanda, Rural Electrification Authority (REA ) Director Alex Buumba pledges his Authority’s support of any action plans emerging from the Lab.

Mr. Buumba hoped that the discussions from the Lab will result into actions that will improve the sector.

Meanwhile, Energy Regulations Board (ERB ) Director General Yohan Mukabe added that the Board is working hard to remove barriers to investment in the sector, including regulatory reviews, Streamlining the licensing processes and finalising tariff reviews among others.

And Head of the Presidential Delivery Unit Kusobile Kamwambi explained that the PDU has brought together key stakeholders in the sectors in order for them to discuss and come up with solutions that will help unlock the sector and Improve the availability and reliability of energy supply.

The Lab which started yesterday is expected to run for the rest of the week and has drawn participation from various players in the energy sector.

Attorney General Inaugurates Chipata Office to Advance Access to Justice

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Attorney General Inaugurates Chipata Office to Advance Access to Justice

Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha announced the official opening of the Attorney General’s office in Chipata as part of the ongoing decentralization efforts to strengthen the principle of justice as an inherent right for all citizens, regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic status.

Speaking at the inauguration, Kabesha highlighted that the establishment of the Chipata office aimed to streamline processes related to Constituency Development Funds (CDF) contracts. The provincial office would now handle these matters, facilitating quicker vetting and processing without the need for travel to Lusaka.

“Constituency Development Funds contracts will now be vetted and worked on from here in Chipata, thereby cutting down on transport and time that was spent traveling to Lusaka,” Kabesha explained.

He emphasized that the launch of the provincial office marked a significant step in the government’s commitment to ensuring equal access to justice. The move to bring legal aid services closer to communities reflects the government’s dedication to empowering marginalized populations and fostering inclusivity within the legal system.

Thandiwe Daka Oteng, the Ministry Permanent Secretary in charge of Administration, also spoke at the event. She expressed that the newly established office would actively engage with the local community to develop partnerships and programs promoting legal awareness, education, and conflict resolution.

“Our aim is not merely to adjudicate disputes but to prevent them from happening through legal advocacy and education,” Oteng stated.

Addressing legal practitioners associated with the office, she urged them to approach their roles with empathy, ensuring that justice is fair for all.

Paramount Chief Mpezeni, represented by Chief Mnukwa, expressed satisfaction with the development, emphasizing the government’s seriousness about improving and maintaining justice, law, and order. Chief Mnukwa also took the opportunity to call for national unity and peace.

Eastern Province Permanent Secretary Paul Thole and other officials attended the event, marking a significant stride in the government’s commitment to justice accessibility.

UPND will not shield law breakers- Banda

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UPND will not shield law breakers- Banda

William Banda, Special Assistant to the President of the United Party for National Development (UPND), reiterated the party’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, asserting that no party member involved in unlawful activities would be shielded. Banda emphasized that President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to eliminating cadreism also extended to ensuring that no member was protected if found guilty of breaking the law.

During a visit to Kabompo, Banda met with Kabompo District Commissioner Hubert Chinyanga. The purpose of the visit, according to Banda, was to instill and maintain discipline within party ranks while understanding the challenges faced in different regions.

Banda emphasized the government’s determination to prevent the recurrence of past wrongs, stating that even UPND members engaging in misconduct would not receive protection. He asserted that the party would not interfere with law enforcement and the judiciary, emphasizing that the law would take its course without bias.

Kabompo District Commissioner Chinyanga expressed gratitude for the visit, seeing it as a demonstration of the party and President Hichilema’s genuine concern for the people’s interests. He acknowledged the optimism in the region, especially regarding various developmental projects.

UPND Kabompo District Chair Lady Grace Mazaka expressed appreciation for the historic appointment of Kabompo Member of Parliament Ambrose Lufuma as Defense Minister. She highlighted the positive impact of increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF), which rose from K 1.6 million to K 28.3 million. Despite the successes, she appealed for monthly party funding, emphasizing its importance for organizational activities.

Esther Lungu’s trial commences

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Esther Lungu’s trial commences

Trial has begun with one witness in a matter where former First Lady Esther Lungu is slapped with five counts of theft and possession of Four Hundred Thousand dollars suspected to be proceeds of crime.

In this case, Mrs. Lungu is jointly charged with police officers James Phiri and Lee Chisulo, respectively.

Others in the case includes Kapembwa Lungu and Catherine Banda.

Ms. Elizerbeth Phiri, a witness has testified that in August 2022 she was invited at the former Head of State’s house Edgar Lungu.Ms. Phiri told the court that when she reached, Mr. Lungu started explaining that he had a US $ 4000 which he gave his wife Esther Lungu to keep.

She said Mr.Lungu explained that when he requested the money from her, she said that she gave Catherine Banda ( Mr.Lungu’s niece ) to keep but when the said Ms. Banda was asked to return the money, she allegedly revealed that she gave US $ 3000 to Ms. Phiri.

Ms.Phiri said she refused to have received such amount of money from her ( Ms. Banda ) adding that she has never touched such an amount in her life.

“I only know Catherine Banda as my client who came to seek spiritual healing because I am an herbalist, hence I cannot receive such an amount from her,” Ms.Phiri said.

She told the court that Mr.Lungu said that he did not believe that his niece really gave her such an amount because it was not adding up.

Ms.Phiri testified that after Mr.Lungu had left, Mrs. Lungu remained behind asking for her name and phone number.

Mrs. Lungu, said the witness, later told the officers that she looked confused and should be taken home.

After she was taken home, the following day in the morning around 08 :00 hours, Ms.Phiri received a phone call from Mrs.Lungu asking her to go at her apartment in Ibex, and she asked her daughter, Phahana Patel to escort her.

She told the court that when she reached Ibex with her daughter, Ms Lungu told her that she wants her money which she still denied having received from Catherine Banda.

Ms.Phiri said that Ms.Lungu told her to just Trial has begun with one witness in a matter where former First Lady Esther Lungu is slapped with five counts of theft and possession of Four Hundred Thousand dollars suspected to be proceeds of crime.

In this case, Mrs. Lungu is jointly charged with police officers James Phiri and Lee Chisulo, respectively.

Others in the case includes Kapembwa Lungu and Catherine Banda.

Ms. Elizerbeth Phiri, a witness has testified that in August 2022 she was invited at the former Head of State’s house Edgar Lungu.

Ms. Phiri told the court that when she reached, Mr. Lungu started explaining that he had a US $ 4000 which he gave his wife Esther Lungu to keep.

She said Mr.Lungu explained that when he requested the money from her, she said that she gave Catherine Banda ( Mr.Lungu’s niece ) to keep but when the said Ms. Banda was asked to return the money, she allegedly revealed that she gave US $ 3000 to Ms. Phiri.

Ms.Phiri said she refused to have received such amount of money from her ( Ms. Banda ) adding that she has never touched such an amount in her life.

“I only know Catherine Banda as my client who came to seek spiritual healing because I am an herbalist, hence I cannot receive such an amount from her,” Ms.Phiri said.

She told the court that Mr.Lungu said that he did not believe that his niece really gave her such an amount because it was not adding up.

Ms.Phiri testified that after Mr.Lungu had left, Mrs. Lungu remained behind asking for her name and phone number.

Mrs. Lungu, said the witness, later told the officers that she looked confused and should be taken home.

After she was taken home, the following day in the morning around 08 :00 hours, Ms.Phiri received a phone call from Mrs.Lungu asking her to go at her apartment in Ibex, and she asked her daughter, Phahana Patel to escort her.

She told the court that when she reached Ibex with her daughter, Ms Lungu told her that she wants her money which she still denied having received from Catherine Banda.

Ms.Phiri said that Ms.Lungu told her to just agree that Banda gave her the money and asked her what she ( Phiri ) bought using her money.

She told the court that the things Ms. Banda mentioned were a House in Libala, Canter, Toyota Runix and Anex cars which she claims were bought using her own money.

Ms.Phiri said that she was being forced to agree to everything with the officers threatening her together with her daughter that they were going to face the wrath of the law.

She further told the court that Mrs Lungu started called James Phiri , who was the driver, Kapambwe Lungu and Lee Chisulo and told them to go with her and bring all the above mentioned items which were allegedly suspected to have been bought using Mrs. Lungu’s money.

Ms. Phiri said that she got on a vehicle with Mr. Kapambwe with a pistol pointed at her and the driver was Mr. Phiri and went to get the canter in Chalala and drove it up to Lewanika mall, and then later saw her daughter Phahana Patel with her two vehicles which they also got from her.

“Ms.Lungu got two vehicles Runx and Anex with their white books belonging to my daughter and a title deed of my house in Libala and my Canter,” Ms.Phiri told the court.

She told the court that after getting the properties from them, they were released at mid night and reached home somewhere around 01:00 hours.

Ms. Phiri told the court that she again received a call from Mrs. Lungu inviting them home and when she went there with her daughter, Mrs. Lungu started telling them that her money was a lot and she cannot just lose it like that and later left them at her apartment in Ibex.

Mrs. Lungu later came back around 01: 00 hours with her lawyer and two copies for them to sign, she told the court.

“I begged her that my sight is poor at night so I cannot see properly maybe if I can look at it tomorrow in the morning and I also told her that am not educated and I will appreciate if you can read and interpret for me so that I can understand but she refused,” Ms. Phiri said.

The court heard that after the officers threatened her together with her daughter , she ended up signing the copies in duress before she and her daughter were released around 01:00 hours.

Ms. Phiri testified that after she recovered from her trauma, she started asking for advice from people explaining what happened to her and that is how she was advised to go to police headquarters where she was counselled.

agree that Banda gave her the money and asked her what she ( Phiri ) bought using her money.

She told the court that the things Ms. Banda mentioned were a House in Libala, Canter, Toyota Runix and Anex cars which she claims were bought using her own money.

Ms.Phiri said that she was being forced to agree to everything with the officers threatening her together with her daughter that they were going to face the wrath of the law.

She further told the court that Mrs Lungu started called James Phiri , who was the driver, Kapambwe Lungu and Lee Chisulo and told them to go with her and bring all the above mentioned items which were allegedly suspected to have been bought using Mrs. Lungu’s money.

Ms. Phiri said that she got on a vehicle with Mr. Kapambwe with a pistol pointed at her and the driver was Mr. Phiri and went to get the canter in Chalala and drove it up to Lewanika mall, and then later saw her daughter Phahana Patel with her two vehicles which they also got from her.

“Ms.Lungu got two vehicles Runx and Anex with their white books belonging to my daughter and a title deed of my house in Libala and my Canter,” Ms.Phiri told the court.

She told the court that after getting the properties from them, they were released at mid night and reached home somewhere around 01:00 hours.

Ms. Phiri told the court that she again received a call from Mrs. Lungu inviting them home and when she went there with her daughter, Mrs. Lungu started telling them that her money was a lot and she cannot just lose it like that and later left them at her apartment in Ibex.

Mrs. Lungu later came back around 01: 00 hours with her lawyer and two copies for them to sign, she told the court.

“I begged her that my sight is poor at night so I cannot see properly maybe if I can look at it tomorrow in the morning and I also told her that am not educated and I will appreciate if you can read and interpret for me so that I can understand but she refused,” Ms. Phiri said.

The court heard that after the officers threatened her together with her daughter , she ended up signing the copies in duress before she and her daughter were released around 01:00 hours.

Ms. Phiri testified that after she recovered from her trauma, she started asking for advice from people explaining what happened to her and that is how she was advised to go to police headquarters where she was counselled.

Dr Rajan Mahtani gives evidence against Atlas Mara in London trial

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Dr Rajan Mahtani gives evidence against Atlas Mara in London trial

Former Barclays Boss Bob Diamond Faces Lawsuit Over Zambian Bank Takeover

The High Court in London is hearing a case against Atlas Mara, the company founded by former Barclays boss Bob Diamond, over allegations that it attempted to diminish the value of Zambia’s Finance Bank ahead of a takeover. Dr. Rajan Mahtani, the founder of Finance Bank Zambia (FBZ), initiated the lawsuit, claiming that Atlas Mara breached the terms of the acquisition agreement, and is seeking damages of up to $100 million (£80 million).

Dr. Mahtani, who established FBZ in 1986, agreed to the takeover by Atlas Mara to secure the future of the bank as his daughters had no interest in running the firm. The bank, with 73 branches and over 1,100 employees, was considered one of the most successful in Zambia.

At the heart of the dispute is Atlas Mara’s alleged attempt to reduce the value of FBZ by identifying faults and regulatory issues. The court heard that Atlas Mara had initially offered approximately US$215.4 million for FBZ, with US$135.3 million and an “earn-out” of US$80 million.

During the trial, Dr. Mahtani denied withholding regulatory concerns from the Zambian national Bank (BoZ) before the sale’s completion date. The BoZ audit found that FBZ’s subsidiary, FBS, was under-capitalized by over 30 million Kwacha (around US$4.5 million in 2015), a finding Dr. Mahtani disputed as having no impact on the sale price.

Atlas Mara accused Dr. Mahtani of suppressing information about FBS’s under-capitalization, and internal emails were presented to the court, suggesting that Atlas Mara was not informed until May, months after the BoZ inspection.

Dr. Mahtani defended his actions, stating that Atlas Mara was conducting its due diligence and was aware of the regulatory issues. He claimed that Atlas Mara’s objections were an attempt to bring down the sale price by “finding fault in everything.”

This legal battle adds another chapter to Bob Diamond’s career, following his departure from Barclays in 2012 amid an interbank rate-fixing scandal. Atlas Mara, co-founded by Diamond, was set up to acquire banks in Africa.

The hearing is expected to conclude before Christmas.

Source: Nick Forbes
Central News UK

Red Arrows Accept Shortcomings in Loss at Kansanshi

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Red Arrows coach Chisi Mbewe says the Airmen have no excuse for losing to struggling Kansanshi Dynamos in Sunday’s away FAZ Super Division match at Nchanga Stadium in Chingola.

Arrows surrendered a first half lead to lose the Week 13 match 2-1 and relinquish the top spot.

Mbewe said Arrows must blame themselves for losing the match.

“I feel we just have to blame ourselves for losing this game. I think we started well, we created clear cut chances but we failed to convert,” he said.

“We allowed Kansanshi to come on us. Congratulations to Kansanshi, they looked like they wanted this game the most. It is a disappointing result for us. We were a little bit reluctant. We told the boys not to underrate Kansanshi,” Mbewe said.

Arrows have dropped to number four with 22 points from 13 matches played.

Kansanshi interim coach Donwell Yobe hailed his players for edging Arrows.

“We had planned for the game. I must say the boys were fantastic in executing the game plan we had set for the Red Arrows. I give credit to the boys for this victory. It is a step of many to come,” Yobe said.

Kansanshi are 12th on the table with 15 points from 13 matches.

FAZ SUPER LEAGUE WEEK 13

25/11/2023

Green Buffaloes 0-0 Mutondo Stars

Zesco United 3-1 Nkana

Kansanshi Dynamos 2-1 Red Arrows

Nkwazi 1-1 Trident

24/11/2023

Kabwe Warriors 0-1 ZANACO

Konkola Blades 1-1 Forest Rangers

Green Eagles 3-0 NAPSA Stars

Power Dynamos 1-1 FC MUZA

Prison Leopards 2-0 Mufulira Wanderers

Chief Mumena Calls for Pre-Marital GBV Education as 16 Days of Activism Commence

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Chief Mumena Calls for Pre-Marital GBV Education as 16 Days of Activism Commence

Chief Mumena of the Kaonde people in Kalumbila district, North-western province, has advocated for comprehensive pre-marital teachings on gender-based violence (GBV) as part of efforts to combat this social issue. The chief made these remarks during the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV under the theme “Unite! Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women and Girls.”

Chief Mumena emphasized the need for both males and females to undergo robust pre-marital education against GBV, believing it would contribute significantly to healthier marriages. He further urged a collective commitment to abstain from violence during the 16 days of activism.

During the event held at his palace, Chief Mumena disclosed the existence of a GBV One-Stop Centre near his palace and called for the establishment of such centers in every village to combat the scourge effectively.

“We have a GBV center here; we want a village-led GBV One-Stop center in every village to stop the GBV scourge,” he asserted.

In addition to educational initiatives, Chief Mumena recommended the integration of arts into GBV sensitization programs to enhance the communication of anti-GBV messages.

Jessy Liswaniso, a representative from the Non-Governmental Organizations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC), highlighted the disproportionate impact of GBV on women and girls, reinforcing the urgent need for collective action and increased resources for GBV prevention.

While commending the government’s initiative to review the Anti-Gender Based Violence Act No.1 of 2011, Liswaniso stressed the severity of GBV as a national crisis, affecting various aspects of society, including healthcare, education, social protection, justice, and productivity.

Limpo Sishekanu, the Provincial Gender Officer, shared alarming statistics indicating a 31.6% increase in GBV cases nationwide during the second quarter of 2023 compared to the same period in the previous year. She emphasized that GBV poses a public health threat, limiting the potential of individuals and the nation at large.

Provincial Permanent Secretary Colonel Grandson Katambi (Rtd) acknowledged the crucial role of traditional leaders in the fight against GBV, urging them to intensify efforts in sensitizing communities, reporting GBV cases, and enhancing anti-GBV committees.

Colonel Katambi reassured the commitment of the government to collaborate with various stakeholders, including cooperating partners, NGOs, the private sector, and community-based organizations, to strengthen the fight against GBV.

The launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV serves as a rallying point for Zambia to address the complex challenges posed by GBV and prioritize prevention measures before response strategies.

Health Minister Urges Zambians to Embrace Healthy Living to Combat Non-Communicable Diseases

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Health Minister Urges Zambians to Embrace Healthy Living to Combat Non-Communicable Diseases

Health Minister, Sylvia Masebo, has called on citizens to adopt a healthier lifestyle as a proactive measure against non-communicable diseases. Emphasizing the importance of incorporating physical exercises into daily routines, the minister believes that such efforts will alleviate pressure on the country’s health system.

Minister Masebo underscored the significance of regular exercise as a lifestyle choice, stating that it contributes not only to longer life expectancy but also to increased productivity, thereby fostering economic development. As a commitment to promoting wellness, she announced that every ministry event would be preceded by a health-related activity.

The call to action came during a “walk for life” event organized ahead of the 3rd Annual International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA), scheduled to take place in Lusaka from November 27th to 30th, 2023.

Addressing the upcoming conference, Jean Kaseya, Director General of the Africa Center for Disease Control and Prevention, revealed that the event anticipates the participation of over 5,000 delegates from across Africa, with an additional 25,000 expected to join virtually. The summit aims to celebrate Africa’s achievements in addressing public health challenges while recognizing individuals who have significantly contributed to improving the continent’s health outcomes.

Minister Masebo’s advocacy for healthier living aligns with global efforts to prevent and manage non-communicable diseases through lifestyle modifications, emphasizing the critical role of individual choices in public health outcomes.

President Hichilema Joins Mourners to Bid Farewell to His 102 year old Uncle

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President Hichilema Joins Mourners to Bid Farewell to His 102 year old Uncle

On Sunday afternoon, President Hakainde Hichilema, alongside numerous mourners, gathered in the Lutanda area of Bweengwa, Monze District, to lay to rest his late uncle, Paul Lubinga Hibajene. The solemn occasion reflected on the remarkable life of Uncle Hibajene, who reached the biblical age of 102.

President Hichilema, visibly reflective, shared the valuable life lessons gleaned from his late uncle, emphasizing Hibajene’s enduring legacy of hard work, honesty, and integrity. While the physical presence is no more, the principles instilled by the senior citizen will continue to resonate.

Expressing gratitude for the time spent with Uncle Hibajene, President Hichilema extended a heartfelt call for unity among families across the nation. The funeral drew mourners from various parts of the country, symbolizing the shared grief and respect for the departed.

In a message of spiritual reflection, President Hichilema invoked a traditional blessing, “Leza utwelekela mazuba katwembela lyonse tonse,” translating to “God be with us as we mourn together.” The President affectionately bid farewell, saying, “Awe mudala Lubinga oone mulumuno mudala,” recognizing the enduring impact of Uncle Lubinga.

The funeral ceremony, marked by both sorrow and celebration of a life well-lived, underscores the importance of family, shared values, and the collective strength found in unity. As President Hichilema and the mourners paid their final respects, the legacy of Uncle Paul Lubinga Hibajene echoes as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

Sierra Leone President Declares Control After Barracks Attack; Arrests Made

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Sierra Leone President Declares Control After Barracks Attack; Arrests Made

President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone declared that most of the leaders behind the attack on a military barracks in Freetown had been apprehended, emphasizing that security operations and investigations were ongoing. The incident occurred earlier on Sunday when “renegade soldiers” attempted to break into a military armoury, prompting a nationwide curfew and gunfire across the city.

President Bio assured the nation of accountability for those responsible, stating, “We will ensure that those responsible are held accountable.” He addressed the nation on television, declaring that the challenge had been overcome, and calm had been restored.

The assailants targeted a military barracks, prison, and a police station during the early hours of Sunday, leading to a nationwide curfew. While the government reported that security forces repelled the attack, details on casualties were not immediately clear. Former President Ernest Bai Koroma condemned the barracks attack and revealed that a military guard at his residence was shot point blank.

President Bio, re-elected in June amid contested results, called for unity among political, traditional leaders, and civil society to preserve peace. The West African country has experienced tension since the election, with international partners questioning the electoral process.

Information Minister Chernor Bah stated that security forces were progressing in apprehending the attackers, and a video on social media purportedly showed three detained individuals in military custody. Major detention centers, including Pademba Road prisons, were attacked, leading to the release of inmates.

The situation prompted the Economic Community of West African States to condemn the attempt to disturb constitutional order in Sierra Leone. The U.S. embassy in Freetown emphasized that such actions were not justified.

The unrest in Sierra Leone echoes events in August 2022 when anti-government protests resulted in fatalities. President Bio attributed the protests to an attempt to overthrow the government. The recent incident raises concerns about stability in a country still recovering from a civil war that occurred from 1991 to 2002.

The government’s response includes heightened security measures, a nationwide curfew, and efforts to restore order in the wake of the barracks attack and subsequent unrest.

North-West University: Poverty thrives where corruption is high

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North-West University: Poverty thrives where corruption is high

By Bertie Jacobs

“When good governance is sacrificed on the altar of corruption, service delivery falters. Where corruption thrives, as we have seen in many of our municipalities, an increase in poverty becomes inevitable.”

This is according to Prof Kedibone Phago, Director of the North-West University (NWU) School for Government Studies, who explains that corruption is killing the country’s future.

Recent figures suggest that more than 18,2 million South Africans live in extreme poverty in 2023, an increase from the previous year. Projections show that this number will only increase, and corruption is at the heart of this dilemma.

“The essence of corruption is that it diverts resources from their intended use and instead resources are used to serve nefarious agendas. Resources are deliberately exploited to benefit certain individuals or groups rather than the intended beneficiaries. Often, the powerful are involved because it is easier to sweep such corrupt actions under the carpet. We have seen from many reports of the Auditor General and even during the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, also known as the Zondo Commission, that many of the people who enable corruption are in powerful positions, highly educated and sophisticated. This makes it even more difficult from a law enforcement perspective to prosecute. This is especially the case where our law enforcement agencies are deliberately weakened to ensure that their investigative capacity is crippled,” explains Prof Phago.

He goes on to say that: “The effects of corruption are usually devastating, especially to the integrity of governance processes and to the citizens who need public services to lead their lives with dignity. The examples are all around us where there is an annual budget allocation and the government makes a commitment to parliament about spending plans and priorities, without any meaningful implementation of those plans. Even in cases where the Medium-Term Budget Policy Statements are made, they remain a talk show and have no material benefit for citizens. The reality is that citizens in developing countries such as ours need quality services such as education, health, water and sanitation, an effective police force, roads and infrastructure and mobile connectivity, among others. When these basic services are not provided, the dignity of the people is directly affected, which can lead to populist politics.”

The NWU is committed to helping achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which entail the eradication of poverty, the promotion of well-being, access to clean water and sanitation, economic growth and the reduction of inequalities. Therefore, it is imperative to focus on the impact of corruption on communities and to identify ways to curb corruption. The establishment of the National Anti-Corruption Advisory Council (NACAC) is a positive development for the country, which needs to be supported. This body was established on the recommendation of the Zondo Commission.

“Citizens have several options if they want to play a role in stopping corruption. For me, there are two main considerations. The first is the role of parliament in holding the executive authority to account, which remains an important avenue. Citizens need to use their relationship with public representatives in parliament to get involved in such matters. Second, citizens need to be organised, particularly through civil society and non-governmental organisations. When citizens are divided along ethnic, racial, class, language and other lines, they often become susceptible to populist politics. In fact, it is usually populist politicians who exploit these elements to maintain their relevance instead of genuinely exposing corruption and advocating for investment-friendly policies that could help develop the country,” says Prof Phago.

Corruption must be put to the sword if the country is to realise its potential, and it is through engaged, active citizenship that it can be dealt a fatal blow.

Message For Today: Wow!

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Message For Today: Wow!

Today’s Scripture

The God who summons horses and chariots and armies—they lie down and then can’t get up; they’re snuffed out like so many candles: “Forget about what’s happened; don’t keep going over old history. Be alert, be present. I’m about to do something brand-new.”
Isaiah 43:17–19, MSG

Wow!

Friend, In today’s Scripture, God reminded the Israelites who were held captive in Babylon that He opened a way through the Red Sea in the exodus, that He called forth the mighty armies of Pharaoh and drowned them in the waters. “But forget about all of that. It’s nothing compared to what I’m about to do when I bring you out of captivity.” This brand-new thing was going to be far greater than anything they’d seen in the past.

We all can look back and see when God parted Red Seas for us. He’s opened doors that shouldn’t have opened, had us in the right place at the right time to meet someone special, turned our health around. We’re grateful. We know it was the hand of God. But God is saying, “You haven’t seen anything yet. Forget about all that and get ready for something awesome, something that you haven’t seen, something that propels you to a new level.” When you see this new thing, you’re going to stand in amazement and say, “Wow, look what the Lord has done!”

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You for the countless blessings You have brought me and how Your hand has been upon my life in so many ways. Thank You that I can get my hopes up and know that You have something bigger and better than I’ve expected. I stand in awe of Your goodness to me and can only say, ‘wow.’ In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

President Hichilema Breaks Ground for Chiefs’ Palaces, Affirms Commitment to Traditional Leaders

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President Hichilema Breaks Ground for Chiefs’ Palaces, Affirms Commitment to Traditional Leaders

President Hakainde Hichilema led the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of Chiefs’ palaces in Luapula province. The first of these palaces will be erected for His Royal Highness Chief Chimese of Bahati, Mansa, highlighting the government’s commitment to working closely with traditional leaders to enhance their living and working environments.

President Hichilema, speaking at the launch event held at Chief Chimese’s palace, expressed determination to construct palaces across the country without segregation, emphasizing the unity of Zambia as one nation and one people. The President reiterated the crucial role played by traditional leaders in uplifting the lives of all Zambians and stressed the need for their living conditions to align with their significant roles in society.

“As the UPND government, we remain determined and focused on uplifting the lives of all Zambians wherever they are. The traditional leaders play a key role in doing so. As such, their living and working environment must support this role,” President Hichilema affirmed.

Luapula province is set to benefit from 14 palaces out of the 110 planned for construction in the first phase. President Hichilema’s vision encompasses not only the physical structures but also the empowerment and support of traditional leaders in their vital roles.

Acknowledging the natural wonders and resources present in Luapula, including water bodies and pastures, President Hichilema expressed optimism about Zambia’s transformative potential. He called on all citizens to actively participate in the nation’s development, emphasizing that challenges are faced and victories achieved together as one united people.

In addressing the gathering, the President also conveyed the government’s commitment to improving feeder roads, empowering local authorities with increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF). This move aims to decentralize responsibility and enhance local development initiatives.

Local Government Minister Garry Nkombo assured that the government would complete the construction of other chiefs’ palaces that had stalled since 2014. He echoed the President’s call for collaboration between the government and traditional leadership for the benefit of the nation.

Chief Chimese’s spokesperson, James Kunda, expressed gratitude to President Hichilema for choosing to launch the construction of Chiefs’ palaces at Chief Chimese’s palace. He also appealed for attention to the Mansa-Matanda and Mansa-Kalaba roads, emphasizing their importance to the region.

President Hakainde Hichilema led the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of Chiefs’ palaces in Luapula province.
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