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The African Centres for Disease Control (CDC) has deployed a team of 15 Technical Assistant Officers to support Zambia’s fight against cholera. The team will collaborate with the Ministry of Health, Zambia National Public Health Institute, and partners to strengthen the government’s efforts to end the cholera outbreak.
Africa CDC plans to train and deploy 500 community health workers in Lusaka’s hotspot areas. This information is part of a press release provided to the media by Africa CDC’s Acting Head of Communication, Ndahafa Nakwafila, and Africa CDC’s Risk Communication and Community Engagement Officer, Lio Kariko.
Africa CDC aims to enhance the country’s laboratory capacity for diagnostic and genomic sequencing, along with implementing cross-border surveillance measures to curb the spread of cholera. Additionally, the organization will conduct training sessions for fifty healthcare workers on sample collection and referral procedures.
In related developments, Africa CDC and Southern African Development Community (SADC) Member States are convening for an Emergency Ministerial meeting to address the cholera outbreak affecting various countries in the region, including Zimbabwe, Eswatini, South Africa, Mozambique, and Malawi.
The Zambia Institute for Tourism and Hospitality Studies (ZITHS) has announced the hosting of the second edition of the Travel , Hospitality and Tourism Education Summit scheduled for the 15th -17th April 2024 with the expected participation of UN Tourism Secretary General Mr Zurab Pololikashvili.
Zambia in 2023 as a member country of UN Tourism endorsed and begun the implementation of the UN World Tourism Education guidelines and is positioning to be a lead country in industry education.
The announcement was made by the ZITHS Governing Council Chairperson Ms. Mulemwa Moongwa in Madrid, Spain during the ongoing the Madrid International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR) which is the first global meeting point of the year for tourism professionals.
She was making a presentation during the fifth (5th) FITUR Talent Conference that is a platform designed to amplify the value of talent and training in tourism development.
Zambia has now successfully integrated Travel and Tourism as a subject pathway in the revised Zambia Education Curriculum Framework (ZECF).
ZITHS says it will utilise the Education Summit to garner international involvement in developing a best practice model for working with the school system at all levels to address the challenges and opportunities related to developing a workforce pipeline for the sector.
Meanwhile, as part of concerted efforts at growing tourism in the country, the Ministry of Tourism has launched Zambia Investment Guidelines and Tourism Investment Promotion at the ongoing FITUR expo in Madrid, Spain.
While performing the soft launch on January 23, 2024 at the global travel expo, Ministry of Tourism Permanent Secretary Evans Muhanga noted that the launch marked a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards fostering sustainable tourism development.
He acknowledged the support of the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) in facilitating the development of the investment guidelines, saying that the UN agency’s expertise and collaboration have been invaluable in shaping the guidelines, which will serve as a comprehensive roadmap for potential investors looking to contribute to the growth of Zambia’s tourism sector.
Speaking on the rationale for the guidelines, the Permanent Secretary of Zambia’s Ministry of Tourism Mr. Evans Muhanga said that, “The Republic of Zambia has given top priority to advancing the tourism sector in its development agenda, recognizing its potential to diversify the national and reduce reliance on traditional exports.
“In pursuit of this goal, various measures are being implemented, including simplifying procedures for conducting tourism activities, facilitating access to prominent tourism sites, and developing essential infrastructure. These initiatives are designed to attract investment to tourism destinations that are yet to be fully developed”.
He noted that with its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and abundant wildlife, Zambia stands as a beacon of untapped potential in the global tourism arena. Tourism Permanent Secretary Evans Muhanga meets UN Tourism Chief Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili in Madrid, Spain
“Our government is committed to creating a conducive environment that encourages and supports investment in the tourism sector. We firmly believe that strategic partnerships and investments will not only contribute to the economic development of our nation, but will also play a pivotal role in the conservation of our natural and cultural resources,” he assured at the launch.
Mr. Muhanga used the launch event to further invite all participants to look forward to the upcoming presentation, which promises to be an enlightening showcase of Zambia’s tourism endowment and the myriad opportunities available for investment.
“Our nation boasts a wealth of attractions, from the iconic Victoria Falls to the untamed beauty of our national parks, providing a diverse range of possibilities for investors seeking to be part of our tourism success story”.
In his opening remarks at the “Invest in Zambia: Tourism Investment Outlook, Trends and Opportunities” UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said he was excited with the talks on investments, which he described as one of UNWTO’s biggest priorities for tourism this year and beyond.
“The Government of Zambia recognizes the power of our sector to drive growth. I commend their vision to turn Zambia into one of the top five destinations in Sub-Saharan Africa by 2030,” he said.
He explained that in recent years, Africa has enjoyed a significant increase in announced greenfield tourism FDI projects, about 81 projects, totalling around $USD 9billion were announced between 2018 and 2022.Of this, more than $3 billion came from European investors. Zambia Institute for Tourism and Hospitality Studies (ZITHS) Governing Council Chairperson Mulemwa Moongwa in Madrid, Spain
“I have every confidence Zambia can keep growing this number. We are proud to have worked with the Ministry of Tourism to create ‘Tourism Doing Business: Investing in Zambia’. It is a shared success”.
He disclosed that the guide being launched is the joint work of UNWTO, the Ministry of Tourism of Zambia, the Zambia Tourism Agency and the Zambia Development Agency.
“This guide will provide a reference point for investors, rich in information on Zambia’s current investment climate.
“And it shows emerging investment opportunities in its tourism cluster. “As we plan to launch this report in April in Zambia, we invite investors, policymakers, and international partners to join us in this exciting journey”.
Explaining the reasons investors should look to Zambia, Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said they include its stable political environment, its wide market access, and the pro-business reforms carried out by the government.
He also noted that tax relaxation measures, incentives and favorable policy frameworks contribute in making Zambia an investment haven.
All these, he said, can help attract foreign investors to Zambian tourism, coupled with the great work the government in promoting the country to tourists.
“Above all, by celebrating the rich and vibrant culture of Zambia, a hugely diverse country, home to 70 ethno-linguistic groups. It is a country committed to the protection of its natural and cultural resources, with 30% of the land protected as National Park and it is committed to sharing these wonders with the world,” Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said.
He recalled that in recent years, effective marketing has driven recovery with the Yamu Loko campaign showcasing local destinations and reached new audiences.
Hand-in-hand with this, he said that Zambia has expanded its list of visa-exempt travellers for tourism and business purposes.
“Now, visitors from 43 countries, such as Canada, Australia, China, the US, Saudi Arabia, and the majority of EU nations can enter Zambia without a visa. As it grows, as a destination for both tourists and investors, we will be there to support the country,” he promised.
China has handed over equipment to support the capacity building of Zambia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
The equipment, which included 20 laptops and 20 printers, was handed over by Chinese Ambassador to Zambia Du Xiaohui at a ceremony attended by Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary Etambuyu Gundersen and other officials from the Ministry and the Chinese Embassy.
“This is only the first step. We are mobilizing more resources to support your esteemed ministry,” the Chinese ambassador said.
He said China is also offering more training programs to the Zambian Foreign Ministry officials, especially for young diplomats, adding that he hoped that the equipment and training programs will eventually turn into mutual trust, high efficiency, and real results for communication and cooperation between the two countries.
He further noted that China will continue to be a development opportunity for developing countries, including Zambia, adding that China is ready to work with all sectors in Zambia to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state during a meeting last year.
For her part, Foreign Affairs Permanent Secretary Etambuyu Gundersen thanked China for the donation, saying this will facilitate the capacity building of young diplomats in forging economic and diplomatic ties with other countries, including China.
The donation, she said, not only represents the friendly relations between the two countries, but also the spirit of friendliness that China has shown over the past 60 years.
She said the friendly relationship has been demonstrated in such fields as infrastructure, education, and cultural exchanges.
International tech company Yango has announced the launch of the ‘Yango Anthem’ contest that will see some Zambian football fans winning an all-expenses-paid dinner experience to watch the final match.
Through the ‘Yango Anthem’ contest, Zambian fans will showcase their passion for African football through a video set to the catchy ‘Yangoooal’ song done by artists Shado Chris and Paulo Chakal.
The competition offers fans the chance to win tickets for themselves and five friends to watch the finals on February 11th at the Black Bistro Lounge and Cocktail Kitchen at Twin Palm Mall in Lusaka.
Yango Country Manager Ms Kabanda Chewe added that in a unique move to appreciate its drivers, Yango will treat some of its drivers to an all-expenses-paid meal during the AFCON finals.
Ms. Chewe said Yango believes in creating experiences that go beyond transportation saying through these initiatives, Yango aims to celebrate the spirit of football, engage with its valued drivers, and connect with the vibrant community of fans in Zambia.
“In collaboration with artists Shado Chris and Paulo Chakal, Yango is taking its commitment to local talent and football enthusiasts to a whole new level. Recognizing football as a unifying force, Yango has produced the YANGOOOAL anthem, a vibrant song crafted by Shado Chris and Paulo Chakal. The anthem is not only a celebration of African football but also a soundtrack for fans to ride every moment of the championship.”
In conjunction with the anthem, Yango has launched the ‘Yango Anthem’ contest, inviting Zambian fans to showcase their passion for African football through a video set to the catchy ‘Yangoooal’ song.
The competition offers fans the chance to win tickets for themselves and five friends to watch the finals on February 11th at Black Bistro Lounge and Cocktail Kitchen at Twin Palm mall.
Additionally, the winning entry with the most likes by February 3rd will enjoy an all-expenses-paid round table final game feast, courtesy of Yango Zambia.
The Wildlife Crime Prevention (WCP) has been cautioning consumers about illegal game meat business.
Illegal game meat business is common in many parts of Zambia.
WCP Director of Communications Luwi Nguluka says consumers of bush meat help drive the illegal trade and advises that they purchase meat from licensed traders.
Ms. Nguluka announced that WCP is implementing the “This Is Not A Game ” in partnership with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife in a bid to raise awareness among consumers on the effects of consuming illegal game meat.
She spoke to environmental journalists being trained on Biodiversity at ASMARA Hotel In Lusaka.
The training on Biodiversity is an initiative of Internews Network Zambia and the Earth Journalism Network.
The World Court ordered Israel on Friday to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians and do more to help civilians, although it stopped short of ordering a ceasefire as requested by the plaintiff South Africa.
While the ruling denied Palestinian hopes of a binding order to halt the war in Gaza, it represented a legal setback for Israel, which had hoped to throw out a case brought under the genocide convention established in the ashes of the World War Two Holocaust that targeted European Jews.The World Court ordered Israel on Friday to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians and do more to help civilians, although it stopped short of ordering a ceasefire as requested by the plaintiff South Africa.
While the ruling denied Palestinian hopes of a binding order to halt the war in Gaza, it represented a legal setback for Israel, which had hoped to throw out a case brought under the genocide convention established in the ashes of the World War Two Holocaust that targeted European Jews.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) found there was a case to be heard about whether Palestinian rights were being denied in a war it said was causing grievous humanitarian harm. It also called for Palestinian armed groups to release hostages captured in the Oct. 7 attacks on Israel that precipitated the conflict.
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry said the decision was a welcome reminder “no state is above the law”. Senior Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters it would contribute to “isolating the occupation and exposing its crimes in Gaza”.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the ICJ’s decision not to order a ceasefire, but rejected the claim of genocide as “outrageous” and said Israel would continue to defend itself.
Israel had sought to have the case thrown out when South Africa brought it to the ICJ, also known as the World Court, this month under the legal principle that genocide is such a grave crime that all countries are duty-bound to prevent it.
By Staff Writer
In the dynamic landscape of global industries, there are individuals whose vision transcends boundaries, reshaping sectors and leaving an indelible mark on the world. One such visionary is billionaire entrepreneur Prateek Suri, whose consumer electronics company, MASER, is set to revolutionize the mining industry.
Known for his transformative impact on the consumer electronics market, Prateek Suri has set his sights on a new frontier – the mining industry. His strategic acumen and commitment to innovation have propelled MASER into uncharted terrain, where the convergence of technology and mining promises unprecedented advancements.
At the heart of MASER’s foray into mining is the integration of cutting-edge technologies. Suri envisions a mining landscape where artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and advanced robotics converge to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability. This ambitious vision reflects a departure from conventional mining practices, positioning MASER as a trailblazer in the industry’s digital transformation.
One of the key pillars of MASER’s mining revolution is the application of AI in exploration and resource management. Traditional methods of prospecting and geological surveys are time-consuming and often yield incomplete data. MASER’s AI algorithms analyze vast datasets to pinpoint potential mining sites with unprecedented accuracy, reducing exploration time and costs.
Moreover, AI-driven resource management optimizes extraction processes, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Suri’s commitment to sustainability aligns with global efforts to make industries more eco-friendly, positioning MASER as a responsible player in the mining ecosystem.
MASER’s vision extends beyond exploration to the very core of mining operations. Robotics, guided by AI, bring unprecedented precision to excavation, extraction, and transportation processes. Automated mining equipment, equipped with advanced sensors and machine learning capabilities, enhances operational efficiency while minimizing human intervention in hazardous environments.
This robotic precision not only ensures a safer working environment for miners but also significantly improves productivity. The marriage of technology and mining expertise positions MASER as a catalyst for increased output and profitability in the industry.
Safety is a paramount concern in mining, and MASER addresses this by leveraging IoT for real-time monitoring and safety measures. Wearable devices equipped with sensors track miners’ health and environmental conditions, providing immediate alerts in case of emergencies. This proactive approach to safety underscores MASER’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of the workforce.
As MASER’s bold initiatives in the mining sector gain momentum, industry experts anticipate a significant disruption. Prateek Suri’s track record of transforming industries instills confidence in MASER’s ability to challenge conventional norms and lead the way in embracing a technologically advanced future for mining.
The convergence of MASER’s consumer electronics expertise with its mining ambitions creates a unique synergy. The company’s proficiency in developing high-performance hardware, coupled with its strategic investments in AI and robotics, positions it as a holistic solution provider for the mining industry.
In a world where innovation is the driving force behind progress, Prateek Suri’s MASER emerges as a beacon of change in the mining industry. The fusion of cutting-edge technologies, sustainability initiatives, and a commitment to safety underscores MASER’s potential to redefine how we approach mining in the digital era.
As MASER takes bold strides into uncharted territory under Prateek Suri’s leadership, it not only seeks to reshape the mining industry but also sets a precedent for the seamless integration of technology across diverse sectors. The mining landscape is on the cusp of a digital revolution, and with Prateek Suri at the helm, MASER is poised to lead the charge into this exciting new frontier.
Zambia National Service (ZNS) Commander Lt. Gen Maliti Solochi has categorically refuted allegations claiming that ZNS-produced mealie meal contains Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs). Lt. Gen Solochi has called for truthfulness from political figures making such accusations and asserted that the ZNS Eagles’ mealie meal is entirely free from GMO content.
Addressing the media during an inspection of the ZNS Chipepo Fish Project in Chief Chipepo’s Chiefdom, located in Gwembe district, Lt. Gen Solochi challenged anyone propagating the GMO claims to undergo laboratory tests. He emphasized that ZNS is prepared to sponsor the testing process if those making the allegations are unable to fund it themselves.
“The allegations are not true because the ZNS eagles’ mealie meal is not in any way produced with any GMO content,” stated Lt. Gen Solochi, urging those with doubts to seek scientific validation through laboratory tests.
The ZNS commander expressed his commitment to transparency and invited scrutiny to validate the integrity of ZNS-produced mealie meal. He underscored the importance of public trust in the efforts of Zambia National Service and assured that ZNS remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the nation.
Lt. Gen. Solochi emphasized that ZNS is apolitical and dedicated to serving all Zambians regardless of their political affiliations. He affirmed that the primary objective of ZNS is to contribute to the well-being of the nation and its people.
Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima has disclosed a total of 111, 116 candidates have obtained school certificates out of 163 408 candidates who sat for 2023 grade 12 general certificate of education.
Mr Sykalima stated that, of the 163,408 candidates who sat for the examination, 68.03 percent obtained school certificates representing a decrease of 1.26 percentage points from 69.29 percent in 2022.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka, Mr Syakalima stated an addition of over 39,000 candidates registered for the 2023 school certificate examinations increasing the total of registered candidates to 166,501, from 127,289 candidates who registered for the 2022 examination.
The Minister attributed the 30.88 percent increase to the successful implementation of the free education policy, among other interventions by the current administration.
“A total of 48,893 representing 29.92 percent candidates obtained statements of results, while 3,354 candidates failed the examination, and 3,093 candidates were absent from the examination, comprising 1,575 of which 50.92 percent are boys and 49.08 percent are girls,” Mr Syakalima revealed.
And The Minister announced that of the 166,593 registered candidates in 2023, 166,501 were from Zambian schools, while 92 were from St. Jeff College based in South Africa, the second time that ECZ has exported examinations.
Meanwhile, he also disclosed a total of 594 candidates have qualified for the 2023 award of teachers’ diplomas in their areas of specialization including in Early Childhood, Primary and Secondary teaching.
I’m working closely with this operation being run by the Zambia National Ssrvice and ZNS Commander,Lt Gen Maliti Solochi.
The Food Reserve Agency (FRA) has publicly disclosed that they do not have adequate stock of maize and their strategic reserves are less than 3 months supply.
The ZNS is printing on empty bags the Eagle mealie-meal brand here in Lusaka and then sending empty branded bags to South Africa, where they are rebagging and importing GMO milled maize.
The mealie-meal is then imported into Zambia under the pretext that it is onward export to DRC.
Please note that NO tax is being paid on the imports, but the product is being off-loaded onto the Zambian market.
There is a serious violation of tax laws here because no waiver has officially been granted by the Minister of Finance.
At the height of mealie-meal shortage in April 2023. Finance and National Planning Minister Situmbeko Musokotwane signed a statutory instrument to suspend duty on imported mealie-meal from South Africa.
There is no renewal since then.
Also, there is a violation of the Biosafety Act of 2007 as GMOs, or Living Modified Organisms (LMOs), are banned in Zambia.
Further, if the Zambia National Biosafety Authority has authorised the importation of GMO mealie-meal, they are supposed to inform the public.
The printing of the empty bags is taking place at a secluded place in Lusaka West by Shorthorn Printers Ltd. Media institutions can visit and verify this.
The government needs to provide answers. Which vault is ZNS using to cover for these imports? Secretary to Treasury Felix Nkulukusa must tell the nation.
How much is the monthly bill for these imports and how much profit or loss is ZNS making out of this commercial venture.
Can we see the balance sheet of ZNS or its subsidiary firms undertaking this huge national transaction.
In the past, the MMD administration granted tax waivers to private firms like Tambabashila to import mealie-meal commercially and above board.
Can ZRA tell us the tax losses from these irregular/ illegal tax waivers?
Is this the reason someone wanted roadblocks removed so no one checks on the convoy of teucks carrying mealie-meal imports ?
Barrick Lumwana Mine has reaffirmed its commitment to a zero alcohol tolerance policy on the mine site, leading to the dismissal of twenty employees found in violation of this policy throughout the year 2023.
According to Kasonde Musonda, the Mine Human Resource Manager, these dismissals occurred between January and December of the previous year. Musonda emphasized the mine’s unwavering stance on maintaining a work environment free from the influence of alcohol, with any employee testing positive for alcohol being subject to immediate termination.
Providing additional details, Lumwana Mine’s Occupational Health and Safety Manager, Samuel Chileshe, disclosed that out of the twenty dismissed individuals, five were direct employees of Barrick Lumwana Mine, while the remaining fifteen were employees of contracted companies working at the mine.
Chileshe acknowledged that enforcing the zero alcohol policy posed challenges, particularly among employees of mine contractors. He highlighted the need for heightened compliance awareness and efforts to ensure that all individuals working on the mine site adhere to the established safety protocols and regulations.
In response to these developments, Lumwana Sustainability Manager Christopher Mukala emphasized the mine’s ongoing commitment to safety through the “Journey to Zero” program. This initiative aims to create a workplace environment with zero accidents and incidents, aligning with the mine’s dedication to prioritizing the well-being and safety of its workforce.
Pemba village, located in Chief CHIKUWE’s area of Chipangali District, witnessed scenes of confusion and tension during the burial ceremony of Joseph Lungu, a member of the Gulewamkulu traditional dance group who tragically lost his life after being bitten by a black mamba.
The unfortunate incident occurred around 06:00 hours on Wednesday as the Gulewamkulu members were preparing for a performance. The burial, which took place today (Friday, January 26, 2024), was marked by disorder, particularly sparked by the controversial decision of some family members to display the deceased snake to mourners.
As the family attempted to showcase the venomous snake, a dispute erupted among mourners, leading to physical altercations. One family member reportedly resorted to beating those who sought to catch a glimpse of the snake. Elder members present at the ceremony eventually intervened, managing to calm the situation and conclude the burial program.
Joseph Lungu was laid to rest with the snake that took his life , adding an unusual and controversial element to the traditional burial proceedings.
Expressing concern over the increasing frequency of such incidents, Joseph Lungu’s grandfather, Josphat Banda of Mchenga village, called upon local Indunas and headmen to brief Chief Chanje, the caretaker of Chikuwe chiefdom, about the concerning events unfolding in the area. The plea underscores the need for community leaders to address and mitigate potential risks associated with traditional practices, ensuring the safety and well-being of community members.
Jurgen Klopp has dropped a bombshell by announcing his departure from Liverpool at the end of the current season, citing a depletion of energy as the driving factor behind his decision. Originally contracted until the culmination of the 2025/26 season, Klopp has decided to conclude his tenure prematurely.
In a statement issued through the club on Friday, Klopp expressed his love for every aspect of Liverpool, from the city to the supporters, the team, and the staff. Despite this affection, he emphasized that the decision to leave is born out of a realization that his energy levels are waning.
While acknowledging that the news may come as a shock to many, Klopp assured that he had been aware of this development for some time. He explained, “I have no problem now, obviously, I knew it already for longer that I will have to announce it at one point, but I am absolutely fine now.”
Reflecting on the years spent with the club, Klopp stated, “After the years we had together and after all the time we spent together and after all the things we went through together, the respect grew for you, the love grew for you, and the least I owe you is the truth – and that is the truth.”
Liverpool has also confirmed the departure of assistants Pepijn Lijnders and Peter Krawietz, along with elite development coach Vitor Matos, who will all be leaving in the upcoming summer.
In response to the economic challenges being faced by Zambians, Golden Party of Zambia (GPZ) President Jackson Silavwe has put forth a comprehensive set of short and long-term interventions aimed at revitalizing the local economy and ensuring its benefits reach the citizens.
Mr. Silavwe emphasized that the economic hardships endured by Zambians are exacerbated by a perceived lack of effective intervention measures by the New Dawn administration. To address this, he outlined a series of proposals, categorized into short, medium, and long-term measures.
Short-Term Measures:
Freeze the upward adjustment of the monetary policy rate (MPR) and the statutory reserve ratio (SRR) for three years.
Prompt payment of all local domestic suppliers.
Award large contracts to local Zambian companies.
Increase taxes on the mining sector.
Create incentives for local small and medium businesses.
Facilitate easier financial inflow for foreign investments.
Strengthen the Zambia National Service (ZNS) to contribute significantly (50%)to national maize production and mealie meal consumption.
Provide tax, levies, and statutory incentives to local small and medium businesses.
Medium-Term Measures:
Enhance government revenue generated from the mining sector.
Declare sugilite, gold, and lithium as state assets through an act of parliament.
Deposit sugilite and gold in the Bank of Zambia (BOZ) as part of the strategic national reserves.
Gradually minimize and eliminate tax holidays for foreign companies operating in Zambia.
Cap the externalization of profits by foreign mining companies.
Establish a tax haven within Zambia.
Long-Term Measures:
Directly invest USD $1 billion in 10,000 new high-quality startups.
Boost national production through industrialization and value addition.
Enact laws to prohibit the exportation of unprocessed minerals from mining.
Construct government-owned gold and lithium processing plants.
Heavy investment in technology and creative sectors.
Target a substantial reduction in unemployment, from over 8 million job seekers to 2 million, within 10 to 15 years through private sector development.
Mr. Silavwe stressed the urgency of these measures, acknowledging the severe impact of the economic downturn on ordinary citizens and businesses. He called on the New Dawn administration to respond proactively on behalf of the Zambian people, providing essential economic relief. The proposed interventions, if implemented, aim to create a more sustainable and inclusive economy, benefitting the broader population.
The Zambia National Education Coalition (ZANEC) says it respects government’s decision to extend the closure of schools on account of the increasing number of cases of cholera.
ZANEC Executive Director George Hamusunga said the the decision significantly aligns with the public health recommendations from health experts.
Mr Hamusanga however said postponing the school reopening from January 29th to 12th February, will result in serious learning losses which will undermine the education recovery post COVID 19.
“For this reason, it is important that the Council of Ministers utilizes the evidence from the researches conducted by ZANEC with support from the Ministry of Education and UNICEF during the COVID 19 pandemic from 2020 to 2022 to mitigate the impact of the cholera epidemic on education,” Mr. Hamusunga said.
He said is is important for government to put in place adequate measures in the two weeks that schools will be closed to ensure that schools will have all the necessary requisites that will protect learners from cholera when they reopen.
“It was also not prudent to generalize the closure of schools in all parts of the country, the extended closure of schools should have been only in parts of the country that have cholera for example according to Zambia Cholera Situation Report Sitrep No. 23. Provinces like Muchinga, Western and Luapula have only recorded imported cases. Therefore, the closure should have been in the districts that are epicenters, have active cases or are at high risk.”
He added, “there is need for government through the Ministry of Finance to release adequate cholera epidemic response funding to the Ministry of Education to enable them put measures in schools that will ensure the health and safety of learners.”
Mr. Hamusunga observed that the tendency by government to think that investment in the health sector alone can also address the impact of the cholera epidemic on education is misplaced.
“For us, we attribute the failure to open schools to the lack of political will to support the Ministry of Education with the required resources to make our schools conducive for learning amidst the cholera epidemic.”
Mr. Hamusunga said the Ministry of Education must also be supported to deliver Alternative Modes of Education Provision that can help provide continuity of learning at home for children during the closure of schools.
“Unfortunately, although we all agree that the Education Broadcasting Services (EBS) is the panacea to our digital learning solutions in Zambia, the institution is poorly funded to the extent that they have not aired a single education programme for a year now. We would like to call upon government, through the Ministry of Finance to quickly fund EBS so that it can resume its work.”
He said, “ Furthermore, EBS must be given an express license to air education programmes countrywide to mitigate the current learning loss. This investment is critical in the long term for continued learning during calamities or natural disasters.”
He added, the Ministry of Education must start preparing for the re-opening of examination classes now so that in the event that the cases of cholera continue increasing for the next two weeks, learners in examination classes can be given the first priority to go back to school. The Ministry can leverage on its past experience in running examination classes amidst COVID 19 to reduce the loss of learning time among our 2024 examination candidates.”
