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Lusambo appears in court for mention

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Lusambo appears in court for mention
Former Lusaka Province Minister, Bowman Lusambo, was back in court today for mention.
This was before Lusaka Chief Magistrate, Davies Chibwili.
This is in a matter in which Mr. Lusambo is charged with  two counts of being in possession of property deemed to be proceeds of crime.
The details of the matter are that in the first count, Mr. Lusambo, between May 01, 2015 and December 31,2021, allegedly possessed property comprising a single storey four bedroomed house, guest wing, a gazebo and a car shed, all suspected to be proceeds of crime.
 
In the second count, on unknown dates but between May 01, 2015 and December 31,2021 jointly with other persons unknown, Mr. Lusambo possessed six flats in Lusaka’s Chamba Valley also deemed to be proceeds of crime.
 
Magistrate Chibwili has since adjourned the matter to December 20,2023 for another  mention and January 17 2024 for continuation of trial.
 
Mr. Lusambo was arrested in March 2023 and is currently on bail.

President Hichilema dates Italy for a state visit

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President Hichilema dates Italy for a state visit

President Hakainde Hichilema is  tomorrow expected in Rome, Italy for a state visit from the  21st to 22nd November, 2023, at the  invitation of the President of Italy Sergio Mattarella.

President Hichilema’s visit to Italy is aimed at reinforcing strategic bilateral and economic relations between Zambia and Italy, premised on shared values and mutual respect.

This is according to a statement released by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Stanley Kakubo.

Mr. Hichilema is scheduled to hold talks in Rome with President Mattarella, and Prime Minister of Italy Giorgia Meloni, on pertinent issues at bilateral and multilateral levels.

Mr. Hichilema will also meet the heads of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to discuss ways of strengthening collaboration and support in food security, rural development and poverty reduction.

The President is also scheduled to grace the Zambia-Italy Business Forum which will provide a platform to showcase Zambia’s investment potential and opportunities for joint venture collaborations.

He added that other engagements include a tour of Maccaresa Farm, a modern technologically advanced integrated farm whose model could be replicated in Zambia for the benefit of the people.

“President Hichilema’s visit to Italy is underpinned by the Administration’s ongoing efforts to transform the country’s economy and create equitable opportunities for the people in key sectors.  In this regard, this crucial engagement by President Hichilema will consolidate the strong existing ties and enhanced cooperation between Zambia and Italy,” he said.

The President is expected to return to Zambia immediately after his engagements in Italy.

PF constitutional amendments allegations baseless-Mweetwa

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PF constitutional amendments allegations baseless-Mweetwa

The Minister of Information and Media, Cornelius Mweetwa, has refuted allegations that the government is planning to carry out constitutional amendments.

Mr Mweetwa said this in response to recent claims made by a wing of the Patriotic Front (PF) led by Emmanuel Mwamba that the government was planning to make amendments to the current constitution.
Mr Mweetwa has emphasized that the assertions regarding changes to the constitution, particularly concerning the 50% plus 1 provision, the Presidential term extension from 5 to 7 years, and the repeal of the article related to the running mate, are baseless and lack any substantiating evidence.

Speaking in a live broadcast from Ethiopia, Mr Mweetwa acknowledged ongoing discussions about constitutional amendments, initiated by citizens and Members of Parliament.

He highlighted the defects in the 2016 constitution, which was imposed without consensus and resulted in provisions that led to various contradictions.

“One example was the inclusion of a requirement for parliamentary candidates to possess grade 12 certificates, catching some members of the PF off guard, as they were unaware of this provision during the voting process,”said Mr Mweetwa
He said the subsequent exclusion of MPs from participating in local authorities and councils, along with challenges related to the size of constituencies, has prompted calls for constitutional reforms since 2016.

Mr Mweetwa who is also Chief Government Spokesperson stated that MPs have expressed regret over the limitations imposed by the 2016 constitution, particularly regarding their exclusion from local decision-making processes and the administration of Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

“The demand for constitutional amendments has been driven by a desire to address these issues and allow MPs to actively participate in local governance,” said Mr Mweetwa.

He underscored that these discussions reflect the broader sentiment among citizens and members of parliament who have long advocated for constitutional reforms to rectify the perceived defects and limitations of the current constitution.

Miles Sampa Denounces UPND Alliance Claims, Pledges Opposition Vigilance

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Miles Sampa Denounces UPND Alliance Claims, Pledges Opposition Vigilance

Miles Bwalya Sampa has vehemently dismissed recent claims suggesting a potential alliance between PF and the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND). Addressing concerns raised by some propagandists through social media and private messages, Sampa clarified that such assertions were baseless and part of a deliberate misinformation campaign orchestrated by individuals with expired political relevance.

Sampa, in a detailed statement, expressed concern over the persistence of false narratives propagated by former PF leaders whose influence waned after the 2021 elections. He accused them of attempting to sustain a presence in the Zambian political landscape by disseminating lies, alleging that their real motive is to divert attention from their dubious activities, including alleged embezzlement of public funds.

“It’s all lies as it’s them that were about to sell PF to a smaller party for their personal gain. Evidence is in the public domain,” stated Sampa.

The PF President emphasized that his allegiance lies with the principles established by PF founder President Michael Sata. He refuted any claims of discussions aimed at diluting PF, asserting that the party’s ultimate goal is to regain governmental power for the benefit of the Zambian people.

Sampa underscored the importance of PF’s role in opposition, emphasizing its role in providing checks and balances on the ruling UPND. He stated unequivocally that an alliance with UPND, especially during his tenure as PF President, is impossible.

“We have an emotional and inescapable duty to one day get the PF back into government where Michael Sata left the boat and hijackers carelessly got it removed from power. This happened purely due to their greed, corruption, and sponsorship of violent cadres into public domains like markets and bus stations,” Sampa affirmed.

The PF President urged genuine party members to disregard the propaganda and remain focused on the party’s objectives. He assured them that PF in opposition serves a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of Zambians.

The statement concluded by acknowledging the possibility that if it is not in the current leadership’s destiny to return PF to power, a future PF leader will eventually achieve that goal. The commitment to the party’s principles and its founder’s vision remains unwavering.

Tribalism & Regionalism; How governments have ignored or tackled it….

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Tribalism & Regionalism; How governments have ignored or tackled it….

Excerpts from my book:

Most of us have often echoed the “One Zambia, One Nation” mantra, with much aplomb, in meetings, at political rallies or during school assemblies, well at least this was a must immediately after our country gained Independence from British colonial rule, without bothering to interrogate what prompted our fore fathers, first Republican President Dr. Kenneth Kaunda and his colleagues, to craft such a progressive and unifying slogan.

Our country boasts of a total of 73 tribal or ethnic groupings each with a diverse cultural and traditional orientation. This would obviously present immediate challenges to the new government after independence. The ethnic tentions which had been building up for months prior to independence would fast rear up its ugly head thus threatening to tear apart the new nation. This would boil to a climax as the heroes of the liberation struggle, the United Nation Independence Party (UNIP) gathered in Chilenje, Lusaka for its national council early February, 1968.

The atmosphere was quite tense and highly charged as delegates sat according to their ethnic and regional orientation. During the next few days of the conference, delegates quarreled and traded insults openly. A stunned Kaunda sat on the podium and watched quietly as these unfortunate events unfolded, dramatically. When it was finally his turn to speak, Kaunda could not hide his utter disgust and consternation at the shameful tribalism he had just witnessed!

“I am left with no choice, but to resign immediately!” he announced and stormed out of the gathering.

The conference delegates were shocked! According to former freedom fighter, Sikota Wina, in his book, “A Night without a President,” it had to take a combined effort of top military commanders, top religious leaders and closest family friends to prevail upon Kaunda to rescind his decision.
In the days that lay ahead, Kaunda faced a Herculean task of fostering national unity to appease expectant citizens eager to see the benefits of freedom. This prompted Kaunda and his colleagues to craft the “One Zambia; One Nation” motto as a way of fostering national unity and setting up the stage of a more prosperous nation.

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

President Hichilema Engages German Chancellor in Bilateral Talks at G20 Summit

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President Hichilema Engages German Chancellor in Bilateral Talks at G20 Summit

President Hakainde Hichilema, attending the 5th G20 Compact with Africa (CwA) Summit in Berlin, held bilateral talks with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz to explore avenues for strengthened cooperation between Zambia and Germany. The discussions, held on the margins of the summit, delved into potential German participation in infrastructure projects and the encouragement of German businesses to invest in value addition within Zambia’s agriculture sector.

Chancellor Scholz expressed Germany’s readiness to engage in infrastructure initiatives, aligning with Zambia’s efforts to bolster its economic development. President Hichilema, in turn, urged German investors to explore opportunities in enhancing the value chain of Zambia’s agricultural sector.

The leaders also emphasized the historical bilateral relations shared by the two nations and expressed their commitment to further deepening cooperation across various domains. The discussions aimed at creating mutual partnerships for the benefit of the people of Zambia.

President Hichilema’s visit to Germany aligns with his economic diplomacy agenda, seeking trade and investment opportunities for Zambia. The G20 Compact with Africa Conference is a crucial platform for attracting private investment by improving conditions for sustainable business growth and infrastructure development in African countries.

The conference, initiated under Germany’s G20 presidency in 2017, focuses on partnership approaches to implement reforms and enhance macroeconomic, business, and financing environments. Zambia’s participation in the G20 Compact with Africa initiative marks its first involvement, underscoring the country’s recent economic transformation agenda.

State House Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka highlighted the significance of Zambia’s participation, emphasizing the country’s natural resources, youthful population, and stable political climate as attractive factors for private investment. The conference provides an opportunity for Zambia to showcase its potential to the international community, attracting investments in various sectors, including infrastructure.

President Hichilema’s economic policy reform agenda is to steer Zambia toward increased participation in global economic forums, fostering partnerships, and unlocking opportunities for sustainable development.

Grant Hails Chipolopolo’s Winning Start

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Zambia Coach Avram Grant has hailed Chipolopolo’s winning start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.

Chipolopolo last night thrashed Congo Brazzaville 4-2 in their opening Group E home match at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

In a post-match comment, Grant said Zambia performed well and deserved to beat Congo.

The Israeli coach added that Zambia were mentally stronger as they managed to recover from a 2-1 deficit to win 4-2.

“I saw a lot of good mentality, a lot of good football especially in the second half. We started the game well, we were leading 1-0 but we slept a little bit and they scored two fantastic goals and they are a good team Congo,” Grant said.

“In the second half, we dominated the game completely and this is a game that could have ended even in more goals. We missed good chances and they also missed two good chances but we deserve the win,” he said.

Congo coach Isaacs Ngata said his players had fatigue after arriving in Zambia 14 hours before kickoff.

Ngata demanded improvement from his team.

“It is true we came late and it was difficult for the players to adapt in this situation,” he said.

Meanwhile, Zambia is preparing to face Niger in their next Group E match in three days

Fresh Fish on the Grill

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Fresh Fish on the Grill

Today’s Scripture

When they got there, they found breakfast waiting for them—fish cooking over a charcoal fire, and some bread.
John 21:9, NLT

Fresh Fish on the Grill

Friend, in John 21, Peter and some of the other disciples had fished all night and caught nothing. The next morning, they did not recognize Jesus on the beach when He shouted, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat.” When they did, they caught so many fish that they couldn’t pull in the net. Peter then realized it was Jesus, and when he got to the shore, he found Jesus was grilling fish. What Peter couldn’t catch all night, now he not only had a boatload of fish, but Jesus had already prepared breakfast for him.

When nothing is working for you and you’re tempted to wonder where God is, can I tell you that He’s cooking your fish? If you keep doing the right thing, God is not only going to give you an abundance, but you will come into some prepared blessings. Can you smell the freshly grilled fish? Promotion is waiting for you, the right people, the business, the healing. You’re about to see what God is cooking up for you.

A Prayer for Today

“Father, thank You that You are not only the God of abundance but that You cook breakfast for us. Thank You for Your promise that as I keep doing the right thing, blessings are headed my way, tracking me down and overtaking me. I believe that I am coming into some prepared blessings. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

[Joel Osteen]

IDC CEO Urges State-Owned Companies to Boost Efficiency and Profitability

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IDC CEO Urges State-Owned Companies to Boost Efficiency and Profitability

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) is calling on state-owned enterprises to prioritize efficiency, reliability, and profitability to become pillars of national pride. During a visit to the ZAFFICO Pole Treatment Plant in Kalulushi on Saturday, IDC Chief Executive Officer Cornwell Muleya emphasized the need for government-owned firms to actively invest in initiatives that enhance their financial performance.

With over 30 state-owned companies falling under the IDC portfolio, Muleya stressed the importance of these entities becoming flagbearers for Zambia’s economic development. He applauded the operations of ZAFFICO, highlighting the company’s significant contribution to the Zambian economy since its establishment in 1962.

“I am very impressed with the operations of ZAFFICO. Having learned about its long history since 1962, they have been around, producing material for the economy of Zambia since that time,” said Mr. Muleya. “We want all state-owned enterprises to be the pride of our country.”

ZAFFICO Managing Director Mundia Mundia echoed the commitment to value addition in timber production, revealing an investment of over $3 million to establish a kiln aimed at expediting the drying process for poles.

“We have invested in excess of $3 million to set up the kiln that would help us dry our poles as quickly as possible,” Mr. Mundia explained.

Alleged Fraudulent Land Scheme Targeting Archbishop Millingo Foiled

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Alleged Fraudulent Land Scheme Targeting Archbishop Millingo Foiled

In a startling revelation, Patriotic Front (PF) President Miles Bwalya Sampa has brought to light an audacious attempt to defraud Archbishop Emmanuel Millingo of his farmland, a gift bestowed by Zambia’s founding father, Kenneth Kaunda (KK), in the 1970s.

Sampa, who visited the revered Archbishop yesterday, expressed his dismay over the discovery that unscrupulous individuals had allegedly faked Millingo’s National Registration Card (NRC) and proceeded to apply for a replacement title deed for the valuable farmland.

The Ministry of Lands, responsible for overseeing land-related matters, unwittingly fell victim to the purported fraud, removing the caveat on Millingo’s land and initiating the process of issuing a new title deed. If successful, the next step in the scheme could have led to the unauthorized sale of the Archbishop’s property, potentially resulting in his eviction.

Sampa condemned the heartlessness of those behind the attempted fraud, questioning how such a malicious act could be orchestrated against someone as esteemed as Archbishop Millingo. He pledged to investigate the Ministry of Lands, seeking answers on how the fraudulent activity nearly materialized.

Expressing concern for the broader implications, Sampa highlighted the vulnerability of ordinary citizens who may face similar threats to their land ownership. He criticized the Ministry of Lands, suggesting that not only is reform required but also a spiritual cleansing to rid the institution of deep-rooted corruption.

Sampa vowed to protect Archbishop Millingo from any harm, declaring that such nefarious activities would not be tolerated. He called for a comprehensive inquiry into the alleged fraud, stressing the need to safeguard the rights and properties of both prominent figures and ordinary citizens alike.

The revelation has sparked concerns about the security of land tenure in Zambia, prompting calls for heightened scrutiny and measures to ensure the integrity of land transactions and property rights.

ZESCO Unveils $89 Million Solar Project and Explores Alternative Energy Sources

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ZESCO Unveils $89 Million Solar Project and Explores Alternative Energy Sources

Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO) has announced a bold initiative to invest in alternative energy sources, with an $89 million Solar Project taking center stage. Victor Mapani, the Managing Director of ZESCO, revealed the utility firm’s ambitious plans to diversify its energy generation portfolio, considering solar, nuclear, and geo-thermal options.

Addressing the media in Lusaka, Mapani outlined that the investment in alternative energy aligns with ZESCO’s Strategic Plan for the period 2023 to 2032. The Solar Project, costing $89 million, represents a significant step in embracing sustainable and eco-friendly energy solutions.

In addition to solar, ZESCO is actively exploring nuclear and geo-thermal sources as part of its long-term energy strategy. Mapani emphasized the importance of seeking diverse and environmentally conscious alternatives to meet the growing energy demands of the nation.

Furthermore, Mapani highlighted ZESCO’s commitment to unlocking the potential of the Northern Circuit for hydropower generation. The region’s abundant rainfall pattern positions it as a promising area for harnessing hydropower resources, contributing to the country’s energy self-sufficiency.

On the financial front, Mapani provided an update on ZESCO’s efforts to settle outstanding debts, revealing that the corporation has paid $600 million of the $1.7 billion owed to private power generators as of December 2021. This financial commitment underscores ZESCO’s dedication to honoring its obligations and fostering sustainable relationships within the energy sector.

Copper Queens Goalkeeper Hazel Nali Returns Home After Successful Knee Surgery

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Copper Queens Goalkeeper Hazel Nali Returns Home After Successful Knee Surgery

Zambia’s national women’s football team, the Copper Queens, received a boost with the return of their first-choice goalkeeper, Hazel Nali, who arrived in the country from New Zealand. Nali underwent a successful knee surgery, and her return marks a positive step in her recovery journey.

The goalkeeper landed at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport at 15:40 hours, expressing her eagerness to return to the pitch. In a statement to ZNBC News, Nali shared that her doctors recommended continuing physiotherapy sessions in Zambia as part of her rehabilitation process.

“I cannot wait to get back on the pitch,” Nali exclaimed, expressing her gratitude to the Government, the Football Association of Zambia, and her fans for their unwavering support during her medical journey.

Highlighting the commitment to Nali’s well-being, Zambia’s High Commissioner to Australia and New Zealand, Elias Munshya, revealed that the government covered the cost of the surgery and arranged for some physiotherapy sessions. Munshya conveyed the government’s optimism about Nali’s swift and full recovery, expressing hope that she would soon rejoin the squad and contribute to Zambia’s football success.

Nali’s return is anticipated to boost the morale of the Copper Queens as they continue their preparations for upcoming competitions.

President Hakainde Hichilema to undertake official visits to Germany and Italy

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President Hakainde Hichilema to undertake official visits to Germany and Italy

At the invitation of His Excellency Mr. Olaf Scholz, Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia will on Saturday 18th November, 2023 travel to Germany to attend the 5th Conference on the G20 Compact with Africa scheduled for 20th November, 2023, in Berlin, Germany.
The President will immediately after his engagements in Berlin undertake a State Visit to Italy from 21st to 22nd November, 2023, following an invitation from His Excellency Mr. Sergio Mattarella, President of Italy.
During the conference in Berlin, President Hichilema is expected to participate in discussions centered on the energy sector in relation to trade and investment opportunities in African emerging markets, intensified cooperation, as well as strengthened economic cooperation and promotion of private sector investment. On the margins of the meeting, the President will hold bilateral talks with other leaders on matters of mutual interest.
The Compact with Africa, which was launched under the German G20 Presidency in 2017, has established itself as the key format for dialogue and cooperation between reform-oriented African countries, G20 partners and beyond. This year’s conference will be preceded by an Investment Summit. President Hichilema’s attendance is crucial as the meeting will provide an opportunity to consolidate the Government’s ongoing efforts to unlock the country’s economy through forging meaningful partnerships for collaboration, particularly in investment and trade for the benefit of the people of Zambia.
On 21st November, 2023, President Hichilema will undertake a State Visit to Italy aimed at reinforcing strategic bilateral and economic relations between Zambia and Italy, premised on shared values and mutual respect.
The President is scheduled to hold talks in Rome with President Mattarella, and Her Excellency Ms. Giorgia Meloni, Prime Minister of Italy on pertinent issues at bilateral and multilateral levels. The President will also meet the heads of the Food and Agriculture Organisation and International Fund for Agricultural Development to discuss ways of strengthening collaboration and support in food security, rural development and poverty reduction.
Additionally, the President will grace the Zambia-Italy Business Forum which will provide a platform to showcase Zambia’s investment potential and opportunities for joint venture collaborations. Other engagements lined up during the visit include a tour of Maccaresa Farm, a modern technologically advanced integrated farm whose model could be replicated in Zambia for the benefit of the people.
President Hichilema’s visit to Italy is underpinned by the Administration’s ongoing efforts to transform the country’s economy and create equitable opportunities for the people in key sectors. In this regard, this crucial engagement by President Hichilema will consolidate the strong existing ties and enhanced cooperation between Zambia and Italy.
The President is expected to return to Zambia immediately after his engagements in Italy.

Hon. Stanley K. Kakubo, M.P
MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION
Charter House
Lusaka
18th November, 2023

Authorities Uncover 22,600 Bags of Mealie Meal in Chililabombwe

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Authorities Uncover 22,600 Bags of Mealie Meal in Chililabombwe

A joint team of law enforcement officers, comprising Zambia Police and Zambia National Services (ZNS), discovered a staggering 22,600 bags of mealie meal in Chililabombwe’s PP Zambia Compound. The large quantity of mealie meal, each weighing 25 kilograms, was confiscated in the early hours of Friday, raising concerns about potential smuggling activities to the neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The seizure occurred as the officers conducted an operation in response to suspicions of illegal activities related to mealie meal distribution. The bags were found in various shops lacking proper supporting documents, suggesting a possible attempt at smuggling the essential commodity across the border.

Chililabombwe District Commissioner Precious Njekwa expressed her dismay at the situation and highlighted the negative impact of mealie meal smuggling on local food security. Njekwa urged citizens to resist the temptation of engaging in illegal activities, emphasizing that authorities remain vigilant in the border town.

Lamenting the lack of cooperation from some citizens, Njekwa stated, “It is sad to discover that there are some businessmen keeping bags of mealie-meal in some warehouses in PP-Zambia for purposes of selling it illegally, thereby negatively affecting mealie-meal prices.”

To address the issue, the seized mealie meal will be stored securely while security officers continue to collect from all remaining warehouses for further investigations. Njekwa urged the local business community in Chililabombwe to conduct their operations within the confines of the law, emphasizing the importance of adhering to legal practices for the well-being of everyone.

Only One Batch Of Erythromycin Was Non-Compliant – Masebo

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Only One Batch Of Erythromycin Was Non-Compliant – Masebo

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo has offered clarification regarding the recent testing of pharmaceuticals supplied to the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA). In a ministerial statement presented to Parliament, Minister Masebo disclosed that out of the 58 items supplied by Mission Pharma, only one batch of Erythromycin was found to be non-compliant after undergoing testing at the National Quality Control Laboratory.

Assuring the public, Minister Masebo emphasized that the remaining 57 items were determined to be compliant after thorough testing, alleviating concerns about the overall quality of the pharmaceuticals.

However, she revealed that Mission Pharma, the supplier of the drugs, has contested the test results provided by ZAMRA (Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority). The supplier has insisted on an independent re-test and rejected the initial findings. As a result, the Research Institute of Industrial Pharmacy from South Africa has been engaged to conduct the re-testing.

In response to a question from Nyimba Member of Parliament Menyani Zulu regarding the possibility of engaging local manufacturers for health kit supplies, Minister Masebo acknowledged the government’s efforts in establishing pharmaceutical industries within the country. While acknowledging the potential challenge in meeting the demand solely through local suppliers, she affirmed the government’s commitment to increasing the number of manufacturing plants in the country.

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