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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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.

Boosting Law Enforcement: President Hichilema Hands Over 156 Police Vehicles Nationwide

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In a significant stride towards enhancing law enforcement capabilities, President Hakainde Hichilema handed over 156 police motor vehicles to constituencies across the country this afternoon. The vehicles, procured through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), mark a crucial step in addressing the logistical challenges faced by the police force.

Addressing the police officers during the handover, President Hichilema called upon them to respond effectively to security threats and concerns within their respective constituencies. He emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order, underscoring that individuals found breaking the law, whether through theft of private or public assets, would be dealt with within the confines of the law.

“There can never be development in an area where there is no law and order,” President Hichilema asserted, highlighting the pivotal role law enforcement plays in fostering a conducive environment for development.

Expressing gratitude to the police officers who tirelessly work around the clock to combat crimes in communities, President Hichilema extended his blessings and confidence in their dedication. He stressed the government’s commitment to supporting the police force and ensuring they have the necessary resources to carry out their duties effectively.

The handover of police vehicles aligns with the government’s broader efforts to strengthen security infrastructure and enhance the capacity of the police force, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being and progress of the nation.

President Hichilema Urges Acceleration of Compact 2 Components in Meeting with MCC Vice President

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President Hakainde Hichilema has emphasized the need for expeditious finalization of the components of Compact 2 under the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC). During a meeting with MCC Vice President of Compact Operations, Cameron Alford, at State House today, President Hichilema highlighted the impor
tance of overcoming hurdles that may hinder the timely execution of the project.

Expressing Zambia’s readiness to collaborate with the Millennium Challenge Corporation, President Hichilema identified key issues such as infrastructure and access to markets as vital components of Compact 2. He underscored the Zambian Government’s commitment to working with the MCC to allocate resources efficiently to areas in need.

President Hichilema sought to explore the flexibility of the program to incorporate new areas of need that may have arisen since the initial design of Compact 2. He acknowledged the strong partnership between Zambia and the United States and expressed gratitude for the support received during Compact 1.

Meanwhile, the President voiced concern about the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the Ukraine-Russia war. He reiterated Zambia’s commitment to peace and called for de-escalation of conflicts. President Hichilema recognized the impact of the Ukraine-Russia war on food shortages in many countries and highlighted Zambia’s potential to increase food production for local consumption and export within the region.

In response, Cameron Alford acknowledged considerable progress in planning Compact 2. He outlined the focus areas, including roads, improvements in the operations of the Food Reserve Agency, electricity, and irrigation, among others. Alford assured that the Millennium Challenge Corporation is aligned with President Hichilema’s vision to increase maize production to 10 million metric tonnes, emphasizing their commitment to complementing Zambia’s agricultural goals.

In a subsequent statement, President Hichilema expressed satisfaction with the meeting, emphasizing Zambia’s commitment to engaging in productive activities that drive economic development. He highlighted the importance of agriculture and road infrastructure for economic growth, positioning agriculture as a business, a source of empowerment, and a crucial element for food security. President Hichilema reiterated Zambia’s dedication to upholding partnerships, including those under the Millennium Challenge Corporation, fostering development for the benefit of all citizens.

Zambia Opens World Cup Qualifying Account with a Thrilling 4-2 Win over Congo

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The thrilling encounter between Zambia and Congo delivered a spectacle of goals and excitement, with Zambia emerging victorious with a final score of 4-2.

The first half began with a bang as Patson Daka of Zambia headed the ball into the high center of the goal from the center of the box, assisted by Emmanuel Banda, giving Zambia an early 1-0 lead in the 5th minute. However, Congo responded swiftly, with Silvere Ganvoula leveling the score at 1-1 in the 13th minute. Ganvoula’s right-footed shot from the center of the box found the back of the net, courtesy of an assist from Yhoan Andzouana.

Congo didn’t stop there and continued to apply pressure on Zambia’s defense. Mons Bassouamina of Congo made it 2-1 in their favor in the 15th minute, with a right-footed shot from the center of the box, assisted by Gaïus Makouta. The first half continued for an extended period with a surprising 2-1 in favour of Congo.

The drama continued in the 43rd minute when Lameck Banda of Zambia scored a left-footed shot from the center of the box, equalizing the score at 2-2. Kings Kangwa provided the crucial assist.

The second half began with a flurry of substitutions, as both teams looked to make tactical adjustments. Bradley Mazikou replaced Morgan Poaty for Congo, and Clatous Chama came on for Benson Sakala for Zambia in the 56th minute. Subsequently, Julfin Ondongo and Domi Massoumou entered the field for Congo, replacing Bradley Mazikou and Prestige Mboungou in the 56th minute as well.

The second half continued with high-intensity play, and both teams were eager to secure the win. In the 69th minute, Zambia took the lead once again as Junior Fashion Sakala found the back of the net with an attempt from the center of the box, assisted by Lameck Banda, making it 3-2 in favor of Zambia.

In the late stages of the match, Zambia made strategic substitutions, with Edward Chilufya coming on for Lameck Banda in the 83rd minute. Congo also made changes, as Gabriel Charpentier replaced Mons Bassouamina, and Chandrel Massanga replaced Gaïus Makouta in the 81st minute.

The match’s defining moment came in the 90+2nd minute when Patson Daka of Zambia scored his second goal of the game. Daka’s left-footed shot from the center of the box found the back of the net, securing Zambia’s victory with a final score of 4-2.

Tickets Flying Off the Shelves as Zambia Gears Up for FIFA World Cup Qualifier Against Congo Brazzaville

Excitement is building as Zambia prepares to face Congo Brazzaville in the 2026 Group E FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium this evening. The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) General Secretary, Reuben Kamanga, has confirmed the arrival of the Congo Brazzaville contingent at the Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe International Airport, ensuring that the stage is set for a thrilling match.

In a statement released today, Kamanga urged fans to secure their seats by purchasing tickets, emphasizing that they are still available across Shoprite outlets. He expressed gratitude to the supporters who have already purchased tickets and encouraged those who haven’t to join in and be part of the excitement at the stadium.

“We wish to thank fans that have been trooping to various Shoprite outlets to purchase tickets ahead of this evening’s match. We wish to encourage fans that have not yet purchased their tickets to get theirs now and be part of the fun at the stadium,” Kamanga stated.

Amid the fervor surrounding the match, Kamanga appealed to fans to maintain good behavior at the stadium, discouraging the throwing of objects onto the pitch. He emphasized the potential consequences, including heavy fines and damage to the country’s reputation as a host for international matches.

“We have also doubled up on security to ensure that fans sit in their designated areas,” Kamanga assured.

Calling on fans to rally behind the team, Kamanga urged them to fill up the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium and support the players on their journey to victory. The stadium, he noted, has become a fortress in recent games, and the association expects nothing different this time.

“All logistics are in place for the match tonight,” Kamanga assured, instilling confidence in the football community as Zambia gears up for a crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier against Congo Brazzaville.

Is Edgar Lungu really back in active politics? Maybe not

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By Michael Chishala

Did you know that former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu is not in active politics? I know it sounds totally ridiculous and silly, but it is true. Sort of, provided that he actually truthfully resigned as PF President in August 2021.

Most Zambians seem to be unclear on what being in “active politics” means. The Benefits of Former Presidents Act (BOFPA) is very clear and unequivocal that holding office (or the express intention to do so) in a political party is what constitutes being in “active politics”. So let us ask this question:
Is Mr Lungu right now holding any position or office in PF that we are publicly aware of?

The answer is no. As things stand, he officially resigned in writing as PF president in 2021 and that is how he got his benefits. There is no way Cabinet Office would have given him his benefits if he was still the PF President according to the BOFPA. Why is all this important? Well, since Mr Lungu is not holding any position in PF as far as we know, nor has he stated an intention to contest for the PF Presidency, then he is NOT in active politics! That is what the BOFPA says in black and white. This of course raises some very interesting consequences.

Mr Lungu right now can write to Cabinet Office demanding for a restoration of his benefits as per BOFPA. Cabinet Office will have their hands tied because if they refuse, he can simply state the obvious; that he resigned as PF president in 2021 and the status quo remains. If they say “But you announced that you are in active politics”, he will simply refer them to the definition of “active politics” in the BOFPA.
Now, suppose Mr Lungu is adopted as PF candidate for 2026 while retaining the existing leadership structure in PF? He gets to do a “double tobela” by continuing to get his benefits whilst holding no position in PF and thus being able to run as Republican President at taxpayer expense. This was the “Bwezani Formula” established in 2015 by late president Rupiah Bwezani Banda. It may possibly require an amendment to the PF consitution, depending on what it says about who can be candidate for Republican president.
Every time he goes out to campaign, ECL can be getting 80% of what the current president gets paid every month, free fuel, workers, a nice fat rented house and other benefits while he is biting the hand that feeds him. He may possibly become president again to finish off his promise to arrest certain individuals and throw the keys away.

However, there is a chink in the armour of Mr Lungu. Did he actually really resign in 2021? This is where the waters get murky. The official records say so, but his public statements are facing the opposite direction. He recently boasted at a graveyard somewhere in Lusaka that “alebwelelapo” pali PF Presidency. He said it amidst loud cheers that he shall “continue” as PF president because his “mandate” runs until 2026.
There is debate in the public domain to suggest he made party appointments like party SG and Vice-President after he supposedly resigned as PF President in 2021. But wait a minute! How could he be making appointments if he resigned as PF President? How could he be getting a nice fat monthly pay and get a nice fat house built for him if he is still the Puppet Master in PF? Therein lies the rub.

Team Red seem not to realise that Mr Lungu still has aces up his sleeves. If he wants to get very antagonistic and spiteful, he can demand for his benefits and laugh in their faces whilst campaigning to remove them from power. If they try to squeeze him using the law on something, anything, they will play right into his hands as he will be made a martyr, increasing in popularity every day. Just ask Donald Trump. Never under-estimate the power of playing the victim.

As respected lawyer John Sangwa already noted, it is too late to go after Mr Lungu for any alleged crimes he did as president. That ship has sailed because of people sleeping at the wheel and playing with kid gloves by giving blanket immunity and publicly announcing that they have no intention of lifting his immunity. Well, let us see just how much Mr Kasaka ka Ndalama pokes the giant in the eye.

Michael Chishala is a Zambian analyst, blogger, and ICT Specialist. He has interests in Philosophy, Economics, Politics and Art. Email: michael [at] zambia [dot] co [dot] zm.

Mubanga Fit For Congo Clash

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Chipolopolo midfielder Kelvin Mubanga has been declared fit for tonights 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Congo Brazzaville at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.

Mubanga of Zesco United has just recovered from a hamstring injury sustained some weeks ago.

The Chipolopolo Medical Team said Mubanga has been training and he is available for selection

Meanwhile, Captain Lubambo Musonda and China based striker Evans Kangwa are out of the match against Congo.

Zambia is seeking a maiden World Cup qualification.