Advertisement Banner
Sunday, August 3, 2025
Subscribe
Advertisement Banner
Home Blog Page 183

Popular figure Simon Mwewa Lane received 6 month jail sentence.

Chief Editor
-
30
Popular figure Simon Mwewa Lane received 6 month jail sentence.

Chitambala Mwewa, widely recognized as Simon Mwewa Lane, has been sentenced to six months of simple imprisonment following his conviction on charges of malicious damage to property. The verdict was delivered by Lusaka Magistrate Fine Mayambu, who found Mr. Chitambala guilty based on compelling evidence presented during the trial.

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.

Defending himself in court, Mr. Chitambala initially pleaded not guilty to the charges. However, after four witnesses testified in the matter, the magistrate established a prima facie case against him. Magistrate Mayambu expressed disappointment in Chitambala’s actions, highlighting the irresponsibility of damaging the tires without due consideration for the safety of the passengers aboard the minibus.

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.

President Hichilema Takes Bold Steps to Combat Cholera Outbreak

Chief Editor
-
10
President Hichilema Takes Bold Steps to Combat Cholera Outbreak

In an urgent response to the escalating cholera outbreak in Zambia, President Hakainde Hichilema has declared a crucial shift towards domestic cholera vaccine production. Addressing the media at Community House, President Hichilema pledged the government’s unwavering commitment to do everything possible to ensure the availability of vaccines, asserting that this strategic move is vital for effectively containing the disease.

President Hichilema announced that stringent and costly measures would be implemented to prevent future cholera outbreaks, underlining the gravity of the situation. To address the root causes of cholera, he emphasized the necessity of constructing roads and drainages in compounds, irrespective of the associated costs, to facilitate better access for emergency services. The President highlighted that the absence of infrastructure in certain compounds creates a conducive environment for cholera to thrive.

In a forward-looking directive, President Hichilema mandated that all new settlements must undergo comprehensive servicing, including the provision of water, roads, and drainages, before being allocated to residents. This proactive approach aims to eliminate potential breeding grounds for cholera and fortify the country’s defenses against future outbreaks.

Health Advisor Roma Chilengi, speaking on behalf of President Hichilema, disclosed that one million doses of cholera vaccines are expected to arrive in the country on January 14, 2024. These vaccines, provided by the World Health Organization (WHO) in response to the current outbreak, will play a pivotal role in the ongoing efforts to combat the cholera crisis.

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo announced her intention to invoke the Public Health Act, to introduce measures aimed at controlling and preventing the further spread of cholera. By leveraging this legislation, Masebo aims to enforce laws that will contribute to the eradication of cholera, showcasing the government’s resolute stance on public health.

In a symbolic gesture of support and acknowledgment of the response teams, President Hichilema is scheduled to visit the National Cholera Treatment Centre at the National Heroes Stadium and other cholera treatment centers in Lusaka.

Government Allocates 36 Million Kwacha to Boost Water Supply in Peri-Urban Areas to Tackle Cholera Spread

Chief Editor
-
7
Government Allocates 36 Million Kwacha to Boost Water Supply in Peri-Urban Areas to Tackle Cholera Spread

In an effort to combat the spread of cholera, the government has disbursed 36 million Kwacha to improve water supply in peri-urban regions. The allocated funds are designated for the completion and installation of water tanks and projects in Kanyama, Garden House, and Chawama Compounds.

Water Development Minister Mike Mposha confirmed that the 12 water kiosks in Kanyama Compound, established under the 2017 emergency water project, are now operational. Additionally, Mr. Mposha assured that the ongoing water project in Garden House would be finalized.

The provision of free water aligns with the Presidential directive to discourage the use of shallow wells, promoting safer water sources. Jilly Chiyombwe, Managing Director of Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Company, stated that water tanks are being refilled multiple times daily to meet the demand.

Heavy Rains Cause Structural Damage in Kanchibiya, Muchinga Province

Chief Editor
-
1
Heavy Rains Cause Structural Damage in Kanchibiya, Muchinga Province

Over 30 houses in Kanchibiya district, Muchinga Province, have collapsed due to continuous heavy rains over the past seven days. Kanchibiya Member of Parliament, Sunday Chanda, reported that the severe weather conditions have also led to the destruction of a crucial road connecting the region to the Zampalm plantation. The Chambishi – Chinkobo road is another major route significantly impacted by flooding.

Mr. Chanda has urgently appealed to the government to intervene and assist the affected residents by initiating the rehabilitation of feeder roads damaged by the persistent rains.

Best Christmas Gift

Chief Editor
-
2
Best Christmas Gift

By Mwizenge S, Tembo, Ph. D.

Emeritus Professor of Sociology

We rarely see our two grandchildren Jane 7, and Mary 9, (not their real names to protect their privacy). They live with their parents three thousand miles or five thousand kms away from Virginia on the west coast. Once we learned they would be spending Christmas with us, the excited breathless plans, anticipation, preparations, and the countdown started on both sides. Their grandmother was working herself to death just to make sure the house and everything could be as clean as it could. I made sure all my man work was in order as I cleaned the yard one last time, picked up and put away anything dangerous. Except I should have chopped down the two trees in our front yard.

I drove them from the airport carrying the most precious cargo. I did not drive too fast or too slowly on the interstate. If something bad had happened, I did not want to risk it being my fault. Once we arrived at the house, the girls tossed their coats on the living room floor and ran outside. Their parents had to tell them to wear their winter coats. They chased each other in and out of the back porch opening and slamming closing the back porch thin wooden doors. My son warned that the children would wreck the porch doors. Whereupon I told him I would have the doors fixed once they are gone. They could play as much as they wanted.

A few things that I had not seen in over twenty years since my own children were growing. The girls did not walk once in the house. Instead, they either ran, skipped and hopped like bunnies or both as they screamed and giggled continuously. It was the job of the parents to regulate these apparently outrageous indoor behaviors. Meanwhile, I was enjoying the novelty of these spectacles all the time.

Their parents said they did not have a backyard at home and this is why the children were so excited to be outside. Two days later, Jane rushed into the house to report that Mary had fallen from the tree and could not get up and was crying in pain. The parents rushed Mary to the Rockingham Memorial Hospital (RMH) emergency room where they spent hours. X-rays showed she had a hairline fracture in her tailbone. I was surprised when my 34 years old son told me he remembers falling down climbing the same maple tree when he was a child in the early 1990s. The following morning Mary walked with a slight limp. A few days later she and the family were all snow tubing at Massanutten skiing resort. I went tubing and it was thrilling.

As a family, we talked, played board games, watched children’s TV and movies, children had art work drawings, we cooked and ate at home and restaurants, we ate take out, laughed, and visited with older family friends when my grown children were growing up in the area and going to school.

Her grandmother had bought Jane 7, a doll whom Jane promptly named Fefey. Jane and I were sitting alone shoulder to shoulder at the empty dining room table holding spirited conversations. Fefey had 2 long human-like legs, was wearing a fluffy white tutu, and had the face of a cat. Jane is a cat person. I had told Jane that grandpa always sleeps with one eye open. Because he hides cookies in his bedroom so that even when grandma tries to steal one of grandpa’s cookies, grandpa’s one open eye will catch grandma red handed in the act. I told Jane that if Fefey sneaked into the bedroom to steal one of my cookies, I would call the police to come and arrest her.

“If grandpa called the police, grandpa would be lying because Fefey would be asleep with me in my bed,” Jane said. “Fefey would call the police and say “I did not steal the cookies. I am asleep with my friend Jane,” Jane conveyed Fefey’s protest message to the cops with such a tiny whinny high-pitched voice that it melted my heart.

“Fefey is right,” I said. “Grandpa’s one eye made a mistake. I would tell the cops that Fefey was not stealing cookies. She was asleep with Jane in her bed.”

What I really wanted to say was that there are the biggest politicians real liars today in America causing harm and death. But what would I be doing introducing adult vile politics to a 7-year-old? This is when I came to realize why I enjoyed my time with my grandfather 65 years ago in 1959 as a five-year-old exchanging humorous innocence banter with my grandfather. Spending time with grandchildren was the best Christmas gift ever.

Inflation: What’s bad and worse about it, and how to prevent the ugly?

Chief Editor
-
5
Inflation: What’s bad and worse about it, and how to prevent the ugly?

By Mussie Delelegn Arega (PhD)

Part 1

As many economists have reminded us repeatedly, economics is not a natural or experimental science, despite what many other economists would like to think. Indeed, the subject of economics is known for controversies and conflicts of ideas. It is known also for hypothesizing abstract economic theories and the underlying conceptual frameworks of the complex world. A good example is the notion of “full or near-full employment”. In the real world, this theoretical scenario cannot be achieved due to internal dynamics and random shocks. In theory, full employment occurs when total expenditures in an economy are equal to total national income, and when total savings are equal to total planned investments. Such an equilibrium can be achieved at local level, but it is more daunting to attain at the economy-wide level or on a global scale. Full employment also means that all scarce resources, particularly labour and capital, are fully employed and when prices and wages are harmoniously stable. In such situations, the economy can be said to be in equilibrium. The assumption is that the saving-consumption ratio of households, the volume of investment and total government spending determine the equilibrium level of output or the gross national product (GDP).

However, a single shock such as a rise in general prices can disrupt an equilibrium, even if it were to be achieved for a short period of time. For instance, an increase in prices of all or most consumer items can cause a gap between total expenditure and national income-usually known as an “inflationary gap”. The desired objective is not to achieve zero inflation rate on a permanent basis. To the contrary, a manageable level of inflationary gap can be good for the economy if there are sound polices and instruments to put effective checks and balances to contain further price rises. In fact, moderate inflation or a manageable level of inflationary gap is more desirable to an economy as it can act as an incentive to producers to boost supplies. This notwithstanding, the inflationary gap that potentially leads to higher prices needs to be reduced or eliminated. This can be done through a mix of monetary and fiscal policy instruments such as taxation, interest rate management and a reduction in government expenditure for maintaining the economy at equilibrium level. However, this is not straightforward or automatic and policy instruments may not be able to reduce the inflationary gap or curb inflation, particularly in developing countries that face a series of structural challenges.

The main objectives of this article are two-folds: (a) to articulate the concept of inflation its underlying causes in a way that non-economists can understand; and (b) to provoke an informed and evidence-based discussion on the subject while offering insights as to what can be done to curb inflation in Ethiopia and other countries of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). By using the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the average growth rates in general prices, the article compares inflation in Ethiopia with the average of sub-Saharan Africa, Africa as a whole, and the developing world. It also provides a data-driven and evidence-based comparison of the devaluation of the Ethiopian Birr vis-à-vis the US Dollar in relation to the Ethiopian Consumer Price Index. The article proposes a series of policy measures and institutional mechanisms to decisively deal with inflation. These include fostering economy-wide productive capacities to boost the supply of goods and services to exact higher demand, while generating long-term inclusive growth.
Productive capacities are key for economic growth and export diversification, including value addition as well as removing supply-side distortionary trade barriers. Additional policy proposals include the need to fight corruption and improve governance; and build peace and social cohesion to ensure political stability. The article calls for putting in place independent institutional arrangements, such as central banks, effective policy instruments, including inflation-targeting frameworks, transparency in monetary and fiscal policies, managing market expectations and improving market information systems. The ultimate objective of these recommendations is to keep moderate inflation side-by-side with monetary stability and sustainable economic growth with higher levels of employment and substantial poverty reduction. The aim is also to explore ways and means of assisting how to best protect the poor and more vulnerable sections of society who are the direct victims of price rises. Low wage earners and populations with fixed incomes such as pensioners are among the casualties of high inflation who need social protection in the form of safety nets.

What is inflation and what are its plausible causes?

In simple non-technical terms, inflation is a consistent and prolonged general increase in prices for a basket of goods and services consumed or used on a day-to-day basis by households. Such an increase in the prices of consumer goods and services also reduces the purchasing power of the income of households and the value of the local currency. This means that a temporal or periodic roller-coaster price rise of a few goods and services with little or no impact on the purchasing power of societies does not qualify as inflation. Inflation also means that consumers will pay more for the same quality and quantity of goods and services when compared with a pre-inflationary period. With inflation, food, school supplies for children, fuel, shelters (rentals), electricity, transportation, clothing, and footwear, as well as medicines will become more expensive than they used to be. Households with low and constant income will forgo some of the goods and services they used to afford in lower or inflation- free times. As shall be discussed in detail in this article, high inflation makes an economy anemic by heightening systemic risks, uncertainties, and structural vulnerability. Not only does it affect current socioeconomic performance, but it also erodes past gains and undermines future growth and the development prospects of developing countries. If not contained, high inflation may also entrain social unrest, corruption and political instability, frustrating efforts to foster political consensus and nation-building.
Inflation is transmitted across sectors, to societies and the real economy through diverse channels and mechanisms. It weakens the purchasing power of the local currency, erodes investor confidence, undermines savings and investments, leads to persistent budget and trade deficits, as well as to heavy indebtedness. Depending on the speed and magnitude, inflation adversely impacts the purchasing power of the local currency, diminishing the ability of households to pay for goods and services with their income, compromising their overall economic wellbeing.

Based on underlying causes, inflation can be grouped into three broad categories: The first is demand-pull inflation which is the type of inflation caused by an excess in aggregate demand for goods and services over aggregate supply in the economy. Excessive aggregate demand over aggregate supply can be caused by scarcity of production (supply shocks), increases in expendable income of consumers, increase in exports of domestically consumable goods, hoarding and due to population growth or the combination of these. It can also occur because of the availability of easy credit, increase in government expenditures and indirect taxes, availability of excess money supply in an economy, continuously growing budget deficits or expansionary monetary policies, etc.
The second type of inflation is cost-push inflation, which occurs due to an increase in the cost of production of goods and services. A sudden rise in intermediate goods used in the production of goods and services such as energy (an increase in oil prices or the prices of electricity), wages, and taxation can trigger inflationary pressure in an economy by pushing up the cost of production of goods and services. Similarly, uncontrollable price increases in farm inputs such as fertilizers, variety seeds or pesticides can also trigger food inflation.

The third type of inflation by causative factors is structural inflation or bottleneck inflation. This type of inflation is caused by deep-rooted structural rigidity in an economy such as poor infrastructure, supply chain disruption, market imperfection, institutional bottlenecks and due to bad policy formulation and implementation. In structurally weak and vulnerable economies such as Ethiopia and others in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), the three types of inflation can coexist in parallel or in combination. Identifying and understanding the type of inflation in an economy is critically important to formulate and implement appropriate mitigating policies and strategies. In sum, inflation is the cause and effect of asymmetry in aggregate demand and aggregate supply, combined with expectations and random (unexpected) shocks.

However, monetarists and Keynesian economists argue that the sole cause of persistently high inflation is the oversupply of money in an economy. According to them, the cure is to reduce money supply in an economy even if this leads to “degrowth” or deceleration in economic growth. In other words, the sole cause of inflation is governments’ monetary and fiscal policies, and as such the remedies should come from them. Historical and empirical evidence show that unforeseen shocks (be they economic, financial, climate change or health related) can disturb the equilibrium aggregate demand and aggregate supply. For instance, since the COVID-19 pandemic, the global economy has been reeling from socioeconomic turbulence and tribulations including temporal general price rises. Massive injections of monetary and fiscal stimulus packages, lavish incentives, and direct cash transfers in major economies during the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to skyrocketing aggregate demand in excess of aggregate supply, causing high inflation nationally and globally. Adding fuel to the fire, the war in Ukraine has exacerbated high inflation and the resulting economic challenges for households, individuals, and economies at large. The current conflict in the Middle East may further exacerbate inflation by disrupting oil exports from the region which may heighten global risks, uncertainties, and socioeconomic difficulties, if an end is not put in place as urgently as possible. Overall, the cascading crises, random shocks and resulting headwinds are weighing heavily on the global economy. More so on the growth and development prospects of developing countries, with devastating consequences for the poor, the weak and marginalized sections of societies.
Experience shows that monetary and fiscal policies may not be the most effective policies for taming inflation. To date, despite efforts to curb inflation globally, economies across the world are having tough times to do so. This also compounds efforts to resuscitate economic growth, while at the same time, maintaining macroeconomic stability. For economies of SSA, high inflation may further deepen and entrench structural economic problems of the region. Falling international commodity prices, external debt overhang, growing trade deficits, declining agricultural production and productivity, combined with demographic trends may further complicate economic viability, revival, and overall socioeconomic progress of the sub-region. In Ethiopia, for example, a combination of a protracted civil war, the devastating impact of climate change particularly on its underdeveloped agriculture sector, excessive money supply in the economy, mounting external debt burden and galloping inflation have caused serious socioeconomic imbalances making it difficult to imagine how the country could emerge from this predicament. Under such multi-faceted socioeconomic, political, and environmental distress, it is difficult to contemplate the long-term growth and transformation prospects of the Ethiopian economy. Inflation in Ethiopia has been consistently higher than the average for sub-Saharan Africa, Africa and much higher than that of other developing economies.

As with the underlying causes, the typology of inflation can also vary depending on the speed and evolution of price rises in an economy. Creeping inflation (also called crawling, slow-moving or mild inflation) is an inflation that occurs in an economy for a longer period without being perceived by consumers or households worrying. This type of inflation (usually in lower single digits) is not dangerous to an economy. In fact, economists regard such an inflation as an incentive to producers. This is because mild inflation encourages entrepreneurs and producers to increase output to exact growing demand with sustained and long-term gains or profits. Such an inflation is also key for expanding employment opportunities without necessarily increasing wages per worker or per output. When the price rise reaches upper single digits (7%-9%), crawling inflation becomes walking or trolling inflation. Walking or trolling inflation, although still manageable, is a warning sign for policymakers to revisit their monetary and fiscal policies to curb further rises in general prices. If no action is taken to tame walking inflation, it leads to running inflation-usually at the rate of above 10 % but lower than 20%. Still monetary and fiscal authorities have ample room for maneuvering and for curbing walking inflation without austerity measures or before it inflicts significant costs to the economy and society.

When inflation rates reach double digits (between 20% and 50%) per year, it is called galloping inflation, which is regarded as very high inflation. This type of inflation has reached a level where it cannot be reduced or tamed without belt-tightening or austerity measures, often at a very high cost to the economy and society. The most worrying type of inflation is known as hyperinflation, which is not only accelerating in speed (more than 50% a year), but the range and magnitude of increase is very large, observed in a very short span of time. During hyperinflation, prices of consumer items can double or triple overnight or in a single day, with the value of local currency fast collapsing.
After World War II, Hungary has seen one of the worst phenomena of hyperinflation with prices doubling every 15 hours. In recent years (2007-2008), from SSA, Zimbabwe was a classical case for hyperinflation with prices doubling every day. In 2023, Venezuela is an exception in registering an estimated increase in consumer prices at 360 percent, according to the latest figures from the International Monetary Fund.

In all cases, hyperinflation led to acute shortage of consumer items including food and medicine, with prices skyrocketing, the value of local currency fast collapsing, and with grim overall socioeconomic circumstances. Ethiopia and other countries of SSA that have already registered or approaching galloping inflation, must undertake drastic, coordinated, and robust policy measures to avoid getting into hyperinflation. It is important to note that the above-mentioned types of inflation are not sequential occurrences or phenomena. Any type of inflation can be observed in an economy depending on the main drivers, accelerators, and key causative factors. That is to say that galloping or hyperinflation can occur without an economy necessarily passing through crawling, walking, or running inflation.

President Hichilema Cuts Holiday Short to Tackle Cholera Crisis

Chief Editor
-
40
President Hichilema Cuts Holiday Short to Tackle Cholera Crisis

President Hakainde Hichilema has curtailed his holiday in Southern Province to take more direct and frontline leadership in addressing the escalating cholera outbreak.

The decision was communicated through a Facebook post, urging citizens to follow guidelines such as handwashing, boiling drinking water, thorough cooking of food, and avoiding handshakes.

President Hichilema emphasized the collective effort needed to swiftly curb the cholera situation in Zambia.

25 People have died due to cholera in the last 24hrs.

Judge Mbuzi alarmed by levels of child offenders in Western Province

Chief Editor
-
7
Judge Mbuzi alarmed by levels of child offenders in Western Province

Mongu Resident Judge John Mbuzi has called for stringent measures aimed at curbing the alarming levels of child offenders in Western Province.

And Western Province Minister Kapelwa Mbangweta appealed to all parents and guardians in the province to ensure their children are brought up uprightly.

Judge Mbuzi stated that the number of child offenders and murder cases are on the rise in the region, a scenario he said needs concerted effort from all stakeholders in the region.
He said this during official opening of 2024 criminal session under the theme “Accelerated and uncompromised justice ” held at Mongu High Court ground.

Judge Mbuzi said the opening of the criminal session allows all stakeholders to reflect on the successes and challenges encountered in the previous criminal session so that progress can be achieved as learning from the past encourages the judicial system to improve.
“Upon my arrival as Judge In – Charge of the Mongu High Court last year, I found a number of criminal cases pending trial of about three hundred cases but we managed to bring cases to one hundred and five.

Meanwhile, Mr Mbangweta appealed to all parents and guardians in the province to ensure their children are brought up uprightly.
Mr Mbangweta pledged that his office will work closely with all relevant security wings to ensure there is law and order in the province.

Cholera Claims 25 Lives in 24 Hours; VP Urges Youth-Led Prevention

Chief Editor
-
6
Cholera Claims 25 Lives in 24 Hours; VP Urges Youth-Led Prevention

In the wake of a devastating surge in cholera cases, Vice President Mutale Nalumango expressed her deep concern about the alarming number of young people falling victim to the waterborne disease. During her visit to the National Cholera Management Centre at Lusaka’s Heroes Stadium, Mrs. Nalumango emphasized the need for youth involvement in community sensitization efforts to prevent and control cholera.

“It is disheartening to witness a high incidence of cholera among the youth, who should be at the forefront of educating communities about the prevention and control of this waterborne disease,” remarked the Vice President. She appealed to all young citizens to take the lead in spreading awareness within their communities.

Mrs. Nalumango urged those experiencing symptoms not to resort to self-treatment but instead seek assistance at the nearest health posts to prevent further fatalities. Meanwhile, Health Minister Sylvia Masebo linked the escalating cholera cases to unplanned housing in Lusaka, making it challenging to maintain proper sanitation measures. She disclosed that since the opening of the cholera management center, 99 percent of cases and related deaths have been reported in Lusaka.

Accompanied by Health Minister Sylvia Masebo, Local Government and Rural Development Minister Garry Nkombo, Water and Sanitation Minister Mike Mposha, and other senior government officials, Vice President Nalumango toured the hospital wards to assess the situation firsthand.

Meheba Refuge Settlement To Have Electricity For The First Time

Chief Editor
-
9
Meheba Refuge Settlement To Have Electricity For The First Time

The Rural Electrification Authority (REA) has initiated the electrification project for Meheba Refugee Settlement and its surrounding areas in Kalumbila District, North Western Province, marking a significant step toward modernizing the area that has been without power since its establishment in 1970.

REA Western Regional Manager Moonga Muungo revealed that the project, estimated at over K9.9 million, has contracted Kailjee Construction Zambia Limited for the first phase. The initial contract involves installing 33KV overhead lines covering a distance of 11.44 kilometers and 400 volts overhead lines along a stretch of 10.9 kilometers.

Mr. Muungo disclosed that the contracted company has already commenced the line route survey, marking the beginning of the electrification process. The entire project is expected to take approximately 252 days, with a targeted completion date set for July 12, 2024.

Areas set to benefit from the electrification initiative include Kananga, Meheba A and B, and Jangaimo, all contributing to the government’s commitment to modernize the settlement for the approximately 34,000 residents.

Meheba Refugee Settlement, a vital area accommodating individuals of concern since 1970, has been relying solely on generators due to the lack of a sustainable power source. The electrification project aims to address this longstanding challenge, bringing essential infrastructure and improved living conditions to the residents.

The electrification efforts align with broader national goals to enhance access to electricity in various regions, contributing to the overall development and well-being of communities across Zambia.

11-Year-Old Sole Caretaker for Sick Father Receives Support Amidst Family Abandonment

Chief Editor
-
10
11-Year-Old Sole Caretaker for Sick Father Receives Support Amidst Family Abandonment

In a heart-wrenching situation, an 11-year-old boy from Mbala finds himself as the primary caregiver for his critically ill 49-year-old father, Reuben Musukuma, admitted to the University Teaching Hospitals (UTH) in Lusaka. Mr. Musukuma has been diagnosed with a tuberculosis relapse and suspected lung cancer, marking six months of deteriorating health.

The boy, who has been by his father’s side throughout this challenging period, shared the difficult circumstances they face. “My father has been unwell for the past six months, and I have been the only one by his side as my mother died when I was still a baby. It is my father who has raised me, and he is the only relative I have ever known,” he expressed in an interview conducted in the presence of UTH acting public relations officer Brilliant Mukuma and his father.

The situation took a dire turn when Mr. Musukuma’s health deteriorated significantly, leading to his referral to UTH for further treatment. The boy attempted to seek support from relatives, as suggested by his father, but encountered rejection and denial of responsibility from those approached. With no other family willing to help, the 11-year-old found himself as the sole caretaker of his father in a critical condition.

UTH acting public relations officer Brilliant Mukuma highlighted the severity of Mr. Musukuma’s condition, stating that the young boy is the only known relative, and there are no other family members willing to offer assistance. The social welfare department has been informed of the situation, and efforts are being made to find a solution.

Upon learning of this distressing situation through the media, the Njanji Seventh Day Adventist Men Organisation (AMO) stepped forward to provide assistance. Njanji SDA Church Pastor George Mwansa shared that the church donated an assortment of items, including a blanket, pair of bed sheets, a cell phone, pillows, and toiletries, to address the immediate needs of the family.

Pastor Mwansa emphasized that the church’s mission includes extending help to the needy in society. The AMO men mobilized K14,000 to purchase the donated items, with part of the funds allocated for meals at the cafeteria to ensure the boy and his father receive adequate nutrition.

Constance Phiri, a nurse attending to Mr. Musukuma at UTH, expressed gratitude for the church’s timely assistance, noting that the donation would significantly support the family during the patient’s treatment. Njanji AMO Leader Albert Chisembe pledged continued support, assuring care for the boy’s school needs and facilitating the presence of an elderly person at Mr. Musukuma’s bedside.

The community response exemplifies the power of collective compassion in alleviating the burdens faced by vulnerable individuals during challenging times.

Refrain from unnecessary travel to curb Cholera spread- Masebo

Chief Editor
-
15
Refrain from unnecessary travel to curb Cholera spread- Masebo

Minister of Health, Silvia Masebo, addressed the public on Sunday evening, urging people to refrain from unnecessary travel between towns to help curb the spread of the highly contagious disease.

Minister Masebo emphasized the need for citizens to avoid traveling, especially to and from Lusaka, as the capital city is considered contaminated. She shared a poignant account from a patient who had traveled from Chikumbi area in Chisamba to Chawama compound, contracting cholera during the visit.

During her visit to the Heroes Stadium treatment center, Minister Masebo received requests for increased manpower, both in nursing care and cleaning staff, to meet the growing needs of the patients. In response, she directed the deployment of 30 support staff and an additional 20 nursing staff to report to the epicenter on Monday morning.

The Heroes Stadium has been transformed into a Cholera Epicenter as an emergency measure to decongest health facilities in response to the escalating cholera cases in Lusaka. The move aims to ensure that adequate care and attention can be provided to those affected by the outbreak.

The total figure of in-patients has now reached 1059, raising concerns about the strain on healthcare resources. Minister Masebo continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to contain the spread of cholera and prevent further loss of life.

The Ministry of Health is urging the public to remain vigilant, adhere to health guidelines, and report any suspected cases promptly to help mitigate the impact of the cholera outbreak.

President Hichilema Reflects on 27 Years of Mayoba Ranch and Encourages National Development

Chief Editor
-
21
President Hichilema Reflects on 27 Years of Mayoba Ranch and Encourages National Development

In a recent visit to the Mayoba Ranch in Zimba District, Southern Zambia, President Hakainde Hichilema and First Lady Mutinta Hichilema reflected on their 27-year journey with the asset. The presidential couple took a moment to appreciate the ranch’s growth since its inception, emphasizing the values of patience, hard work, and dedication that have contributed to personal, family, and national development.

The President shared the sentimental connection they hold with Mayoba Ranch, noting that they began managing the ranch as a young couple. During their visit, the First Lady actively engaged in harvesting wild okra (Delele), a tradition they have enjoyed since the ranch’s establishment.

Expressing admiration for fellow citizens who have embraced self-employment and food cultivation, President Hichilema highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to create a conducive environment for such initiatives. He urged individuals and the nation as a whole to stay focused on their goals while actively participating in constructive debates that contribute to Zambia’s economic stability.

President Hichilema conveyed a message of optimism, emphasizing that Zambia’s journey to economic stability is a gradual process that requires collective effort.

President Hichilema and First Lady Mutinta Hichilema at their Mayoba ranch
President Hichilema and First Lady Mutinta Hichilema at their Mayoba ranch
President Hichilema and First Lady Mutinta Hichilema at their Mayoba ranch
President Hichilema and First Lady Mutinta Hichilema at their Mayoba ranch
President Hichilema at the Mayoba Ranch

 

Cholera Deaths Linked to Delayed Health Facility Reporting

Chief Editor
-
4
Cholera Deaths Linked to Delayed Health Facility Reporting

Health Minister Sylvia Masebo has revealed a concerning trend in Zambia’s cholera outbreak, stating that eighty percent of recorded deaths are attributed to patients reporting to health facilities at a late stage. In response to this alarming statistic, Minister Masebo urged the public to promptly report any suspected cases of diarrhea to their nearest health facilities to prevent further fatalities.

During a press briefing at the National Heroes Stadium, Minister Masebo disclosed that the government is collaborating with various stakeholders, including military wings, to address the cholera outbreak comprehensively. In the past 24 hours, the country has witnessed a significant spike in cases, with 567 new infections and 27 reported deaths.

Of the 27 fatalities, 26 occurred in Lusaka, while one was reported in Kabwe. Minister Masebo emphasized the urgency of reporting and early intervention, highlighting that delayed access to health facilities has been a critical factor in the high mortality rate.

On a slightly positive note, Mrs. Masebo announced that 350 cholera patients have been discharged from the National Heroes Stadium, which serves as the primary cholera treatment center in Lusaka. The minister reiterated the importance of early reporting, swift intervention, and collaboration between the public and health authorities to contain and mitigate the impact of the cholera outbreak.

Chiefs in Luapula pledge land for Community Forestry Management

Chief Editor
-
1
Chiefs in Luapula pledge land for Community Forestry Management

By Jonas Miselo

In a move towards sustainable development and environmental conservation, traditional leaders in Luapula Province are actively engaging with government initiatives to promote Community Forestry Management Groups (CFMGs).

Chief Munkanta of the Chishinga people in Kawambwa district and Chief Mwansakombe of the Ng’umbo-speaking people in Chifunabuli district have both pledged significant portions of their land for community forest management, highlighting the importance of preserving forests for various economic and ecological benefits.

Chief Munkanta, of Kawambwa district, is collaborating with the Ministry of Green Economy, specifically through the Department of Forestry, to ensure the success of Community Forestry Management Groups in his chiefdom.

Recognizing the multifaceted importance of forests, Chief Munkanta emphasizes their potential for carbon trading, beekeeping, and mushroom harvesting.
To protect these valuable resources, he actively supports CFMGs, designating the Kabembe and Lubula Fita community forest management areas in his chiefdom, totaling over 11,200 hectares of land.

“Having met with the community and traditional leadership, we sensitized them on the need to protect our forests. Climate change is causing a lack of rainfall and droughts, so after discussions with the Forestry Department, they welcome the issue of CFMs.
We are advising them not to cut down trees, as the trees are the source of the rain. On this project (CFM) they have brought, there are benefits. There is beekeeping, we can package mushrooms from the forests for business. Because we are lucky enough to receive the rains and not suffer from droughts, hence the need for not indiscriminately cutting down trees, even when it comes to farming,” he said.


Chief Munkanta is not only working with the Department of Forestry but is also dedicated to sensitizing his people about the significance of CFMs. Encouraging responsible resource management, he is open to providing more land for CFMGs as identified by the Department of Forestry and transformative projects like the Transforming Landscapes for Resilience and Development Project (TRALARD).
Mwali Lumpa, a technologist at the Department of Forestry, affirms that collaboration with TRALARD is pivotal to the success of CFMs, aligning efforts to make these community-driven initiatives effective in fostering environmental sustainability and community prosperity stating;
“TRALARD comes in as a funding agency, as the Forestry Department we have degraded areas and we would like to restore those areas, places like Lubula Fita, a forestry reserve area, which people were just using for agriculture purposes but with limited resources we were not able to patrol them but with the coming in of TRALARD and the initiative of CFM we have regained back the strength to communicate with the communities, we are engaging them with the training of how to raise seedlings and livelihood activities such as mushroom growing.
TRALARD is coming in with funds that are going to support the community, the alternative livelihoods, beekeeping, mushroom growing, they have got chickens, they have gardens. This is what is going to keep the community together as they are going to benefit from these livelihood activities in return the pressure that is on the forest’s natural resources is going to be reduced.
The major challenge is that people are engaging in agriculture, charcoal production, and illegal timber harvesting because they want to get something out of it so that they can send their children to school and feed their families but with these alternative livelihood activities the community is given an alternative whilst protecting forestry resources.
Similarly, in Chifunabuli district, Chief Mwansakombe of the Ng’umbo-speaking people is making a significant contribution to climate change mitigation. In response to the urgent need to combat deforestation and promote sustainable land use, Chief Mwansakombe has generously allocated 250 hectares of land in Kafwimbi as a community forest management area.
Expressing his hopes for the area, Chief Mwansakombe envisions not only the conservation of forests but also the utilization of this land for livelihood activities that will bring prosperity to his people. Emphasizing the importance of responsible resource management, he anticipates that the community will actively engage in sustainable practices to safeguard their shared environment.

Chief Mwansakombe extends his gratitude to TRALARD and the Department of Forestry for their engagement, recognizing the collaborative efforts that strengthen the success of community-led environmental initiatives.

Francis Mwape, Senior Extension Assistant at the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment in Chifunabuli district, underscores the economic and conservation benefits inherent in CFMs, aligning with the broader goal of sustainable development.
“There are issues of climate change and if the CFMs are conserved, we can mitigate the cases of droughts and floods,” he said.
Community Forestry Management Areas (CFMAs) or Community Forestry Management Groups (CFMGs) are initiatives that involve local communities in the sustainable management and use of forest resources.

These areas are designated for community-led conservation efforts, emphasizing the active participation of residents in the planning, decision-making, and implementation of forest management practices. The primary goal is to balance the ecological, economic, and social aspects of forest resource utilization.

1...182183184...5,650Page 183 of 5,650

Company

Trending

Categories

© Lusaka Times