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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.

Police Assure Chinese Community Of Their Safety in Zambia

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Police Assure Chinese Community Of Their Safety in Zambia

Inspector General of Police Grapheal Musamba has assured the Chinese community in Zambia of their safety under the the police service.

And the Zambia Chinese Association has pledged continued support towards ensuring that Zambia remains a peaceful nation that allows investors to thrive.

The association has today donated assorted items worth K260,000 to the Zambia Police Service aimed at safeguarding the lives of men and women in uniform against cholera and reported cases of COVID-19 in the country.

Among the donated items include Chlorine, Soap, Wash bins, water purifiers, face masks and alcohol for medical purposes among others.

Speaking during the donation, Zambia China Association Executive President, Wu Ming said the Chinese Association in Zambia were concerned with the happenings in the country in terms of health, hence coming forward with the donation.

And Ming commended Zambia for creating an enabling environment for investors to thrive.
“We are members of the community in Zambia who are equally affected by what is happening in the country, and that is why we have decided to come on board with this donation as a supplement to what the government is doing in the prevention of Cholera and reported cases of COVID-19,” Ming said.

Ming said the Chinese community was concerned about their safety in the country, saying, the Chinese Association had a number of security concerns which they feel the Zambia Police can help in resolving.

“We remain hopeful that our relationship will continue to grow in 2024 and beyond and will create a platform in which we can engage Zambia as far as security is concerned,” Ming added.

Zambia Police and Zambia Chinese Association

Meanwhile, Zambia Police chief Grapheal Musamba says the Chinese community has nothing to worry about in terms of thier safety, adding that the police service will ensure that all foreign nations and investors in Zambia including the Chinese feel free to conduct their business.

Musamba also commended the Chinese Association for what he termed as a timely gesture.
“It is our hope and trust that we continue on this trajectory in order to create our relationships in increasing a peaceful and secure environment,” Musamba said, adding that Zambia remains open to further collaborations.

New Export Tracking Framework

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New Export Tracking Framework

I think this new concept has not been clearly explained, probably due to its fancy technical name.
This measure is similar to SI33 which was introduced in the early days of the Michael Sata regime, which received severe push back to the extent that it was subsequently withdrawn.

So what is Export Tracking Framework?

All exports will be tracked and ensure that proceeds are paid into Zambian bank accounts. The current banking system allows businesses and individuals to open CFC accounts, which are dollar denominated accounts. So the export proceeds, more likely than not, will be routed into the dollar accounts and held in Dollars.

Tipping Point?

The crucial issue here is whether these dollars will be converted to kwacha or not. Also, it is important to note that Zambia does not have Exchange Controls, so the dollars in the CFC accounts can be held in dollars for as long as the account holder deems it fit. In other jurisdictions, there is an auto conversion period of say 60 days and if you don’t use the dollars they are automatically converted to kwacha which results in positively impacting the money markets as these dollars are now available for use in the money markets. Effectively improving dollar supply.
Holding import dollar proceeds in dollar accounts without conversion into kwacha has no impact on the exchange rate.
If anything, given that we have a liberal exchange control regime, more likely than not, once the dollars have been received, exporters, particularly mining houses, will externalise these proceeds to their central treasury. This results in a zero-sum game and completely neutralizes this policy. It becomes impotent.
It is highly unlikely that the local Kwacha needs for exporters, particularly mines will change as a result of this new policy. As such, funds will come in and then go out.
Also important to note is that VAT refunds to mines in Kwacha provide ready Kwacha for local expenses such as salaries and therefore negates the need to convert dollars from CFC accounts to kwacha.

Currently, CFC accounts have a consolidated balance of over $3 billion which has no impact on the money market until such time that conversion to kwacha happens. In previous years, CFC dollar account balances were around $2 billion. My conclusion is that businesses prefer to convert excess kwacha to dollars to hedge against currency fluctuations, not that trade in dollars has increased and therefore putting more pressure on the exchange rate.

We are highlighting this to CAUTION against pre-mature excitement and celebration as we saw with Debt Restructuring MoU, which was signed with official creditors in June 2022.
If conversions to Kwacha from dollar accounts do not happen, the exchange rate challenges will remain as is the case today. The real solution to the exchange rate still remains in increasing local production and manufacturing capacity and value addition. Export more and reduce dependency on imports.

As patriots, we are just issuing a cautionary statement, the policy framework is welcome, and it is our hope that it brings positive economic benefits to the country, and we will closely monitor the results. The devil is always in the details.

Fred M’membe
President of the Socialist Party
Facebook post

New Regulations Unveiled in Light Of Cholera Outbreak

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New Regulations Unveiled in Light Of Cholera Outbreak

In a press statement issued yesterday, the Minister of Health, Hon. Sylvia T. Masebo, provided a comprehensive update on the current cholera situation in Zambia, emphasizing the government’s robust response to the outbreak that has affected numerous communities.

Over the past 24 hours, Zambia recorded 431 new cholera cases across six provinces. Lusaka Province remains the most affected, contributing 381 of the new cases. The total number of patients admitted across the country has risen to 859, with a slight increase from the previous day. Regrettably, 11 deaths were reported in the last 24 hours, with nine in Lusaka Province and two in Central Province.

At the Hero’s Stadium cholera treatment center in Lusaka, there are currently 576 patients, including 247 males, 136 females, and 193 children. Despite the challenges, the center made 130 discharges within the last 24 hours while losing three adult patients, including one with severe COVID pneumonia and cholera, who was transferred to Levy Treatment Center.

Minister Masebo also revealed that Zambia has collaborated with international partners WHO and UNICEF to secure cholera vaccines to augment ongoing control measures. Approximately 1.6 million doses are expected to arrive in the country in several batches, with an official handover scheduled for Monday, January 15, 2024. The community vaccination efforts will initially focus on hot spots in Lusaka Province, targeting individuals aged one year and above in selected communities.

Minister Masebo said the earlier SI number 79 of 2017 measures were introduced that allowed public health professionals to dispose of the body of a person who died from cholera in conformity with public health regulations. Other measures that are invoked with SI 79 include:

1. Prohibition of funeral gatherings of more than 5 people, if the person being buried from had died of cholera
2. A person who becomes aware or has reason to suspect that another person has died or is suffering from cholera shall immediately inform the nearest authorized officer in a local authority or public health facility
3. Authorized officers may enter any premises to search for a case of cholera or to enquire if there is a case of cholera
4. Authorized officers may prohibit or restrict trading in or vending of food in unsanitary conditions – leading to the closure of premises that do not comply with hygienic practices
5. Authorized officers may order the cleaning or closure of the public premises or burial of any contaminated water body such as the shallow wells that the officer determines that a public premise does not have sufficient sanitation and hygiene to prevent the occurrence or transmission of cholera.

To further address the cholera outbreak, the Public Health (Infected Areas) (Cholera) (Amendment) Regulations for 2024 have been introduced. Among the provisions, the amendment prohibits the entry of bedsides into cholera treatment centers and enhances measures for the safe burial of cholera suspects. Additionally, stringent measures for public health messaging at religious gatherings have been introduced, requiring documentation of the messaging provided.

Minister Masebo urged citizens to adhere to the outlined regulations, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in combating the outbreak. The government remains dedicated to mitigating the impact of cholera, safeguarding public health, and ensuring a healthier Zambia.

The press statement concluded with gratitude for the media’s attention and a call for everyone to play their part in contributing to a healthier nation.

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