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Like Hichilema, Zuckerberg is into ranching; what’s your take?

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Like Hichilema, Zuckerberg is into ranching; what’s your take?

Do you still want to insist mututu (unsophisticated) or kamushi (villager) simply because of his passion for keeping cows? Of course, you know whom we’re talking about; how dare you want to pretend!

He grew up in the village in Monze going to school in threadbare clothes devoid of shoes! And instead of playing around during his spare time like any ordinary kid, he would be keeping a watchful eye on the cattle to ensure they didn’t go astray or invade other people’s maize fields. Once he made to the cradle of knowledge in the land – the University of Zambia (UNZA), he would use his savings to acquire cattle while his peers invested their allowances in places such as Moon City or Valentino’s night clubs and “urinate it in the toilet,” if we may quote him correctly.

This devout believer who would later excel to the position of elder in the Adventist church eventually “graduated” into a second largest supplier of beef to the local market and one of the biggest exporters of beef products in the nation!

Today, this man is sitting in State House as President. However, the excruciating weight as of head of state has not curtailed his love for animals – cattle, to be specific! During his free time, he makes forays to his ranches doted around the remote areas to help out with work. You would see him jump into a kraal in his gumboots and grab the bulls by their horns to have them dipped as his protocol and security detail watch in awe. That’s Kachema for you!

How often has this man encouraged us to venture into farming…..or better still ranching? What has this economist cum farmer seen in it that most of us are blind to see? It’s obviously cool cash!

Instead of taking it in stride by encouraging our citizens to get involved in productive activities, political leaders have gone to town bashing and deriding him.

“We can’t all be cattle herders! Why’s he asking people to go back to the village? What sort of reasoning is that?” You would hear them ‘parrot’ in their obvious disdain. Secretly, some of these individuals are busy developing their own ranches.

Even before he became President, folks would pour scorn on him…..”If HH becomes president, he’d take cows with him to graze the grounds of State House!” Have you seen any cows at Plot 1 apart from monkeys that once peed on the head of a former president? Embiciles; aren’t you! Well…..well, well! Mark Zuckerberg, the creator of this same platform you’re enjoying has just made startling revelations! Taking to his Facebook page, he shares:

“Started raising cattle at Ko’olau Ranch on Kauai, and my goal is to create some of the highest quality beef in the world. The cattle are wagyu and angus, and they’ll grow up eating macadamia meal and drinking beer that we grow and produce here on the ranch. We want the whole process to be local and vertically integrated. Each cow eats 5,000-10,000 pounds of food each year, so that’s a lot of acres of macadamia trees. My daughters help plant the mac trees and take care of our different animals. We’re still early in the journey and it’s fun improving on it every season. Of all my projects, this is the most delicious.”

For the uninitiated ones, Kauai is one of Hawaii’s islands which is at times referred to as the “Garden Island.” It’s not our intention to delve into painting a picture of how exotic the island is at this juncture; that’s a topic for another day. We are here to talk ranching!

Ba Edith Nawakwi, Fred M’membe, Harry Kalaba, Sean Tembo, Chishala Kateka……forget about Chishimba Kambwili for now; does your opinion on President Hichilema regarding his choice of hobby remain the same after reading this? We’ll share with you what we think.

We expect our leaders of any kind to at least play a leading role in inspiring citizens to get involved in productive activities such as the one alluded to as opposed to frequenting Casinos and imbibing outrageous amounts of Jameson or indeed promoting promiscuity in the nation by operating brothels camouflaged as lodges! Mulekutika?

Prince Bill M. Kaping’a
Political/Social Analyst

Cholera in Zambia: Short- and Long-Term Solutions

Chief Editor
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Cholera in Zambia: Short- and Long-Term Solutions

By Mwizenge S. Tembo, Ph. D.

By Mwizenge S. Tembo, Ph. D.

Emeritus Professor of Sociology

I was shocked when I read the news a few days ago. There was another new cholera epidemic in Zambia; 351 people were dead and 9,000 cases of infections were registered. Images and video clips of rows of patients in beds in the Heroes Stadium in Lusaka transformed into a large makeshift emergency ward were heart breaking. Why is this cholera outbreak happening again? According to the World Health Organization, the last cases of the cholera epidemic in Zambia were in 2017. At this moment in Zambia, cholera affects 9 provinces and 39 districts. But why is cholera such a problem during the rainy season in Zambia? Is cholera endemic, epidemic, or a pandemic in Zambia? Can we as Zambians end cholera to never strike again forever?

This article may not answer all of these and other questions in great detail. The article will define the cholera disease and its causes, symptoms, treatment of the disease and its history in Zambia, and why it keeps striking in Zambia.  Lastly, the article will discuss the short- and long-term solutions. I will discuss why I agree with President Hakainde Hichilema that part of the solution would be for residents of densely populated areas in towns and cities to migrate to rural areas and villages.

What is Cholera and its causes?

The bacteria vibrio cholerae causes cholera illness. The bacteria get transmitted into the body through the oral-fecal route or through the mouth and feces. The cholera illness is caused by contaminated food, water and other drinks. The cholera bacteria can be found on contaminated raw or uncooked food including meat and fish. The bacteria are spread through unhygienic or unsanitary conditions. Our stomachs acid often kills many bacteria before they can harm us or cause illness. One of the risks of cholera illness is if our stomach for some reason has reduced levels of stomach acid, then we can become victim of the cholera bacteria once we have eaten food or drink water that is contaminated.

Symptoms and Treatment

If you or someone is showing signs of cholera illness, urgently seek medical treatment immediately as the illness can kill in a matter of hours if not treated. The major symptoms of cholera include: Very watery diarrhea in which the stool appears pale and milky, feeling fatigue, weakness, tiredness or kufoka. Feeling very nauseous and vomiting, dehydration or thirst, dry mouth and loose skin because of loss of fluids in the body.  Electrolyte imbalance and low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and weight loss or kuyonda or becoming thin. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) website, “People with low immunity – such as malnourished children or people living with HIV – are at a greater risk of death if infected”. I would like to add that even adults who are malnourished can be victims of cholera.

The cholera illness is fortunately very easily treatable. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the majority of people who have the illness can be treated successfully through the application of Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS). “The WHO/UNICEF ORS standard sachet is dissolved in 1 litre (L) of clean water. Adult patients may require up to 6 Litres of ORS to treat moderate dehydration on the first day”.

According to the WHO, if the patient is severely dehydrated, they are at risk of shock and require the quick or rapid application or administration of Intravenous Fluids administered through the drip. Almost all the photos I saw of the many cholera patients at Heroes Stadium emergency had drips attached to them which means they were severely dehydrated. A 70 kg adult will require at least 7 Litres of Intravenous fluid, plus Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) during their treatment. “These patients may also be given appropriate antibiotics to shorten the duration of diarrhea, reduce the volume of rehydration fluids needed, and shorten the amount and duration of V. cholerae excretion in their stool”.

The WHO website concludes its discussion of treatment stating: “Rapid access to treatment is essential during a cholera outbreak. Oral rehydration should be available in communities, in addition to larger centres that can provide intravenous fluids and 24-hour care. With early and proper treatment, the case fatality rate should remain below 1%.”

History of Cholera in Zambia

Is cholera epidemic, endemic, or a pandemic in Zambia and the rest of the global world? A disease is an epidemic when at a particular time it is widespread all over the community, country, society or the world. Common examples are the flu or the recent Covid 19 epidemic. An endemic is when a disease frequently and regularly occurs within an area, village, community, country, or society. Cholera is fortunately not endemic in Zambia as it first occurred only in 1977 and again in 2017according to the WHO. If it was endemic the disease would occur in Zambia every day all year round. Malaria, on the other hand, may be endemic in Zambia. A disease becomes a pandemic when it occurs all over the country or the world at any particular time.

The World Health Organization (WHO) says: “During the 19th century, cholera spread across the world from its original reservoir in the Ganges delta in India. Six subsequent pandemics killed millions of people across all continents. The current (seventh) pandemic started in South Asia in 1961, and reached Africa in 1971 and the Americas in 1991. Cholera is now endemic in many countries.” According to WHO Researchers, 1.3 to 4.0 million cases, and 21,000 to 143, 000 deaths are estimated to occur worldwide due to cholera1.

Why Cholera Strikes in Zambia

The WHO Africa report says that over the last two years in 2022 and 2023, 16 African countries have reported cholera outbreaks. These now include six countries including Zambia, Burundi, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe recently reported a total of 1,334 new cases.

In virtually all the descriptions of the causes of the cholera epidemic in Zambia,  African and other countries, one set of causes are mentioned and emphasized over and over again: “…dire water and sanitation conditions,” “…. contaminated water and food,” “…inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities.”

I am not saying this with hate of my fellow Zambians who might live in those neighborhoods. Because as a citizen, I have friends, relatives and a long history of having some of my best times in those neighborhoods since the late 1960s. Cholera happens during the peak of the heavy rainy season in densely populated areas of the Capital City of Lusaka. According to the Relief Web website, 94% of Cholera cases and 97% of the 351 reported deaths in Zambia have occurred in Lusaka Province. What has made cholera worse and more likely to happen this year is the severe or heavy flooding during the rainy season due to climate change. During the last 2 years cyclones have hit neighboring Mozambique that have resulted in  many deaths. The cyclones have spread into parts of Eastern and Southern Zambia causing deadly floods displacing millions.

When these floods hit major large cities such as Lusaka with many densely populated compounds, chances of cholera outbreaks increase and these highly densely populated areas are located in low lying swampy areas and lack proper sanitation and water drainage. I remember in February 2021 driving through Kanyama compound after heavy torrential rains, the flooding was so serious that cars and vehicles could not drive through as flood water surrounded homes and was above the bonnets of the cars. We had to reverse and drive out without completing our business.

Short Term Cholera Solutions

Short term cholera epidemic solutions are the easiest to implement. We may have some of the best medical facilities compared to other not just African but other countries in the world. This is both in the rural and urban areas. We have many well trained Zambian medical doctors, nurses, technicians, equipment, drugs and other medicines. I can say this because I have seen and personally experienced the change from 60 years ago or since 1964 when Zambia got its independence from British colonialism. I don’t want Zambians hitting me on the head to say I don’t know what I am talking about because medicines are not available in public hospitals and clinics. I am aware of this but I am referring to acknowledging the positive change and advances that have happened over the last 60 years. There is always room for improvement.

This change of having highly qualified effective Zambian doctors, medical personnel and experts means that the cholera outbreak epidemic emergency can be effectively attended to. The government in conjunction with WHO and other national and international medical non-government organizations can treat the cholera outbreak and stop it from spreading. Other immediate effective policies that are in place as of right now are that  public gatherings are banned including attending public burials of the cholera victims. The banning of public burials sounds very cruel for grieving relatives of the deceased person but this is to stop the spread of the cholera bacteria. Street vending of foods has been banned.

Cholera patients should be quickly identified, isolated, admitted to hospital or clinic wards. They should quickly be treated with Oral Rehydration Salts, Intravenous Fluids, and antibiotics as needed. The public should remain vigilant until the end of the rainy season.

Long Term Cholera Solutions

The long-term solutions are the most challenging. That’s why it was heartwarming for me when I read the news headline: “Zambia cholera: President Hakainde Hichilema urges people to move to villages”.  I am in complete support of a policy that would encourage residents of highly densely populated areas in towns and cities such as in Lusaka near the Heroes Stadium to relocate or migrate to rural areas where there is more open space.

I remember in the 1970s when there was high unemployment and crime among the youth in towns and cities in Zambia. President Kaunda and the United National Independence Party (UNIP) were urging youths to return to rural areas through what was called the “Rural Reconstruction Programme”.  The youths did not migrate because at that time rural areas were not very livable. There was no electricity, the small rural shops didn’t stock essential commodities such as cooking oil, sugar, mosi beer, soft drinks, there were no telephones, fewer clinics and schools. Jobs were very few. Today rural areas are very livable. There is solar power, borehole pumps for clean drinking water, farming has some income, some jobs and business are available, cell phones are everywhere, schools and clinics are everywhere. Improvement of transportation and the paving or tarring of major roads is on-going.

The other aspect of long-term cholera solutions is that sanitation and providing of clean water has to be a high priority in densely populated compounds of towns and cities. This requires the government and town and city municipalities to invest capital in sanitation technology and equipment. Compounds and townships should have piles of rubbish removed and good toilets installed and inspected at least before every rainy season if not all the time. All of this requires money and good public planning on the part of both government and leaders in township and city municipalities. This is why the United Party for National Development (UPND) were right to appeal to all Zambians from all political parties to unite in the fight against the cholera outbreak. “Zambia’s UPND Calls for Unity to Combat Cholera Outbreak.”

Sources

  1. https://www.afro.who.int/health-topics/cholera#:~:text=Cholera%20transmission%20is%20closely%20linked,clean%20water%20and%20sanitation%20facilities.
  2. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-67931876
  3. https://bnnbreaking.com/zambias-upnd-calls-for-unity-to-combat-cholera-outbreak
  4. https://news.sky.com/story/zambia-cholera-outbreak-families-face-desperate-wait-to-find-out-if-loved-ones-are-dead-or-alive-13047959
  5. https://reliefweb.int/report/zambia/zambia-cholera-outbreak-update-dg-echo-un-ocha-zambia-national-public-health-institute-echo-daily-flash-12-january-2024
  6. https://www.afro.who.int/health-topics/cholera#:~:text=Cholera%20transmission%20is%20closely%20linked,clean%20water%20and%20sanitation%20facilities.
  7. https://www.unicef.org/press-releases/cholera-cases-continue-rise-parts-southern-africa-unicef-calls-increased-focus#:~:text=Since%20the%20first%20reported%20case,are%20now%20reporting%20cholera%20cases.
  8. causes of cholera – Search (bing.com)

Zambia and DR Congo Share Honors in AFCON Opener

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Zambia and DR Congo Share Honors in AFCON Opener

In the opening round of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Zambia and DR Congo played to an entertaining 1-1 draw in Group F. Zambia took an early lead when Kings Kangwa capitalized on a defensive mix-up, scoring in the 23rd minute. However, DR Congo quickly responded, with Brentford forward Yoane Wissa netting an equalizer just four minutes later.

The Leopards thought they had a chance to take the lead in the second half when a penalty was awarded for handball. Still, the decision was correctly overturned after a video review showed the ball had hit the thigh of the defending player, Tandi Mwape.

Despite both teams pressing for a winner, the match ended in a draw, setting the stage for the next group fixtures. Zambia will face Tanzania on Sunday, while DR Congo takes on Morocco.

Morocco Proves Credentials with Convincing Win

In another Group F clash, Morocco, considered pre-tournament favorites, displayed their prowess with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Tanzania. The match saw Morocco dominating from the start, securing a solid win and underlining their potential to go far in the tournament.

As Group F action continues, all eyes are now on the upcoming fixtures, with Morocco facing DR Congo and Zambia meeting Tanzania in the next round of games. Meanwhile, the highly anticipated encounter between Ivory Coast and Nigeria awaits in Group A, while Egypt and Ghana seek their first win in Group B.

Journalist Seeks To Restore Case Were JJ Banda Urinated In His Mouth

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Journalist Seeks To Restore Case Were JJ Banda Urinated In His Mouth

Former Post Newspaper journalist, Peter Sukwa, has reached out to the Human Rights Commission, urging them to intervene and revive the case involving an alleged assault by Petauke Member of Parliament, Emmanuel Banda, who is accused of assaulting Sukwa and urinating in his mouth.

In a letter addressed to the Human Rights Commission, Sukwa highlighted the incident and the impact it has had on his life, noting that he has faced continuous mockery since the assault. Copies of the letter were also sent to Amnesty International, the Chief Justice, and the Zambia Institute of Independent Media Alliance (ZIIMA).

Sukwa spoke to ZNBC News, expressing his ongoing distress and the need for justice in the matter. The journalist has been seeking avenues to address the alleged assault, seeking support from both national and international human rights organizations.

Meanwhile, ZIIMA, represented by its President Jaja Coulibaly, commended Sukwa for taking a stand and pursuing justice. Coulibaly emphasized that any unsatisfactory verdict should be subject to challenge, and ZIIMA pledged its support to Sukwa’s quest for justice.

Emmanuel Banda had previously been fined 12,000 Kwacha for the alleged assault, with 10,000 Kwacha allocated as compensation to Sukwa. The reopening of the case could potentially bring new developments to light and ensure a thorough examination of the incident.

Official Tips Zambia to Excel in DR Congo Date

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Official Tips Zambia to Excel in DR Congo Date

Ndola football administrator Richard Kalasa is confident Zambia will excel at the ongoing Africa Cup in Ivory Coast.

Chipolopolo will start the Africa Cup campaign this Wednesday with a Group F match against DR Congo in San Pedro.

Kalasa, the former Forest Rangers Chairman, said Chipolopolo have a team that can compete favourably at the AFCON.

He said coach Avram Grant has inculcated a winning mentality in the squad.

Speaking to Radio Icengelo Sports in Ndola, Kalasa appealed to soccer fans to support Chipolopolo as they compete at the AFCON.

“At the moment we seem to have a team. Our boys like Patson Daka, Fashion Sakala and Lameck Banda will boost the team and we are hoping the team will do its best at the Africa Cup,” Kalasa said.

“If you look at the recent games we played, there is much improvement. I want to thank FAZ for hiring coach Avram Grant, he has brought something positive to the National Team. The team is well coordinated and playing well,” he continued.

Kalasa concluded:”As Zambians we must be up and support the National Team.”

Zambia will also face Tanzania and Morocco in Group F.

Former Information Minister Ronnie Shikapwasha to Receive Official Funeral

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Former Information Minister Ronnie Shikapwasha to Receive Official Funeral

President Hakainde Hichilema has declared an official funeral for the late Ronnie Shikapwasha, former Information Minister, who passed away on Monday, January 15, 2024. The announcement was made by Patrick Kangwa, Secretary to the Cabinet.

Lieutenant-General Shikapwasha will be laid to rest this Saturday, January 20. The funeral service will be held at the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross, followed by burial at Leopards Hill Memorial Park in Lusaka.

In addition to the official funeral, President Hichilema has declared January 20, 2024, as a day of national mourning to honor General Shikapwasha.

General Shikapwasha, aged 76, passed away following a shooting incident at his residence in Ibex Hill area. The Zambia Police Service is actively investigating the incident, which occurred on Sunday, January 14, 2024, between 17:00 and 18:00 hours. He was swiftly transported to Maina Soko Military Hospital where he later died.

Shikapwasha, who served in various Cabinet portfolios and as Keembe Member of Parliament during the MMD government, leaves behind a legacy of public service.

Police Public Relations Officer, Rae Hamoonga, urged the public to cooperate fully during the investigation, assuring that detectives are diligently working to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze information. The police also encouraged anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.

As the investigation progresses, the police commit to providing updates while maintaining open communication with the public, emphasizing the importance of allowing the process to unfold without premature conclusions or speculation.

The nation mourns the loss of a distinguished public figure, and all eyes are on the thorough investigation to shed light on the circumstances surrounding General Shikapwasha’s passing.

WHO-Supported Vaccines Bolster Zambia’s Ongoing Cholera Response

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WHO-Supported Vaccines Bolster Zambia’s Ongoing Cholera Response

In a significant stride towards controlling the ongoing cholera outbreak, Zambia has commenced the administration of 1.4 million World Health Organization (WHO)-supported vaccines. President Hakainde Hichilema acknowledged the crucial support, emphasizing that the vaccines provide a substantial boost to the nation’s robust cholera response.

The outbreak, while being addressed actively, remains a concern, prompting a call from President Hichilema for citizens to persist in taking precautions and adhering to health guidelines. Expressing gratitude to all partners collaborating in the fight against cholera, the President underscored the collective effort required to curb the spread and eliminate the disease.

The Ministry of Health has initiated the phased deployment of oral cholera vaccines (OCV), with a focus on high-risk transmission areas in Lusaka Province, including Matero, Kanyama, Chipata, and Chawama in the initial phase. This strategic approach aims to target regions with the highest susceptibility to transmission.

Ministers of Health, Local Government and Rural Development, Water Development and Sanitation, and Community Development converged in George Compound to administer the first dose of the 1.7 million cholera vaccines. The distribution marks a critical step in the nation’s comprehensive strategy to combat the cholera epidemic.

Notably, the National Heroes Stadium, designated as the National Cholera Treatment Centre, reported no deaths among cholera patients in the past 24 hours. Health Minister Sylvia Masebo expressed relief and commended the dedicated efforts of health workers in saving lives.

Masebo, during the launch of the oral cholera vaccine at the United Church of Zambia George Congregation, urged communities to ensure timely hospital visits for patients. She revealed that a significant number of brought-in-dead cases involve children below five years old.

Acting United Nations Resident Coordinator Penelope Campbell pledged the UN system’s collaboration with the government on a multi-year plan for cholera vaccines, ensuring readiness for potential outbreaks. Water Development and Sanitation Minister Mike Mposha outlined plans to empty 20,000 pit latrines to curb cholera’s spread.

Community Development and Social Services Minister Doreen Mwamba stressed the importance of cleanliness in communities, while Local Government and Rural Development Minister Gary Nkombo assured that the ministry had received adequate logistics to clear garbage in cholera hotspots in Lusaka.

Current Cholera situation has dented President Hichilema’s image – Kashinga

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Current Cholera situation has dented President Hichilema’s image – Kashinga

Socialist Party (SP) Copperbelt Spokesperson Reagan Kashinga says the current cholera outbreak has dented President Hakainde Hichilema’s image as Global Cholera Control Champion conferred on him by the Global Task Force on Cholera Control in May 2022.

President Hichilema officially accepted the prestigious international appointment at the World Health Assembly, in Geneva, Switzerland at the time Zambia had not recorded a single cholera death in several months.

But the current cholera situation has seen Zambia record over 150 deaths since October 2023 with at least 850 people admitted in various centres countrywide.

In a written media statement, Mr. Kashinga said Cholera is spreading fast mainly because the Government has failed to provide safe and clean water to many Zambians.

“We all know the sacredness of human life. Now losing over 150 people in a short period of time is sad and regrettable plus 859 more are admitted countrywide. It is very sad that as a country nearly 60 years after independence we are still grappling with cholera year in year out. We have observed with concern that Cholera is spreading fast mainly due to lack of clean and safe drinking water among our people and the filth environment many Zambians live in,” Mr. Kashinga stated.

“We were also shocked to hear President Hakainde Hichilema declare that people should not drink water from shallow wells. The best thing President Hichilema and the UPND Government could do is provide piped, clean and safe drinking water to our people in various localities. No Zambian desires to drink or use water from shallow wells and streams. Our people are forced to use shallow wells plus streams because they have no access to piped, clean and safe drinking water,” he continued.

Mr. Kashinga charged that the fight against cholera is being negatively affected by poor nutrition among Zambians due to household hunger.

“The provision of clean and safe water is the surest way of preventing cholera. President Hichilema’s tag as global cholera ambassador has been dented by this cholera outbreak in his own country. We fear that the fight against corruption will be tough because of poor nutrition levels in many households compounded by hunger. Hunger in many households’ means people are not managing to meet nutrition needs. Imagine the impact of malnutrition and cholera. The Socialist Party is hereby reminding the UPND Government to fulfill its promise of taking clean and safe water closer to our people in various localities like Kansuswa in Mufulira, Ipusukilo in Kitwe, Chipulukusu in Ndola, Kapisha in Chingola, PPZ in Chililabombwe just to mention a few,” he said.

Mr. Kashinga further reminded the people of Zambia to play a part in fighting cholera.” Please wash your hands regularly, boil your drinking water, make your surroundings clean and use a toilet when answering the call of nature. The Socialist Party mourns with the people who have lost their loved ones due to Cholera.”

Magwero Cut Off as Dilika Bridge Culvert Partially Washed Away

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Magwero Cut Off as Dilika Bridge Culvert Partially Washed Away

Magwero, a community in Chipata District, is facing isolation as heavy rainfall has led to the partial washing away of a section of the culvert at Dilika bridge. The incident has left houses, three schools, and churches inaccessible, prompting urgent intervention from local authorities.

Chipata City Mayor, George Mwanza, who promptly visited the affected area, expressed his concern over the unfortunate situation. Mwanza assured the residents that the Road Development Agency (RDA) would mobilize immediately to address the issue and restore connectivity.

The partial destruction of the Dilika bridge culvert has raised significant challenges for the people of Magwero, limiting their access to essential services and infrastructure. Mayor Mwanza’s visit underscores the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the need for swift action to mitigate the impact on the community.

Florence Jere, the Dilika Ward Councillor, called on the residents of Magwero to exercise patience as authorities work towards a resolution. The local government and RDA are coordinating efforts to assess the damage and implement necessary repairs to reopen the route.

Trevor Noah Makes History: Wins Emmy for Outstanding Talk Series

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Trevor Noah Makes History: Wins Emmy for Outstanding Talk Series

South African comedian Trevor Noah has achieved a historic milestone by winning an Emmy award in the outstanding talk series category for his renowned show, The Daily Show. Noah’s triumph marks a significant moment as he becomes the first African and first black person to secure an Emmy in the outstanding talk series category since its inception in 2015.

Expressing his joy and gratitude, Noah remarked, “It’s amazing that I get to be a part of this journey. It feels like being part of a winning football team,” following his victory on Monday night.

This victory comes after Noah’s sixth nomination in the category; his previous five nominations did not yield a win. The groundbreaking achievement coincided with his final season as the host of The Daily Show, a role he held for seven years. In September 2022, Noah surprised his fans by announcing his departure from the show, leaving an ongoing search for his replacement.

Noah, who received another Emmy in 2017 for an Outstanding Short Form Variety Series, continues to leave an indelible mark in the entertainment industry. The Emmy awards are widely regarded as the most prestigious honors in the US television industry, and Noah’s win further solidifies his influence and impact on the global stage.

As fans and industry insiders celebrate this historic moment, Trevor Noah’s legacy as a trailblazing comedian and television host continues to evolve, setting new benchmarks for diversity and representation in the world of entertainment.

Chipolopolo Duo Dedicates AFCON Performance to Retired Captain Enock Mwepu

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Chipolopolo Duo Dedicates AFCON Performance to Retired Captain Enock Mwepu

Zambia’s national football team, Chipolopolo, is gearing up for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with a strong determination to deliver impressive results in honor of their former captain, Enock Mwepu. The dynamic duo of Patson Daka and Fashion Sakala emphasized the team’s commitment to making a significant impact at AFCON as a tribute to Mwepu, who played a crucial role in the team’s journey.

Both Daka and Sakala acknowledged the absence of Mwepu as a considerable loss, recognizing him as a pillar and a driving force behind the team’s achievements. Mwepu recently retired from active football due to a heart condition, leaving a void in the squad.

Patson Daka, who had the opportunity to play alongside Mwepu at Red Bull Salzburg in Austria, highlighted that participating in the Africa Cup of Nations was Mwepu’s ultimate dream. The duo shared a camaraderie on and off the field, making the upcoming tournament a poignant moment to pay tribute to their former teammate.

Fashion Sakala echoed the sentiment, expressing that the team carries Mwepu’s hopes in spirit. He emphasized that having Mwepu join the squad in Ivory Coast to witness them fulfill their fixtures would hold great significance for the entire team.

The dedication to Mwepu reflects the deep respect and admiration the Chipolopolo players have for their former captain, recognizing his contributions to the team’s success. As they embark on the AFCON journey, the players are motivated to deliver resounding performances to honor Mwepu’s legacy and make his dream of a successful Africa Cup of Nations campaign a reality.

Fans and football enthusiasts eagerly await Zambia’s performance in AFCON, not only for the love of the sport but also to witness the heartfelt dedication to a player who has left an indelible mark on Zambian football.

Chitambala Mwewa out on bail

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Chitambala Mwewa out on bail

Much to the delight of his fans Chitambala Mwewa popularly known as Simon Mwewa Lane was released from Mwembeshi prison on bail yesterday.

“Mr Chitambala Mwewa as a vlogger has positively impacted the Zambian communities and therefore us citizens who have been inspired by him,we demand that he should be released on bail or simply asked to pay the fine plus the losses incurred by the owner of the bus Kwamana ! Surely Who treats the first offender like that? ” said a fan named Aaron Shimakanga

Chitambala Mwewa was sentenced to six months of simple imprisonment following his conviction on charges of malicious damage to property.

The charges against Chitambala stemmed from an incident on June 01, 2023, in Lusaka, where he willfully and unlawfully damaged two motor vehicle tires belonging to Benjamin Talamuka. The tires were part of a minibus parked at Simosons’ Building, property of the accused’s family, opposite City Market.

In delivering the ruling, Magistrate Mayambu emphasized that such behavior cannot be accepted by any society, stressing the need to send a warning to deter potential offenders from committing similar offenses. Despite Mr. Chitambala’s plea for leniency, citing being a first offender and a family man, the court considered the seriousness of the offense committed.

“Mr. Chitambala, the offense which you have committed carries a maximum of two years imprisonment, but taking note of your mitigation, I will give you a sentence of six months imprisonment effective today. You have the right to appeal to the high court if you are not happy with the judgment,” Magistrate Mayambu ruled.

FAZ assures of no injury concern for Chipolopolo ahead of AFCON

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FAZ assures of no injury concern for Chipolopolo ahead of AFCON

Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) Communications Manager, Sydney Mungala, says the Chipolopolo boys have no injury concerns ahead of their opening Group F encounter against the Democratic Republic of Congo at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.

Mungala has assured that the players in the squad are medically fit and are preparing well for the match.

Speaking in an interview with ZANIS Sports, Mungala said the team has already undergone the pre-match formalities that include medicals.

“For now everything is okay and the team is medically fit and so we are hoping we can have a good opening match on Wednesday against Congo DR,” he said.
Mungala said the technical team is expecting the squad to be ready for the match on Wednesday.

“The technical bench is expecting that going into the first game with Congo they will be ready, the team is housed at the Site CAN which is the tournament village where the other two teams namely Congo DR and also Tanzania are, Morocco is at a different facility at their own cost,” he said.

Mungala said the team is determined to make an impact at their first tournament after missing out on the least three editions.

He said the squad has had a feel of the training facility at the Lycee Moderne Lucien Yebarth in San Pedro, which is in perfect condition.

“The training facility is in perfect condition and the players were actually enjoying their training during that session,” Mungala said.

The FAZ Communications Manager urged fans to support the team.
Mungala pointed out that the team has been to various continental tournaments at different levels aside from the senior AFCON showpiece.

“They have won the AFCON at Under 20 level in 2017. They’ve played at the AFCON at Under 23 level in 2019, so one of the missing pieces was the AFCON main and we believe that all the efforts that we have done to just help prepare the team, point to giving the team the best possible preparatory mode,” he said.

The Avram Grant coached side will face DR Congo on Wednesday at the Laurent Pokou Stadium at 22 hours Zambian time in their opening Group F fixture with the second game against Tanzania four days later.

Zambia’s final group match will be against Morocco on January 24.

Heavy Rains Leave Over 100 Families Displaced in Lusaka’s Garden House Area

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Heavy Rains Leave Over 100 Families Displaced in Lusaka’s Garden House Area

The recent heavy downpour in Lusaka has wreaked havoc in the Garden House area, leaving over 100 families displaced as their houses succumbed to the rising floodwaters. Pit latrines have been inundated, and access roads transformed into waterways, hindering emergency vehicles from reaching the affected community.

Residents are grappling with the dire situation, with reports of pit latrine sewer mixing with stormwater and shallow wells becoming contaminated. Emergency services are struggling to navigate the flooded streets, compounding the challenges faced by residents in need of assistance.

One resident, Fromel Munyompe, voiced her concerns, emphasizing the urgency of finding a solution to the flood situation in the Garden House area. She pleaded with authorities to intervene promptly to prevent further deterioration of living conditions.

Moses Malizala, another resident, highlighted the extent of the crisis, stating that some individuals have been unable to leave their homes due to the severe flooding. He stressed the necessity of constructing drainage systems to mitigate the impact of floods in the area.

Kanyama Member of Parliament, Monty Chinkuli, has pledged to address the issue, noting that his office will engage with the Disaster Management and Mitigation Unit (DMMU) to find immediate solutions for the flood victims in the Garden House area. Recognizing the urgency of the matter, Mr. Chinkuli underscored the need for collaborative efforts to provide assistance and relief to those affected.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of the heavy rains, residents anxiously await the implementation of measures to alleviate their plight. Authorities are urged to act swiftly to not only provide immediate relief but also to explore long-term solutions to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Former MMD Information Minister Ronnie Shikapwasha Passes Away

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Former MMD Information Minister Ronnie Shikapwasha Passes Away

The nation is in mourning following the sad demise of Lieutenant General Ronnie Shikapwasha, the former Information and Broadcasting Services Minister in the Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD) government. The news of his passing was confirmed by both former First Lady Maureen Mwanawasa and family spokesperson Alex Mapushi in separate interviews with ZNBC News yesterday.

Mrs. Mwanawasa, who is a first cousin to the late former Zambia Air Force Commander, expressed her grief, confirming that Lieutenant General Shikapwasha passed away at the Maina Soko Military Hospital Monday evening. She described him as a good man, emphasizing the profound loss the family is experiencing.

In a parallel interview, Mr. Mapushi, who also serves as the Lusaka Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, disclosed that the former Keembe Member of Parliament succumbed to acute abdominal secondary gunshot wounds at around 21:43hrs. He portrayed Lieutenant General Shikapwasha as a family pillar, uniting everyone and extending a helping hand to those in need.

“He was a person who united everyone and helped all those in need. The family will miss him a lot,” said Mr. Mapushi, reflecting on the significant role Lieutenant General Shikapwasha played within his family.

The late General Shikapwasha’s life took a tragic turn on Sunday when he was involved in a shooting incident at his residence in the Ibex Hill area of Lusaka. The incident prompted police investigations, leading to his admission to the Intensive Care Unit at the Maina Soko Military Hospital.

As the nation comes to terms with the loss of a seasoned politician and military figure, tributes pour in for Lieutenant General Ronnie Shikapwasha, remembering him for his contributions to the nation and his impact on the lives of those he touched.

Details regarding funeral arrangements and condolences from various political figures are expected to follow in the coming days as the nation mourns the passing of a distinguished public servant.

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