Lusaka Times-Zambia's Leading Online News Site - LusakaTimes.com | Keeping you Informed

The Food Reserve Agency has announced that it has paid 99 percent of farmers who supplied maize to the agency, assuring stakeholders that the remaining outstanding payments are being addressed and will be concluded once verification processes are completed.

FRA officials said the payment exercise had largely been successful, with most farmers receiving their money through mobile money platforms. The agency explained that delays affecting a small number of farmers were linked to data verification issues rather than a lack of funds.

According to the agency, the verification process is necessary to ensure that payments are made to the correct beneficiaries and that records align with delivery documentation. FRA stated that some payments could not be processed immediately because of discrepancies in farmer details submitted during the delivery process.

The agency said issues such as mismatched names, incorrect mobile numbers, and incomplete registration details had contributed to the delays. It said these matters required correction before funds could be released, to prevent errors and safeguard public resources.

FRA emphasised that the outstanding cases represent a small fraction of the total number of farmers who delivered maize. The agency maintained that the 99 percent payment figure demonstrates government’s commitment to meeting its obligations to farmers within the agreed framework.

The agency further explained that the use of mobile money platforms was intended to improve efficiency, transparency, and speed in the payment process. It said the system allows farmers to receive payments directly without the need for physical cash handling, reducing delays and administrative challenges.

Government officials supporting the FRA position said the payment process was closely monitored to ensure accountability. They reiterated that funds for maize purchases had been made available and that payment delays were not caused by budgetary constraints.

The officials said farmers whose payments were still pending had been encouraged to engage with FRA offices to resolve verification issues. They said once discrepancies are corrected, payments would be processed without further delay.

FRA also urged farmers to ensure that their registration details are accurate and consistent across all documentation. The agency said proper documentation is critical to ensuring smooth processing of payments and avoiding future delays.

The agency said it remains committed to completing the payment exercise in full and assured farmers that no one who delivered maize would be excluded. Officials stated that all valid deliveries would be honoured once verification is finalised.

Government representatives said the payment of farmers is a priority because of the role agriculture plays in national food security and rural livelihoods. They said timely payments help farmers prepare for subsequent farming seasons and meet their financial obligations.

The officials further explained that challenges encountered during the payment process have provided lessons that will be applied in future procurement exercises. They said improvements would be made to registration and data capture processes to minimise verification problems.

FRA said it continues to engage farmers and stakeholders to address concerns and provide updates on the payment process. The agency maintained that transparency and communication are essential in maintaining trust with farmers.

The payment exercise forms part of government’s broader agricultural support framework, with the FRA playing a central role in managing strategic grain reserves and ensuring that farmers are paid for their produce.

Officials reiterated that the remaining payments would be completed once all verification issues are resolved, and they urged farmers affected by delays to remain patient as the process is finalised.

Credit/Source: News Diggers, Tuesday January 13, 2026

Tribalism cannot defeat economic progress, which is why Zambians must protect the UPND development trajectory.

Columns
Feature Politics

Lusaka Times Editor

January 13, 2026

Tribalism cannot defeat economic progress, which is why Zambians must protect the UPND development trajectory.

By Hon. Ponde C. Mecha
Former Member of Parliament – Chifunabuli Constituency

Since ascending to the presidency, Hakainde Hichilema has continued to carry a label that has little to do with reality: that of being a “tribalist.” This label has been recycled so often by his critics that it has almost become a lazy substitute for policy debate. Yet when one examines the conduct, decisions and development footprint of the UPND government, that accusation collapses under the weight of facts.

The most visible expression of this reality is the Constituency Development Fund (CDF). For the first time in Zambia’s history, development resources are being distributed to all constituencies using a uniform, non-discriminatory formula. No tribe, no region, no political affiliation is being favoured. Whether one lives in Southern, Northern, Eastern, Western or Luapula Province, the CDF envelope is the same. Schools, clinics, roads, youth and women empowerment projects are springing up across the country without reference to tribe or political colour.

President Hichilema himself has reinforced this message through action, not rhetoric. He has traversed all corners of Zambia, attending traditional ceremonies, engaging chiefs, meeting farmers, fishermen, miners and traders alike. His Cabinet is visibly balanced in terms of regional and tribal representation. These are not the actions of a tribalist; they are the marks of a unifier deliberately stitching together a fractured nation.

Sadly, the opposition has failed to respond to these realities with ideas. Their manifestos have been archived and are shy to share their practical ideas on economic recovery, energy security, debt restructuring, industrialisation or job creation. They have not only effectively abandoned policy but have replaced it with a weaponised tribal narrative. Unable to provide meaningful checks and balances, they would rather pull the country back into the governance confusion that has rocked their own alliances.

Luapula Province provides a practical illustration of why this narrative will not succeed.

For decades, Luapula was described as remote, marginal and economically unviable. Under President Hichilema, that thinking has been overturned. The installation of the Mabumba 50MW Solar Power Plant is not just an energy project; it is a strategic signal that Luapula is now central to Zambia’s localisation of industrialisation. Energy is the prerequisite for processing fish, cassava, timber, honey and other natural endowments that have long been exported in raw form. By securing power, government is laying the foundation for factories, cold rooms, agro-processing hubs and SME growth right in the heart of Luapula.

This is economic inclusion in practice.

It is therefore inconceivable that the people of Luapula, and indeed Zambians everywhere, can be persuaded to abandon such a trajectory in favour of cheap tribal slogans. CDF-financed classrooms, solar plants, rural health posts, roads, markets and youth enterprises do not speak the language of tribe. They speak the language of opportunity.

The opposition has chosen to turn a blind eye to this progress because it cannot compete with it. Having failed to organise themselves, they now seek to drag the country into the same paralysis they are experiencing internally. But Zambians are wiser. They know that national development cannot be reversed every five years because of wounded egos and empty alliances.

The real contest in 2026 is therefore not between tribes. It is between continuity and regression, between systems and slogans, between economic recovery and political mischief.

Zambia has entered a phase where reforms are beginning to bear fruit. Debt restructuring, fiscal discipline, expanded CDF, investment in energy, agriculture and decentralisation are all parts of a single recovery architecture. To abandon this path now would be to repeat the historical mistake of uprooting reform just when it starts to work.

Tribalism cannot defeat economic progress. Only Zambians themselves can, if they choose to believe those who have nothing to offer beyond division.

And I am confident they will not.

Mundubile Declares He Will Not Step Aside in PF Leadership Race

Headlines

Lusaka Times Editor

January 13, 2026

Mundubile Declares He Will Not Step Aside in PF Leadership Race

Brian Mundubile has declared that he will not back down from his campaign for the presidency of the Patriotic Front, insisting that the time has come for new leadership within the party.

Speaking in the context of ongoing internal developments, Mundubile stated that he remains committed to contesting the party’s top position and will continue engaging party structures and supporters as part of his campaign. He said stepping aside was not an option, maintaining that his bid was driven by a belief that the party requires a clear change in direction.

Mundubile indicated that his decision to remain in the race comes amid what he described as growing expectations from party members who want to see leadership renewal. He told supporters that his campaign is grounded in the need to restore confidence within the party and reposition it ahead of future political contests.

He rejected suggestions that his continued participation in the leadership contest was destabilising the party, stating that leadership competition should not be viewed as an act of defiance but as part of internal democratic processes. Mundubile said he was prepared to face the contest openly and allow party members to determine the outcome.

Addressing concerns about divisions within the party, Mundubile said differences of opinion should not be treated as hostility. He maintained that the Patriotic Front remains larger than any individual and that leadership contests should strengthen, not weaken, the organisation.

He further stated that his campaign has focused on engaging grassroots structures and listening to concerns raised by members across the country. According to Mundubile, these engagements have reinforced his resolve to continue seeking the party presidency.

Mundubile also dismissed assertions that he was acting in isolation, stating that he has continued to consult widely within the party. He said those consultations had encouraged him to remain in the race and articulate his vision for the party’s future leadership.

He reiterated that his objective was not personal advancement but what he described as the collective interest of the Patriotic Front. Mundubile said the party must be led by individuals who are prepared to make difficult decisions and provide firm leadership.

Mundubile said he remains confident that the leadership contest will ultimately produce a stronger and more united organisation. He said that his campaign would proceed until party processes are concluded.

UPND Media Director Pays Courtesy Call on Zambia’s High Commissioner to Namibia

Feature Politics

Guest Editor

January 13, 2026

UPND Media Director Pays Courtesy Call on Zambia’s High Commissioner to Namibia

UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe has paid a courtesy call on Zambia’s High Commissioner to Namibia, His Excellency Stephen Katuka, during which they discussed matters relating to governance, party mobilisation, and national development.

During the meeting, Mr. Simuuwe briefed the High Commissioner on the progress recorded by the UPND administration since assuming office, outlining developments achieved over the four-year period under President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership.

He also informed the High Commissioner that the UPND has begun reinforcing its mobilisation and recruitment programmes nationwide as part of preparations for the 2026 General Elections. Mr. Simuuwe said the party intends to intensify engagement with citizens and expand its membership base.

Mr. Simuuwe further stated that the party is focused on strengthening its grassroots structures and ensuring that information on its policies and development programmes is effectively communicated to the public.

In response, High Commissioner Katuka encouraged the UPND to continue highlighting development achievements when engaging with the public.

He also advised the party to enhance coordination with Members of Parliament, noting that alongside developments delivered through local authorities and the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), Members of Parliament play a key role in explaining and outlining development activities taking place in their constituencies.

We will pay all NRC officers, Government assures

General News

Guest Editor

January 13, 2026

We will pay all NRC officers, Government assures

Government has assured officers who participated in last year’s nationwide mobile National Registration Card (NRC) issuance exercise that all outstanding allowances will be fully paid.

Several officers who took part in the exercise raised concerns that they had not received their allowances more than six months after the programme ended.

The Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security said the payment of allowances is ongoing and is being processed through established Government systems.

In a statement issued yesterday, principal public relations officer Mwala Kalaluka explained that the mobile NRC registration exercise, which ran from April to November last year, was conducted to ensure that all eligible Zambians obtained legal identification ahead of the 2026 General Election.

According to the Ministry, the exercise targeted more than 3.5 million eligible citizens across all 156 constituencies nationwide and was aimed at strengthening the country’s democratic and electoral preparedness.

To carry out the programme, Government deployed officers from across the civil service, who worked in both urban and rural areas under varying field conditions to register and issue NRCs.

Kalaluka said Government remains committed to meeting its obligations to officers who participated in what it described as a critical national exercise.

He stated that allowance payments are being processed through the Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMIS) by the Department of National Registration, Passport and Citizenship, working in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and National Planning.

Government acknowledged that some officers experienced delays in receiving their allowances, particularly during Phase Two of the exercise.

The delays were attributed to logistical and technical challenges, including the shift from cash-based payments to the IFMIS platform, incorrect banking details, the need to open bank accounts for officers not on the regular Government payroll, and other verification processes aimed at safeguarding public funds.

The Ministry has since assured officers that all outstanding allowances will be paid in full, adding that the funds allocated for the payments remain secure.

Judge Recuses Herself from Manslaughter Case Involving Maria Zaloumis and Others

Economy

Guest Editor

January 13, 2026

Judge Recuses Herself from Manslaughter Case Involving Maria Zaloumis and Others

A High Court Judge has recused herself from presiding over a manslaughter case involving prominent tomato farmer Maria Zaloumis, also known as Zed Farmer, her husband, and others, following the death of Enoch Simfukwe.

Lusaka High Court Judge Ireen Mbewe, who was sitting in Kabwe, withdrew from the matter after stating that she is familiar with Ms Zaloumis’s family. Judge Mbewe said the decision was made in accordance with constitutional requirements that guarantee every person the right to a fair hearing conducted by an impartial court.

“It is on that basis that I recuse myself from hearing this matter and it shall be sent for reallocation,” Judge Mbewe told the accused persons.

She further explained that Ms Zaloumis, who is the daughter of Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis, and her co-accused will be informed of a new hearing date once the matter is reallocated to another judge.

Ms Zaloumis and her husband, Nathaniel Barthram, 34, both of Twin Palma in Lusaka, together with Gift Daka, 23, Fortune Mwitangeti, 27, and Daniel Chilowa, 40, employees of Tuzini Farms in Kabwe, are charged with manslaughter in connection with Mr Simfukwe’s death.

The prosecution alleges that Mr Simfukwe died on August 17, 2025, at Kabwe Central Hospital, where he had been admitted after allegedly being tied and tortured at Tuzini Farms.

In a related development, Mr Simfukwe’s mother has filed a civil lawsuit in the Lusaka High Court seeking damages over the death of her son.

In response to the civil claim, Ms Zaloumis and Mr Barthram have denied liability, stating that Mr Simfukwe was an intruder at the farm and that they did not torture him. It has further been alleged that Mr Simfukwe was found in possession of acid, which he allegedly intended to use to harm Ms Zaloumis.

Government Plans Modern Dry Port, TAZARA Revitalization

General News

Guest Editor

January 12, 2026

Government Plans Modern Dry Port, TAZARA Revitalization

Government has reiterated its commitment to the revitalization of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA), with plans to construct a modern dry port in Kapiri Mposhi as part of broader efforts to enhance logistics efficiency, industrialization and job creation.

Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet for Finance and Economic Development Siazongo Siakalenge said government was working with Chinese investors from China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) to develop the dry port along the TAZARA line, which is scheduled to undergo revitalisation in line with national development priorities and international standards.

Mr Siakalenge was speaking when he met Chinese delegation, led by CRCC Chief Economist Sun Gongxi, in Kapiri Mposhi, where they toured key sites including railway tracks, the proposed dry port location and the inter connecter between Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) and TAZARA.

He stated that Mr Siakalenge explained that the construction of a modern dry port will accelerate development in Kapiri Mposhi and create employment opportunities for local communities.

He said Kapiri Mposhi’s strategic location makes it ideal for the project, as the district lies at the centre of the country and hosts two major railway lines, the Zambia Railways Limited (ZRL) and TAZARA which link Zambia to regional and international markets.

Mr Siakalenge noted that TAZARA connects Zambia to Tanzania via Nakonde up to Tunduma, while ZRL, which runs from Livingstone to Ndola, intersects with TAZARA in Kapiri Mposhi, allowing for easier and more efficient movement of goods.

He disclosed that the revitalisation programme will include the development of a modern terminal station whose standards will be consistent with those of the Dar es Salaam terminal building, ensuring equity in infrastructure development between Zambia and the United Republic of Tanzania.

Mr Siakalenge explained that the government was assessing key economic sectors along the TAZARA corridor to determine how they can be developed to ensure the railway operates as a profitable business venture.

He added that cargo volumes hauled between Kapiri Mposhi and Dar es Salaam are expected to increase significantly, from the current levels of less than one million metric tons per annum to a minimum of 2.4 million metric tons annually.

Mr Siakalenge said the revitalisation will also synchronise operations between TAZARA and ZRL, with an interchange point and a common yard to allow seamless movement of cargo between the two railway systems.

He noted that additional facilities will be developed in Kapiri Mposhi, including enhanced border management infrastructure and upgraded customs operations, despite the absence of an international border, in line with modern border management concepts.

Mr Siakalenge commended the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) for effectively marketing Zambia both locally and internationally, adding that it was now time to move from discussions to implementation.

Meanwhile, Commerce, Trade and Industry Permanent Secretary for Industrialisation and Investment, Crusivia Hichikumba, described the rehabilitation of TAZARA as a major milestone that will support Zambia’s economic growth.

Mr Hichikumba said the improved railway system will be critical in supporting the planned increase in copper production from about 800,000 metric tons to three million metric tons, as well as boosting maize production to 10 million metric tons for both local and international markets

And CRCC Chief Economist Sun Gongxi said the revitalisation and concession of TAZARA, being implemented by CCECC under CRCC, is significant for both Zambia and Tanzania

Mr Sun said the project was expected to enhance freight volumes and stimulate economic growth, adding that the delegation’s visit was aimed at assessing how best to utilize available resources to develop areas around Kapiri Mposhi.

Meanwhile, TAZARA Regional Coordinator Frank Nasilele thanked the governments of Zambia and Tanzania for the decision to concession the railway line to CCECC.

Mr Nasilele said the concession agreement, which was signed on September 29, 2025, in China, will enable the revitalization of infrastructure, including rail tracks, locomotives and wagons.

He noted that although TAZARA currently moves about 2.5 million metric tons of cargo annually, the locomotive company was unable to manage this volume effectively under the current setup, adding that the concession will help increase capacity and efficiency.

Kapiri Mposhi District Commissioner Francis Hasalama said the construction of the dry port and revitalisation of TAZARA will benefit the local people through employment creation and position the district as a key transport and logistics hub.

Northern PEO assures of enough school spaces

Rural News

Guest Editor

January 12, 2026

Northern PEO assures of enough school spaces

Northern Province Education Officer (PEO), Mulambwa Nawa, has assured parents with children who have qualified to form one and grade ten of enough school spaces in the province.

Mr Nawa says the province has adequate places to accommodate all the pupils who have qualified.

He has since encouraged parents to start taking their children to school so that they do not miss out on lessons.

speaking when he inspected selected schools and interacted with pupils in Kasama today, Mr Nawa indicated that all schools in the province have opened and teachers have started conducting lessons.

The Provincial Education Officer has indicated that government has put up good education policies which are encouraging parents to send their children to school.

“For those sending their children to day schools, you don’t have to stress because there is no money to pay for school fees because it is free education now,” he said.

Mr Nawa added that parents should take advantage of the good education policies and take their children to school.

He further expressed happiness with the number of learners who have reported to school on the first day.

“We have a good number of pupils who have reported on the first day, and lessons have started in almost all the schools in the province, this is a positive start,” he indicated.

Mr Nawa said the turnout of learners is a clear indication that children are enjoying being in schools because of the good learning environment.

He also urged pupils to be disciplined as they embark on their academic journey for the year 2026.

Mr Nawa indicated that discipline is key in ensuring good performance of pupils.

And Emmanuel Mumba, a form one pupil at Kasama Boys Secondary School, expressed happiness that he has qualified for the new grade.

Mumba said he is happy that lessons have started on the first day of reporting and has urged those who have not yet reported to do so.

“I am happy that I am back to school, and we are already learning, I appeal to those who have not yet reported to report so that they are not left behind,” he said.

Mumba further commended teachers for the good reception they have accorded to new entrants, which he said has made them feel at home and concentrate on lessons

ECZ, political parties dialogue

Feature Politics

Guest Editor

January 12, 2026

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has held a District Political Party Liaison Committee Meeting aimed at fostering a spirit of collaboration that promotes peace, fairness, transparency and efficiency in the 15^th January, Chawama Parliamentary by – election.

Speaking during the meeting in Lusaka, ECZ Assistant District Electoral Officer, Victor Kagoli, added that the meeting was further meant to provide a platform for the commission and political parties to share knowledge and viewpoints about the electoral process.

The media reports that Mr Kagoli stated that the expectation of ECZ is that political parties understand its role, thus enhancing the electoral process.

Meanwhile, ECZ has announced that it is in the final stages of its preparatory work to undertake the delimitation exercise of constituencies.

According to a statement issued to the media by ECZ Chief Electoral Officer, Brown Kasaro, the delimitation exercise will be conducted with full engagements of stakeholders.

Mr Kasaro assured that the commission is treating the exercise with the urgency it deserves to ensure it is completed prior to the certification of the 2026 register of voters scheduled for April 30th, 2026.

Chief Justice opens 2026 Mansa High Court Criminal Sessions

General News

Guest Editor

January 12, 2026

Chief Justice opens 2026 Mansa High Court Criminal Sessions

Chief Justice, Mumba Malila, has opened the 2026 Mansa High Court Criminal Sessions with a call on the judiciary to deliver justice that is both swift and humane.

The media reports that speaking in Mansa District of Luapula Province, the Chief Justice stated that the criminal justice system is at a pivotal juncture in its reforms as he outlined ongoing reforms which started in 2022.

“I have, since assuming office as Chief Justice of Zambia, spearheaded efforts to reactivate the criminal justice system to strengthen what had been a weak criminal accountability mechanism,” he said.

Dr Malila revealed that in response to calls for sentencing guidelines relating to plea bargains, the Ministry of Justice has incorporated provisions in the Criminal Procedure Code (Amendment) Bill to empower the Chief Justice to implement them.

Building on the theme of consolidating Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), Dr Mumba described plea bargaining as a transformative tool and a bridge between law and humanity and emphasised that justice is about restoration and healing, not just punishment.

“I have no doubt that the promulgation of sentencing guidelines will significantly strengthen our efforts to champion plea bargaining. Once in place, such guidelines will provide accused persons with a clearer and more predictable understanding of the scale of sentences for various offences,” he said.

The Chief Justice stated that as evidenced by experiences in other jurisdictions, the proper implementation of plea bargaining anchored in principle, not only benefits the parties involved but serves communities as a whole.

The Chief Justice said the ADR inclusion has been as a result of the Ministry of Justice’s ongoing review of the Criminal Procedure Code and on the instruction of the Judiciary.

He pointed out that employing plea bargaining was responsible to safeguard the rights of the accused, protect the interests of victims, and uphold public confidence in Zambia’s criminal justice system.

Earlier, Presiding High Court Judge, Bubile Shonga, presented a report, echoing the call for timely justice.

Judge Shonga noted that the Mansa High Court entered 2026 with no case backlog for the eighth consecutive year.

Detailing operational strides, she disclosed that the court held four gazetted and two special criminal sessions in 2025, receiving 199 cases and conclusively disposing of 176.

Judge Shonga also highlighted critical challenges, including the lack of a dedicated High Court building, insufficient child-friendly facilities, and severe overcrowding in correctional facilities.

She further condemned the persistent frequency of defilement cases and endemic mob killings linked to witchcraft suspicions.

“This persistence is a grave reminder that punishment alone cannot eradicate crime, it must be accompanied by sustained community education and moral vigilance,” she said.

Judge Shonga called on traditional and church leaders to educate communities on the sanctity of life and the rule of law.

ECZ meets law enforcement agencies ahead of Chawama by – elections

Feature Politics

Guest Editor

January 12, 2026

ECZ meets law enforcement agencies ahead of Chawama by – elections

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) says failure by the law enforcement agencies to act professionally and impartiality can lead to insecurity, voter intimidation and disruption of electoral processes.

Assistant Lusaka District Electoral Officer, Victor Kagoli, says it is the role of law enforcement agencies to be disciplined and responsible as they execute their duties.

The media reports that Mr Kagoli further notes that attaining a credible election calls for the input of law enforcement agencies as a stakeholder.

He said this at Nakatindi Hall in Lusaka today when he addressed police officers ahead of the forthcoming Chawama Parliamentary by – election slated for Thursday, January 15, 2026.

Mr Kagoli has commended the men and women in uniform for the peaceful campaign atmosphere in Chawama.

The Chawama Parliamentary seat was declared vacant by Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, following the long absence of Member of Parliament, Tasila Lungu from parliamentary sessions.

The ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) is battling it out alongside eight other opposition candidates, independent included.

Government Dismisses Luapula Project Abandonment Claims

General News

Guest Editor

January 12, 2026

Government Dismisses Luapula Project Abandonment Claims

Government has dispelled claims that major infrastructure projects in Luapula Province have been abandoned.

Luapula Province Minister, Engineer Nason Musonda has maintained that all construction of Mansa Airport and works on the major road projects were progressing as planned.

The media reports that, during a media briefing, Engineer Musonda indicated that contractors on key projects that include Musaila–Lubwe–Kasaba, Kashikishi–Chienge Roads and Mansa Airport were actively on site.

“Government officially commenced works on key projects in October 2025, among them the Musaila–Lubwe–Kasaba Road, the Kashikishi–Chienge Road, and the provincial airport and none of these projects have stalled,” Engineer Musonda said.

He disclosed that the 80 Kilometre Musaila–Lubwe–Kasaba Road and covering 5 Kilometres of township roads in Chifunabuli valued at about K937 million recorded significant preparatory progress.

Eng. Musonda disclosed that the contractor has completed about 98 percent of site camp establishment in Chifunabuli, while 40 percent of construction equipment was already on site, with full mobilisation expected by the end of February, 2026.

The Minister explained that full-scale construction works were scheduled to commence towards the end of March or early April, once the rainy season subsides.

Engineer Musonda said that the contractor for Kashikishi-Chienge Road is currently on-site establishing camps and mobilising equipment.

“On the Kashikishi–Chienge Road, also known as the Nchelenge–Chienge Road the contractor is on site establishing the camp and also mobilising the equipment,” Engineer Musonda said.

The Minister disclosed that the 95 Kilometre Kashikishi-Chienge Road project valued at over K1.9 billion was expected to significantly enhance trade, fishing, agriculture and cross-border commerce with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) once completed.

Engineer Musonda further commended the contractor, GED for remaining on site during the rainy season, revealing that bridge works, including those on the Luongo River along the Chalwe Road, are actively progressing.

He also confirmed steady progress on the construction and upgrade of Mansa Airport adding that advanced procurement processes are underway for the long-awaited Pedicle Road, which he described as a critical economic lifeline for Luapula Province.

The Minister also confirmed that funds have already been allocated in the 2026 National Budget to commence construction works.

” The New Dawn Administration is implementing infrastructure projects methodically and transparently, following successful debt restructuring that created fiscal space for capital-intensive investments,” Engineer Musonda said.

Engineer Musonda assured the public that all ongoing road works, bridge and airport projects will deliver lasting economic benefits to the province and the nation

Northern Judiciary Praised for Efficient Case Handling

General News

Guest Editor

January 12, 2026

Northern Judiciary Praised for Efficient Case Handling

Government has commended the judiciary in Northern Province for remaining up to date in handling both criminal and civil matters in the past four years.

Northern Province Permanent Secretary Bernard Mpundu said the judiciary and stakeholders in the justice delivery system have done a commendable job in reducing the backlog of criminal and civil matters in the province.

Mr Mpundu has reaffirmed government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and promoting access to justice for all Zambians.

The permanent secretary was speaking when he officiated at the ceremonial opening of the Kasama High Court Criminal Sessions of 2026 at the Kasama High Court Building today.

“We want to appreciate the judiciary in the Northern Province for working tirelessly despite challenges to eliminate the backlog and be current in both criminal and civil matters in the province; this has been the status quo for the past four years,” Mr Mpundu said.

He explained that government was also aware of the challenges the judiciary is facing which have impacted the execution of its legal mandate.

Mr Mpundu said government understood and appreciated the need of the judiciary to administer justice for all in an independent, competent and timely manner.

“The government is committed to upholding the rule of law and promoting access to justice. This remains the government’s position in ensuring that access to justice is a reality,” Mr Mpundu said.

And Judge in Charge of Kasama High Court Justice Matthew Zulu reported that the station managed to meet its expected performance in the past year.

Judge Zulu revealed that in 2025, the Kasama High Court successfully held a total of five gazetted and three mini criminal high court sessions.

He revealed that the court was expected to hold another five gazetted criminal sessions this year, while civil matters will be heard throughout the year.

He further disclosed that during 2025, a total of 127 criminal matters were received by the high court, of which 113 were fully disposed off.

“Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in criminal cases last year has been beneficial to the judiciary and stakeholders in the criminal justice system, as it has helped not only in the reduction of backlog but also in the implementation of efficiency in the delivery of criminal justice by saving costs and time,” he said.

Judge Zulu reiterated the commitment by the judiciary to delivering timely and quality justice.

He said the high court in Kasama was steadfastly committed to reducing and eliminating the backlog in criminal and civil matters.

Speaking during the court procession, Zambia Correctional Service Northern Region Commanding Officer Evelyn Simoonga revealed that the province has a total of 1,152 inmates as of Monday 12 January 2026 in morning.

North-West UPND Chairperson Urges Patience Among Aspirants

Feature Politics

Guest Editor

January 12, 2026

North-West UPND Chairperson Urges Patience Among Aspirants

Northwestern United Party for National Development (UPND) Provincial Chairperson Adam Sapezo has called for patience among party members aspiring for positions ahead of the August 13th general elections.

Mr Sapezo said this is was the right time for party members to start coming out in the open and declare interest to contest on various positions saying they should wait until Parliament was dissolved to do so.

He said this in an interview with the media alongside a public event that was head to celebrate the enactment of the constitution amendment bill number seven held at Kisasa area in Kalumbila District over the weekend.

Mr Sapezo described the act as indiscipline.

“If these members that are aspiring are UPND and those incumbents, be it Members of Parliament, councilors, council Chairpersons and mayors they are all UPND why start fighting them now,” he said.

Mr Sapezo said those aspiring candidates must wait for the term of office for the incumbents to come to an end and then later aspire and conduct their campaigns.

Meanwhile, he has further called for patience in matters patterning to delimitation of Constituencies until the Electoral Commission Of Zambia officially announces those Constituencies that are going to be delimited.

And Solwezi West Member of Parliament Nicholas Mukumbi said the campaign period has not yet been officially opened by the party but welcomed those who want to aspire for various positions in his Constituency ahead of the polls.

FRA Pays 17,500 Mumbwa Farmers

Rural News

Guest Editor

January 12, 2026

A total of 17,500 farmers in Mumbwa District in Central Province, have been paid for supplying maize grain to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA).

Mumbwa District Commissioner Namukulo Hayumbu has confirmed the disbursement of over K138 million.

“We have continued to pay the remaining farmers and we are glad that we were one of the districts which produced a lot of maize under the 2024-2025 farming season,” Mrs Hayumbu said.

The District Commissioner, has encouraged farmers to continue contributing to the food security of the country.

Rosaline Mukelabai, a farmer has explained gratitude to government for the swift response to farmers complaints.

Mrs Mukelabai also thanked government for the payments stating it has assisted her and many farmers in purchasing farming inputs for the 2025-2026 farming season.

“We appeal to government to do more this year in ensuring that farmers are paid on time and also that our maize is purchased at a good price,” Ms Mukelabai said.

Meanwhile, Mrs Hayumbu said Mumbwa has received solar panels under the solarisation of district administrations program.

“We are very grateful to government for this installation that we have received on top of the zero-load shedding which Mumbwa has enjoyed since 2021,” she said.

She said the installation will assist the district administration to run smoothly in case of any ZESCO power fault.

“We encourage the business community and also those that are able to afford solar power to invest in it and also embrace energy diversification,” Mrs Hayumbu said.